Love and Sex in Italy

2023

Computer Files, Websites

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Summary

Italy has the lowest birth rate in Europe. At this rate, Italy’s population could reduce by 16 million over the next 50 years. But despite this, it remains the most romantic country in the world for many. Italy's first female prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, was elected on a platform of a return to traditional family values. Traditionalists fear for the status of the family, and reactionary Catholic campaigners are pushing back on abortion rights. They have considerable influence among doctors, who can refuse to perform an abortion based on conscientious objection. Italy is famous for weddings, and many couples come from around the world to celebrate a fairytale wedding here. Yet, among Italians, less and less people are getting married, and those who do are getting older. Two thirds of young people (18-34) still live at home with their parents, and it is difficult to leave home. These ‘failure to launch’ youngsters are called bamboccioni – ‘big babies’ who refuse to cut the cord. This is even more prevalent in the impoverished south of the country. Without a home of their own or enough money to afford a hotel room, their clandestine trysts are often limited to the back of a car. But Italy remains the most romantic country in the world for many, who flock to Verona to see the balcony where Juliet looked down to see her Romeo. Despite the political divisions and controversy, the enchantment of romantic Italy is as strong as ever.