Il potenziale demografico come strumento di indagine delle dinamiche di popolazione nelle aree interne siciliane

The phenomenon of depopulation, intensified by economic and geographical dynamics, has severely affected the most remote areas of the world, including Southern Italy. In Sicily, persistent emigration, especially among young people and working-age adults, combined with economic hardship has significantly weakened the local demographic structure, accelerating population aging and declining birth rates. This study investigates the “demographic potential of the labor force” in Sicilian municipalities, using “Potential Years of Life” (PYL) as the core analytical measure. By analyzing PYL and applying the standardized directional Moran’s diagram, the research maps the socioeconomic conditions of Sicily’s inland areas, revealing territorial disparities and the temporal evolution of demographic potential. The results provide a detailed insight into regional demographic dynamics and underscore the need for targeted policies to address marginalization and depopulation. The study argues that a deeper understanding of these processes can support the development of effective strategies for managing inner areas, fostering sustainable and resilient development.