The seminar, divided into three sessions, studied the main institutional economic and social causes holding back adequate growth in the South and its ability to reach the levels of growth seen in the North.
The first session, dedicated to the institutional prospects of federalism, discussed the need to complete institutional reorganization. This should be done by redefining state and regional jurisdiction, introducing a supremacy clause, creating a Federal Senate, and recognizing a protected constitutional space for Italy’s autonomously governed local provinces. In this context, fiscal federalism – not an instrument to reward the richest regions, but the most capable of increasing efficiency vis-à-vis standard costs and correct operation of the democratic application – is essential.
The second session was centered on the mechanisms of public-private collaboration. It was pointed out that the crisis requires a reduction in many public investments. From this viewpoint, the State must take on the role of coordinator and guarantor for initiatives carried out by the Deposits and Loans Fund as well as initiatives of private funds, such as those for investments in infrastructures and to support SMEs. This requires that banks take a major role to support economic development both in Southern Italy and throughout the country.
The third session was dedicated to the South’s economic calling. Participants underscored the need to defend and develop industry and manufacturing as well as the traditional tourist and cultural services. This can be done by introducing innovations in management and technology. It is, however, essential that aid mechanisms that distort the political and economic process be abandoned.