10. Digital Platforms for (or Against?) Marginal Areas: Smart Working and Back-to-the-Village Rhetoric in Italy

The chapter examines how digital platforms and remote working are reshaping marginal areas in Italy, particularly through the 'smart-working village' mantra. It delves into the discourses that promote these areas as attractive destinations for digital nomads and remote workers, highlighting the potential for local development. The analysis reveals the tension between tech-led optimism and the risk of corporate gentrification, offering a critical perspective on the 'back-to-the-village' rhetoric. The chapter also explores the emergence of workation experiences, which combine work and vacation, and their impact on marginal areas. By examining specific initiatives and narratives, the chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the complex interplay between technology, tourism, and territorial revitalization in the post-pandemic era.