FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR | NIAF
202-939-3116 (o)
gmileti@niaf.org

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(New York City, New York – August 9, 2023)– The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is proud to announce its official recognition as a non-governmental organization (NGO) with Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This status allows NIAF to actively engage with ECOSOC and various UN bodies as a civil society organization. The prestigious acknowledgment marks a significant milestone in NIAF’s commitment to promoting Italian heritage, culture, and fostering positive change globally.

“We are immensely honored to be granted consultative status by the United Nations ECOSOC. This distinction is a testament to NIAF’s ongoing dedication to empowering the Italian American community and engaging in impactful international projects that support social and cultural growth,” said Robert E. Carlucci, Chairman of NIAF. “As we embark on this new chapter, we look forward to joining with the United Nations’ worldwide network to champion important causes and shape constructive growth for all. We also look forward to amplifying the valuable work of the many UN Agencies headquartered in Italy including The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to name but a few.”

Special Consultative Status grants NIAF access to ECOSOC proceedings and mechanisms. NIAF representatives may attend meetings, speak at events, provide expert testimony, insights and collaborate on projects that advance ECOSOC’s mission, all while amplifying NIAF’s voice on an international platform. Moreover, it will strengthen NIAF’s role as a global advocate for cultural diversity and will highlight issues affecting Italian Americans and share community solutions to global challenges.

“This new status allows us to be an even stronger voice for the Italian American community and liaison between the UN and Italian diaspora groups seeking cross-cultural dialogue,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “We are excited to bring our unique perspective to the important work of the UN, drawing on the values, traditions and strong ethnic pride of Italian Americans.”

Over the years, NIAF has established itself as the leading Italian American organization committed to preserving and promoting Italian heritage, supporting education, promoting cultural exchange both nationally and internationally, and enhancing ties between the United States and Italy.

NIAF thanks ECOSOC member states for recognizing NIAF’s decades of work championing the Italian American community and strengthening the U.S.— Italy alliance. We look forward to this new chapter of engagement with the UN for the benefit of Italian Americans and all communities.

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About NIAF
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.

About ECOSOC
The Economic and Social Council is at the heart of the United Nations system to advance the three dimensions of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental. It is the central platform for fostering debate and innovative thinking, forging consensus on ways forward, and coordinating efforts to achieve internationally agreed goals. It is also responsible for the follow-up to major UN conferences and summits. The UN Charter established ECOSOC in 1945 as one of the six main organs of the United Nations.