Marco Causi, a prominent figure in Italian politics and economics, passed away on May 8, 2025, at the age of 68, following a heart attack. Born on October 15, 1956, in Palermo, Causi had a distinguished career as a professor, politician, and public servant, making significant contributions to the governance of Rome.
After earning his degree in Statistical and Demographic Sciences from La Sapienza University in Rome, Causi became a professor at Roma Tre University, where he taught in the Faculty of Economics. His academic prowess was matched by his political acumen, which he demonstrated during his tenure in various governmental roles.
From 2001 to 2008, Causi served as the Budget Councilor in the city council under Mayor Walter Veltroni. His work during this period was instrumental in managing the city’s finances and addressing economic challenges. In July 2015, Causi was appointed deputy mayor of Rome by Ignazio Marino, a role he held for just three months before Marino's resignation in October.
During his time in the Italian Parliament from 2008 to 2018, Causi was involved in numerous legislative initiatives, particularly in financial and fiscal matters. He was the rapporteur for key laws, including the legislation that introduced special powers for the defense of strategic industries, known as the 'golden power,' and various decrees related to fiscal federalism.
His commitment to public service extended beyond his official duties; he was also known for his collaborations with the European Commission and the Italian government. Causi's dedication to addressing social inequalities was evident throughout his career, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and constituents alike.
Elly Schlein, the secretary of the Democratic Party (PD), expressed her sorrow over Causi's sudden passing, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Marco Causi, a talented economist and a reference point for many years in the administration and management of the city of Rome, always attentive to inequalities, even when his experience was put to the service of Parliament. His political and civic commitment began as a young man and never knew pauses. We embrace his family and all those who loved him."
Roberto Gualtieri, the mayor of Rome, also shared his condolences, saying, "The news of Marco Causi's passing deeply affects me and saddens me greatly. It is a pain I share with many, in Rome and beyond. Marco was a great man, an intelligent and rigorous economist, but also a capable public servant, serious and always guided by a sense of public interest. As Budget Councilor in the Veltroni administration, he faced complex challenges with competence and civic passion, leaving a concrete and lasting mark. My heartfelt thoughts go to Monique Veaute, his family, and all those who loved him."
Antonio Misiani, responsible for the economy within the PD, remarked, "The sudden passing of Marco Causi strikes me and saddens me. Together we shared many years of parliamentary work on public finance, the tax system, and fiscal federalism. I remember Marco as a gentleman, a teacher, and a parliamentarian of great competence and dedication, a passionate reformer. For many of us, he was a true point of reference."
Goffredo Bettini, who worked alongside Causi during the Veltroni administration, remembered him as "the economist of value. An intelligent, loyal, and tenacious administrator. A friend with whom I experienced one of the most beautiful experiences of my political life, the government of Rome with Walter Veltroni. I am tremendously struck by this news."
Massimiliano Smeriglio, the Culture Councilor, expressed his deep dismay at Causi's passing, highlighting his exemplary qualities as a public servant and his contributions to the management of public finances.
Causi is survived by his wife, Monique Veaute, who is the artistic director of the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto and chairs the Fondazione Romaeuropa. Their son, Antonio, is an accomplished author known for his work in comics and theater. Causi often credited the influence of two significant women in his life—his mother, Marina Marconi Causi, a notable advocate for civil rights and healthcare reform in Sicily, and his grandmother, Jole Bovio Marconi, who directed the archaeological museum in Palermo for many years.
In recognition of his contributions and to honor his memory, a funeral home will be set up on Monday, May 12, 2025, in the Sala della Protomoteca at the Campidoglio, opening at 10 AM with a public remembrance scheduled for 12 PM. This gathering will allow friends, family, and colleagues to pay their respects to a man whose life was dedicated to public service and the betterment of society.
Marco Causi's legacy as a committed public servant, esteemed academic, and advocate for social equity will be remembered by many. His contributions to the political landscape of Rome and Italy at large have left a lasting impact, shaping policies that will influence future generations.
