Employment in the public sector is still regarded as highly desirable by large numbers of Italians and anyone hoping for one of these jobs is expected to take part in a competition or examination (concorso) for the desired post.

In October the region of Lazio announced that it would begin holding a series of examinations for 439 jobs. The first exams for 28 of these positions will be held on 18 November. The vacancies are for six mechanical engineers, seven chemists and 15 hydraulic engineers and so far 2,571 candidates have applied to take the exams. By the time all the 439 vacancies have been filled it is expected that 150,000 people will have taken part in an examination.