A New Confederation for Italian Researchers Worldwide
ISSNAF's President was among the 19 presidents of associations of Italian researchers abroad who met in Reggio Calabria on November 4 and 5, 2026, at the invitation of Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Below is the joint press release agreed by the participating associations.
"Italian researchers abroad are a resource for Italy, and the Confederation gives us the chance to act as one community. By sharing what works, mapping where our researchers are, and opening opportunities for young scientists in Italy and abroad, we can turn individual careers into a true two-way bridge with Italy. ISSNAF looks forward to building it together with our sister associations.” — Luca Pani, President, ISSNAF
Joint press release: Confederation of Associations of Italian Researchers in the World
On the occasion of the Conference of Science and Space Attachés and Agricultural Experts, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Antonio Tajani, publicly announced the creation of a Confederation of Associations of Italian Researchers in the World, highlighting its strategic role in strengthening Italy's presence and international outreach.
On November 4 and 5, 2026, at the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, 19 Presidents of Associations of Italian Researchers active in countries around the world met in Reggio Calabria. Three main priorities emerged from the meetings.
Creation of a Confederation of Associations
The participants recognized the need for a common platform, in the form of an informal Confederation of Associations of Italian Researchers in the World, with a small number of spokespersons and coordinators across the different continents.
The Confederation will be a key instrument of science diplomacy and of growth promotion. It will make it possible to reach critical mass, foster the exchange of best practices and develop joint initiatives (for example, awards and support programs for young researchers), in full respect of the prerogatives and autonomy of each association.
It would also be a tool for the professional growth of Italian researchers, fostering transnational networks and the sharing of professional and scientific opportunities, both abroad and in Italy. A central objective would be to make exchanges between Italy and the rest of the world as two-way as possible, drawing on the contribution of Italian researchers abroad to the development of Italy's research system.
The Confederation's scope would cover science in the broadest sense, from the humanities to engineering, from STEM disciplines to the social and life sciences, and would also include education and technology transfer.
Census of Italian researchers abroad
The participants stressed the importance of a census of Italian researchers in their various host countries. More systematic and up-to-date knowledge of this community would be an essential basis for strengthening existing networks, identifying new expertise and opportunities for collaboration, and highlighting the contribution of Italian researchers around the world.
Support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
To ensure the continuity of the activities of the individual associations and of the Confederation, and to secure their lasting impact, direct or indirect support from the Farnesina was considered essential.
This support could include a financial contribution, modeled on the one provided for the Com.It.Es., to ensure the associations' operational continuity and also cover logistical and administrative needs.
It would also be desirable for all Associations to benefit from the active involvement of Embassies, Consulates and Italian Cultural Institutes, which could offer in-kind support, for example by providing spaces for activities, offering logistical assistance and helping coordinate initiatives.
What it means for ISSNAF
For ISSNAF, these priorities reflect work the Foundation has done for years across North America: connecting Italian scientists and scholars through local chapters, recognizing excellence through its awards, and supporting young researchers through mentoring and mobility programs. A Confederation would let this experience be shared with sister associations around the world, and strengthen the bridge between researchers abroad and Italy.
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