Why Italian Dads Are Taking Over Childcare Online

In Milan suburbs, Diego Di Franco stands out—not because he’s a father, but because he posts daily updates about parenting online. While Italy’s parliament rejected a bill to match maternity and paternity leave in February, fathers like him are quietly reshaping fatherhood norms through social media. The country’s gender imbalance in care work remains extreme: five months of maternity leave versus ten days for fathers. Yet despite resistance from lawmakers who claim equal leave is too costly, digital spaces are pushing for change. Italy ranks near the bottom in the EU for women’s employment at 53%, tied to Europe’s largest gender pay gap. Many women drop out of the workforce after having children, with nearly 70% of Italy’s resignations voluntary. Experts argue this hurts both families and the economy. Italy’s shrinking population only deepens the crisis, making policies that support working mothers essential.Opposition leaders called the failed bill a "cultural shift" needed to balance work and family life. But the ruling party cited budget concerns, even though studies in Spain show mandatory paternity leave boosts career equality. In Italy, firms offering extra leave see higher uptake, especially among younger men. Still, government proposals stay stuck in debate. Meanwhile, Di Franco’s online presence proves change is possible. He’s one of many "dad influencers" challenging old stereotypes, with 85% of his followers women seeking relationship advice. Case in point: his wife, Raffaella, credits his hands-on parenting for her career advances. Yet this remains rare in Italy, where female part-time work is still common. Sociologists note these influencers are both reflecting and accelerating a slow cultural shift. The real test? Whether traditional politics will catch up—or if social media will keep forcing the issue.