Italy: Legal issues and language difficulties restrict healthcare access for migrants in Southern Italy
For many migrants in Southern Italy, protecting their health remains an uphill battle. The REACH OUT project, along with extensive field research, has revealed how access to care and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections are affected by a complex mix of social, cultural and economic factors.
Economic and legal difficulties, as well as language and cultural barriers, are among the primary obstacles preventing migrants in Southern Italy from accessing healthcare services.
Funded by the European Union and conducted in collaboration with Maastricht University and the University of Padua, the REACH OUT project has uncovered important data* on the health vulnerabilities of migrants in Southern Italy.
The project focuses on the prevention and access to care for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other STIs, identifying real-world barriers that hinder the effective implementation of healthcare interventions in challenging contexts. One of the key findings is the role of Social Determinants of Health (SDH)– such as legal status, income, education level, and discrimination – which significantly impact healthcare access and infection risk.
Economic challenges are a major barrier: 67% of migrants interviewed live below the poverty line, with monthly incomes of less than 630 euros. Moreover, nearly half (48%) lack access to healthcare services, often due to limited awareness of their rights or complications in navigating administrative processes. This problem is especially severe in reception centers and informal settlements like Borgo Mezzanone, where healthcare registration is often absent.
Language and cultural barriers further compound the issue. Difficulties in translating sexual health information into various languages, combined with the stigma sorrounding STIs, create additional challenges in promoting preventive practices. While many migrants are aware of STIs and some prevention methods, shame and religious beliefs often prevent them from adopting protective behaviours.
Mental health data is equally concerning: 61.9% of migrants exhibited signs of psychological distress, while 30% reported having experienced intimate partner violence. Issues such as anxiety and depression are common, often stemming from prolonged stays in Italy without legal stability or social integration. Though these psychological factors do not directly block access to healthcare, they often isolate individuals, making them less likely to seek out healthcare services and support.
This research highlights the crucial need to improve communication about healthcare rights for migrants and to strengthen access to services for more inclusive protection. At INTERSOS, we are committed to using these insights to refine and expand our field initiatives, working closely with communities to build trust, provide targeted healthcare, and support long-term structural changes that enhance the quality of life for migrants in Italy.
*The data referenced here were gathered through three studies conducted by graduate researchers from Maastricht University and the University of Padua: Marije Pot, Martina Bugelli, and Antonia Laß.
