The global reach of the new Italian associationism Challenges in the exploratory analysis of the phenomenon

This study examines the evolution and impact of Italian associations abroad in the context of recent emigration trends. Italian migration has diversified in profiles, motivations, and paths since 2008, challenging traditional analysis models. Italian associations, which historically supported emigrant integration and cultural identity preservation, now adapt to new emigrant generations and skilled professionals. Using data from various Italian and international sources, the research highlights the associations' roles in legal, professional, and emotional support, particularly through digital technologies. Case studies from Argentina and China illustrate their critical functions during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings emphasize the associations' importance in maintaining cultural ties and providing practical assistance, underscoring their relevance in a globalized world. In recent decades, Italy has witnessed a significant increase in emigration, reflecting social, cultural and economic transformations in an increasingly complex global context. Recently, academic interest in the analysis of Italian emigration has grown, focusing on the quantitative and qualitative changes of the phenomenon. According to the Ministry of Foreign Aafirs and International Cooperation (MAECI), more than six million seven hundred thousand Italian citizens resided abroad on 30 December 2022 (MAECI, 2023: 185). Extensive field research has been conducted to understand the factors and dynamics influencing Italians' migration decisions, going beyond the traditional 'push and pull' model of analysis and considering both the conditions that limit mobility and the incentives for it (Pugliese, 2018). The 'new Italian emigration' which has originated from Italy since 2008, diefrs from previous waves in the variety of migratory profiles, the diversification of motivations and the complexity of individual migration paths. Fully capturing the complexity of