Abstract

The article focuses on the combination of two important processes regarding the demographic structure of Italian contemporary population: low fertility rates and growing immigration. In particular, it discusses the Dalla Zuanna hypothesis of "population replacement", considering, in the first place, Istat data on fertility of Italian and immigrant women and, secondarily, proposing a critical review of studies and theories on immigration and fertility. The article thus aims at examining the international debate on this specific issue and suggesting a possible research agenda.