Italy Cuts School Staff as Falling Birthrate Deepens Demographic Crisis

Italy’s government is planning significant cuts to teachers and non-teaching staff as the country’s declining birthrate reduces student enrolment. Under the draft 2027 budget, staffing levels will be reduced by 4,925 teachers and 2,049 support staff from the 2027-2028 academic year. The government will also introduce a 75% limit on hiring replacements for retiring public sector employees, aiming to save €336 million over two years.

Italy’s student population in primary and secondary schools has dropped from 8.4 million in 2017-2018 to 7.7 million in 2024-2025, according to official data. The proposed cuts have triggered criticism from teachers’ unions, school principals and opposition parties, who argue that declining enrolment should be an opportunity to reduce class sizes and improve education quality rather than weaken the public school system. The measures also follow earlier staffing reductions introduced under the 2025 budget.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government is facing financial pressure due to European Union deficit limits, rising energy costs and a slow-growing economy. Meanwhile, protests over the cost-of-living crisis have intensified across Italy, with students demanding greater investment in schools and universities. Critics warn that further staffing reductions could worsen existing challenges in the country’s public education system.

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