Untapped Potential: Gender and Regional Disparities in Working Life Expectancy and its Trends in Italy

Abstract

As societies globally cope with the challenges of an aging population, pension systems face increasing strain. Italy, one of Europe’s largest economies and oldest populations, provides a compelling case for examining the complex interplay between gender and regional disparities in the context of extended working lives. The study of Working Life Expectancy across Italian regions from 2000 to 2016 reveals a generally upward trend and shows the complex dynamics of the aging workforce. While the overall trend in working life expectancy is positive, gender differences persist. Despite women experienced a substantial increase in employment, gender gaps remain large, particularly in the southern regions. Further examination of retirement trends underscores the complex relationship between gender, region, and the duration of retirement. The study concludes that policy efforts aimed at guaranteeing the financial viability of the pension system should focus not only on increasing the retirement age but also investing in employment opportunities, particularly for women and individuals living in the southern regions. Considering the diverse employment trajectories of individuals, especially in relation to gender and regional differences, is essential for ensuring the effectiveness and fairness of initiatives addressing population aging. Investing in women’s employment would help promote gender equality and reduce the underutilization of human capital.