Sassari, Italy – A public forum held Tuesday at the Fondazione di Sardegna explored the critical question of whether political discourse can adequately address the challenges and opportunities of the future. The event, the sixth installment of the “Domucratica” political school, centered on the presentation of the volume “Osare il Futuro” (Dare the Future), published by the Italian Institute for the Future (IIF). The discussion aimed to reframe politics not as a reactive force, but as a proactive capacity for vision and long-term planning.
The meeting comes at a time of significant global uncertainty, marked by multiple crises, rapid technological advancements, and shifting international dynamics. Organizers emphasized the need for a renewed focus on foresight and anticipation, moving beyond simply responding to events and instead actively shaping them. This conversation about futures studies and its application to political strategy is gaining traction as governments and institutions grapple with increasingly complex challenges.
Presenting the volume were Roberto Paura, president of the IIF and director of the magazine “Futuri,” and Adriano Cozzolino, director of research at the Fondazione and a researcher in Political Science and International Relations at the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli.” The discussion also included contributions from Giulia Eremita, Digital Strategy & Innovation BTO; Carla Fundoni, regional councilor and president of the VI Commission; Silvio Lai, a member of the Italian Parliament; and Salvatore Sanna, the assessor for Public Works for the Municipality of Sassari. Marco Calaresu, vice president of the Acli provincial of Sassari and associate professor of Political Science, moderated the event.
A Focus on “Futures Studies” and Proactive Governance
The Italian Institute for the Future (IIF), established in 2013, has positioned itself as a key proponent of “futures studies” in Italy. The organization conducts research, provides training, offers consulting services, and promotes public awareness of megatrends and anticipatory analysis. The IIF is also a member of both the World Futures Studies Federation and the Global Futures Society, demonstrating its commitment to international collaboration in this field. The Fondazione di Sardegna, hosting the event, similarly emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and strategic foresight.
Paura, in his presentation, highlighted the need to move beyond short-term political cycles and embrace a more holistic, long-term perspective. He argued that effective governance requires an understanding of emerging trends and the ability to anticipate potential disruptions. Cozzolino echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of integrating foresight methodologies into public administration, and policymaking. He noted that processes of foresight can help administrations navigate complex challenges like globalization and technological change.
Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
The participation of regional and national political figures – Fundoni, Lai, and Sanna – underscored the event’s aim to translate theoretical concepts into practical applications. Discussions focused on how the principles of futures studies could inform policy decisions in areas such as digital strategy, regional development, and public works. Eremita’s expertise in digital innovation brought a crucial perspective on the transformative power of technology and its implications for governance.
The dialogue wasn’t simply academic. Participants explored concrete examples of how anticipatory thinking could be applied to address specific challenges facing Sardinia and Italy as a whole. This included discussions on sustainable development, economic diversification, and the impact of demographic shifts. The event aimed to foster a collaborative environment where policymakers, researchers, and practitioners could exchange ideas and identify opportunities for innovation.
The “Domucratica” School and Civic Engagement
The event is part of a broader initiative, the “Domucratica” political school, designed to provide a platform for ongoing dialogue and education on critical contemporary issues. Organizers stated that the school aims to offer the city, and particularly younger generations, a stable space for in-depth analysis, discussion, and training. The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, reflecting the complex challenges facing society today.
The meeting was streamed live on the social media channels of the ACLI of Sassari, extending its reach beyond those physically present. The open-access format, with free admission, further emphasized the organizers’ commitment to inclusivity and civic engagement. The event’s success suggests a growing appetite for more forward-looking and strategic political discourse.
Looking ahead, the “Domucratica” school plans to continue its series of public forums, with future events focusing on topics such as climate change, social inequality, and the future of work. The organizers hope to build on the momentum generated by this event and foster a more informed and engaged citizenry capable of shaping a more sustainable and equitable future. Further information on upcoming events can be found on the ACLI of Sassari website.
What do you think about the role of foresight in political decision-making? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with others who might be interested in this important conversation.
