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Italy's 'VIP' culture blocks young professionals from leadership roles

opinion-review · 2026-04-27

An opinion piece on Artribune criticizes Italy's systemic accumulation of multiple high-profile positions by a small group of well-known individuals, often over 60, who serve as 'testimonials' for visibility rather than competence. This leaves qualified young professionals unable to enter the workforce or gain leadership experience. The author argues that these 'VIPs' lack time to fulfill their responsibilities, while competent individuals remain in the middle, and the country suffers as a result. The article references examples from academia, politics, journalism, and corporate boards. It warns that this system prevents youth from emerging, prevents VIPs from doing actual work, and denies young people the chance to make mistakes and gain experience. The piece is published in Artribune Magazine #57 and written by Stefano Monti, partner at Monti&Taft.

Key facts

  • Italy's accumulation of multiple roles by a few VIPs blocks youth from leadership positions.
  • VIPs are often over 60 and serve as testimonials for visibility, not competence.
  • Qualified young professionals are denied nominations and experience.
  • The system prevents VIPs from fulfilling their responsibilities due to time constraints.
  • Competent individuals are caught between 'grand professors' and 'influencers'.
  • The article is published in Artribune Magazine #57.
  • Author Stefano Monti is a partner at Monti&Taft.
  • The piece warns of dangerous consequences for Italy's future.

Entities

Artists

  • Stefano Monti

Institutions

  • Artribune
  • Monti&Taft

Locations

  • Italy

Sources