Supported by the European Commission, the OECD Rethinking Regional Attractiveness programme helps policy makers understand how their regions can better attract talent, investors, and visitors in today’s changing world.
The regional case studies conducted by the OECD under this programme provide a snapshot of participating regions’ attractiveness profile, along with policy and multi-level governance considerations to guide participants in building upon each other’s best practices.
Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, faces significant challenges due to population decline, with high youth unemployment and outmigration draining its workforce. Strong territorial disparities between its coastal areas and more marginalised inland regions further exacerbate these challenges, undermining the island’s economic competitiveness and regional attractiveness to investors, talent, and visitors. These issues are compounded by connectivity barriers and limited access to healthcare and education. Yet Sardinia's rich cultural and natural capital, vibrant tourism sector, and potential for innovation offer promising opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth. Addressing regional inequalities, enhancing infrastructure, and improving resident well-being, are key to help the island break out its talent development trap, boost economic competitiveness, and become more attractive to investors and talent on the national and EU stages
