Forthcoming policy developments

On February 26, 2025, the Culture Decree became law (Law 16/2025). The first pillar of the measure is the Olivetti Plan for Culture, designed to promote culture as a common good, making it more accessible and inclusive. Its main objectives include:

• Cultural regeneration in peripheral and disadvantaged areas, with special attention to areas affected by low birth rates and urban decay;
• Support for publishing and local bookstores, with a focus on historical bookstores and those of cultural significance;
• Promotion of early childhood reading and enhancement of school libraries and children's bookstores;
• Support for youth cultural production;
• Valorization of live performances, cinema, and the audiovisual sector;
• Digitization of the book heritage and digital literacy programs through libraries.

The law also introduces new funding to encourage young people (up to 35 years old) to open bookstores, prioritizing rural and disadvantaged areas.

The implementation of the Olivetti Plan for Culture will be coordinated by the cabinet office of the Ministry of Culture.

The second pillar of the law focuses on cultural cooperation with Africa and the wider Mediterranean region. In this context, a dedicated task force has been established within the Ministry of Economy and Finance to promote cultural initiatives in coordination with the Steering Committee of the Mattei Plan.

Ongoing debates

At the moment, there are no ongoing debates.