Italia-Croatia

Conceptual and analytical input

Through scientific input, the partners developed a methodology to collect data and information on outward migration and its impact on demographic changes within their territories. To ensure a consistent analysis that considered the same aspects in both Italy and Croatia, the partners first created a joint methodology, designed to be replicable in other contexts, as outlined in the document "Shared methods for comparable analysis of outmigration in project regions." This methodology establishes the foundation for the efficient collection of comparable and relevant data in the project areas, supporting a thorough understanding and assessment of the issue. Moreover, it is intended to be replicable in other territories, fostering the use of a standardized approach for broader applicability.

The document "Input paper on outmigration and related demographic change in IT-HR area and partners' territories," compiled by the partners, offers a comprehensive overview of the analysis conducted in their respective territories, applying the outlined methodology.

Analysing Outmigration and Its Local Contributing Factors

The state of the art on the outward migration of young educated people in the partners' regions has been essential for understanding the partners' priorities in addressing this issue. The project partners applied shared practices and methodologies to capture the situation of outward migration, enabling comparisons among regions despite differing territorial conditions. The analysis, presented in the document below, includes both quantitative and qualitative data to explore the characteristics of brain drain comprehensively in Croatia, Molise and Puglia. 

Collaborative Evaluation of Measures to Combat Depopulation

Under the supervision of the Municipality of San Michele Salentino, an analysis was conducted on the measures currently implemented in the project partners' territories by key stakeholders to address, reduce, and potentially reverse outward migration trends. Each partner compiled a list of measures, projects, and policies in effect within their respective territories, accompanied by a brief assessment of their effectiveness.

The attached document, "Survey on Integrated Measures Put in Place to Address Outward Migration," outlines the methodology used to conduct this analysis. It includes a survey template that each partner successfully completed by engaging with their respective stakeholders and populating it with detailed information about the identified measures.

The document "Gaps Paper on Policies to Contrast Outmigration" provides a final evaluation of the measures currently in place in each partner's territory. It aims to offer a concise yet comprehensive overview of these measures, outlining their strengths and weaknesses and promoting improvements through stakeholder engagement and policy refinement.

Collaborative Design and Evaluation of Adaptation Strategies

The joint definition of a shared set of sectoral measures, tailored to the local contexts of the partner areas, is essential to address the outward migration of young educated people in an integrated manner. Through a cross-border peer review process and the direct involvement of target groups, the goal is to develop concrete and replicable strategies, grounded in a deep understanding of the multidimensional factors driving the phenomenon. This activity represents a strategic step toward building shared territorial strategies and preparing effective action plans, ensuring the adoption of policies that truly respond to the needs of local communities. 

Local Actions Plans and Partners' commitment

The development of Local Action Plans represents a key step in transforming integrated strategies into concrete measures, tailored to the specific contexts of each partner area. Formally approved by the partner administrations, consolidating the local plans into a coherent cross-border framework, these plans define clear objectives, actions, responsibilities, timelines, and resources, ensuring their practical feasibility and impact. 

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the project results, each municipality establish a permanent forum - a participatory platform bringing together youth, institutions, and local stakeholders to accompany, adapt, and reinforce the strategies over time.