SKILLS4JUSTICE WP4 “Surveying Skilled Migrant Workers in the Countries of Destination and Origin” National Report – Italy

This report presents the Italian findings of Work Package 4 (WP4) within the Horizon Europe project SKILLS4JUSTICE – Skill Partnerships for Sustainable and Just Migration Patterns. The study investigates the relationship between migration trajectories, skills formation, labour market integration, and perceptions of social justice among migrant workers residing in Italy. Adopting a mixed-methods design, the research combines quantitative data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 93 migrant workers with qualitative evidence from 33 semi-structured interviews conducted across different Italian regions and economic sectors. Particular attention is devoted to the experiences of participants involved in structured migration pathways, including the Italy–Egypt Skill Partnership, compared with migrants who followed more conventional migration routes. Findings highlight the central role of employment opportunities, family aspirations, and educational advancement in shaping migration decisions. While many participants reported positive experiences regarding access to work and professional development, significant challenges remain in the recognition of qualifications, language acquisition, skills matching, and career progression. Evidence of overqualification, de-skilling, and labour market segmentation emerged across several sectors. At the same time, perceptions of workplace fairness and social inclusion were generally positive, although experiences of discrimination, xenophobia, and unequal opportunities continue to affect a portion of respondents. The report concludes that effective skills partnerships, accessible training opportunities, transparent qualification recognition procedures, and inclusive labour market policies are essential for promoting sustainable migration pathways and advancing social justice for migrant workers in Italy.