Valletta, Malta · Voluntary Organisation VO/0346
Auxilio gentium extra nostra limina

In aid of peoples, beyond our borders.

Since 1972 the Diplomatic Correspondents have brought together professionals, entrepreneurs and cultural figures from many countries to defend human rights, deliver humanitarian aid and build cooperation through public diplomacy.

1972
Founded in Malta
1983
Legally constituted by public act
2006
Accreditation at the European Parliament, Brussels
2010
Enrolled Voluntary Organisation in Malta, VO/0346
The organisation

Who we are

The International Organization for Diplomatic Relations, better known as “Correspondants Diplomatiques” brings together individuals from around the world who share common interests and objectives.

More about who we are
Our work

Four commitments every Correspondent shares.

A non-profit, non-governmental organisation of volunteers. All surplus goes back into the work.

Human rights

Promoting the rights set out in the Universal Declaration of 1948, and bringing citizens' concerns to governments.

Human rights programme

Humanitarian aid

Fund-raising campaigns and direct interventions, from first-necessity support to health, education and work.

Support activities

Public diplomacy

Meetings, ceremonies and conventions that put people and institutions from different countries in the same room.

Conventions and ceremonies

Ethical exchange

Economic and cultural exchange without a predatory attitude: enterprise that leaves work and dignity where it lands.

International cooperation
Being a Correspondent

“We do well by doing good to one another.”

A Diplomatic Correspondent is a professional or entrepreneur who, through their own activity, encourages solidarity and gives others an opportunity to grow. Everything is pursued through diplomacy: prudence, balance, discretion and tact.

Members meet at seminars, workshops and conventions, and work alongside representatives of institutions in many countries.

Conventions and ceremonies

Where the organisation meets.

24–27 Sept 2026
Latest convention

Rome Convention & Grand Gala

Rome, Italy. Welcome Dinner on 25 September and Grand Gala Dinner on 26 September, with the annual ceremony and nominations.

Next convention
Dates and city to be announced
Members register
Rome, Italy
26–31 March 2025 · Conference, nominations and gala
Bucharest, Romania
30 November – 4 December 2022
Awarded since 1993

International Mediterranean Award

Conferred by the organisation on people whose work in public life, science and the arts has served dialogue between peoples.

Excellency Woman award
Prof. Anton Buttigieg
1993
Prof. Anton Buttigieg
President of the Republic of Malta
Eugenio Barresi Di Barrese
1994
Eugenio Barresi Di Barrese
Consul of Malta in Catania
Prof. Mario Sansone
1995
Prof. Mario Sansone
Historian and philosopher
Marcel Metefara
2000
Marcel Metefara
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Central African Republic
Gigi D'Alessio
Gigi D'Alessio
Singer and composer
Antonio Giuliani
Antonio Giuliani
Show and cabaret
Giovanni Cavallaro
Giovanni Cavallaro
Second Lieutenant, Carabinieri
Pietro Petrucci
Pietro Petrucci
Corporal Major, Italian Army
Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli
Singer and composer
Antonio De Curtis “Totò”
Antonio De Curtis “Totò”
Actor
Prof. Guido de Marco
Prof. Guido de Marco
President Emeritus of Malta
Gen. Antonino Iaria
Gen. Antonino Iaria
Lieutenant General
Mons. Vincenzo Di Muro
Mons. Vincenzo Di Muro
Prelate of Honour of His Holiness
Vocal Song
Vocal Song
Popular Gregorian music
Tony Esposito
Tony Esposito
Singer and composer
Alex Sceberras Trigona
Alex Sceberras Trigona
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malta
Gerard Otmar Hiwat
Gerard Otmar Hiwat
Ambassador of Suriname to Italy
Michele Placido
Michele Placido
Actor, screenwriter and director
Bruno Prestagiovanni
Bruno Prestagiovanni
Vice-President of the Lazio Regional Council
Alessandro De Franciscis
Alessandro De Franciscis
President of the Province of Caserta
Umberto Guidoni
Umberto Guidoni
Astronaut and astrophysicist
Stefano D'Orazio
Stefano D'Orazio
Musician, drummer of Pooh
The journal

Correspondant Diplomatique Magazine

The organisation's own record of its conventions, projects and people, published since 2006. Every issue is free to read online.

All issues
For members

My IODR, the members' area.

One sign-in for every Correspondent: find colleagues in other countries, follow your delegation, register for conventions and keep your membership in order.

Sign in to My IODR
Member directorySearch Correspondents by country, delegation and profession.
ForumAnnouncements from the Governor and discussion within each delegation.
Event registrationReserve places for conventions, welcome dinners and galas.
Documents and duesForms, dress codes and programmes, and the annual fee paid by bank transfer.

Help others; it is like helping ourselves.

Membership is by application and decided by the Steering Committee. There is no requirement to join beyond transparency, morality and integrity.

Our work

Support activities

Donations and visits in support of the Malta Community Chest Fund and of local causes.

6 May 2013

Visit to the Presidential Residence

A delegation of Diplomatic Correspondents visited the Presidential Residence of the Republic of Malta, where President George Abela received a donation from the organisation in support of the Malta Community Chest Fund. Those taking part included the actress Barbara Bouchet, Ramona Badescu, Barbara Di Palma of RAI 1's “La vita in diretta”, Don Santino Spartà and the Brazilian Consul to Malta, G.M. Louis Scerri Montaldo, who conferred on the President the honour of Knight of Grand Cross for charitable activities.

Watch the video on YouTube
Selection of photographs · 5 / 56
28 July 2016

Charity dinner at San Anton Palace

At San Anton Palace, a delegation of Diplomatic Correspondents supported the Malta Community Chest Fund at a charity dinner hosted by the President of Malta, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca. Those taking part included the actor and singer Francesco Salvi, General Pappalardo of the Carabinieri, the world boxing champion Patrizio Oliva and the Hon. Alfonso Pecoraro Scanio, who thanked the President for the care taken to preserve nature in such a setting. Afterwards the President invited the guests to the Antonello Venditti concert in Floriana.

Selection of photographs · 5 / 73
3 December 2016

Christmas greetings with the President of Malta

Support for the Malta Community Chest Fund on the occasion of the exchange of Christmas greetings with the President of Malta, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca. On 4 December the delegation visited the President's Office at the Presidential Palace in Valletta.

Selection of photographs · 5 / 132
2 December 2017

Support for the children of Żejtun

Financial support for the children of Żejtun on the occasion of the exchange of Christmas greetings. The event was organised with the President of Żejtun F.C., Dr Joseph Gauci, and attended by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Malta, Carmelo Abela, the Minister for Justice, Owen Bonnici, the Hon. Dr Clifton Grima, Parliamentary Secretary for Youths, Sports and Voluntary Organisations, and an American delegation.

Selection of photographs · 5 / 33
Our work

Human rights

The organisation promotes the rights set out in the Universal Declaration of 1948. This page brings together the international texts that guide its work, each available in several languages.

Choose your language

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948.

Moratorium on the death penalty

The Diplomatic Correspondents against the death penalty

On 15 November 2007 the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution calling for a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, by 99 votes to 52 with 33 abstentions. The General Assembly adopted it on 18 December 2007 as resolution 62/149, by 104 votes to 54 with 29 abstentions.

On 6 and 7 June 2008 the organisation held an international conference on the subject at the Royal Palace of Caserta: “The death penalty: between the ethics of life and the authority of the State”.

  • Resolution 62/149: Moratorium on the use of the death penalty
    United Nations General Assembly, 18 December 2007
  • General Assembly adopts the moratorium resolution
    United Nations press release, 18 December 2007
  • Third Committee approves the draft resolution
    United Nations press release, 15 November 2007
  • How each state voted in the Third Committee
    Voting record by country

Rights of the child, equality and non-discrimination

  • Convention on the Rights of the Child
    United Nations General Assembly, 20 November 1989
  • Equality between women and men
    European Union law, EUR-Lex
  • The principle of non-discrimination
    European Union law, EUR-Lex

Diplomatic and consular law

The Vienna Conventions of 1961 and 1963 set out the immunities and privileges on which diplomatic and consular relations rest.

  • Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations
    Vienna, 18 April 1961
    Français中文
  • Vienna Convention on Consular Relations
    Vienna, 24 April 1963
    Français中文
  • Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act
    Laws of Malta, Chapter 191

Links to other websites open in a new tab.

The organisation

Who we are

The International Organization for Diplomatic Relations, better known as “Correspondants Diplomatiques” brings together individuals from around the world who share common interests and objectives.

History and purpose

The “Correspondants Diplomatiques” Organization was founded in Malta in 1972 and formally constituted by public deed in 1983.

Its purpose is to promote the human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in Paris in 1948, and to foster economic and cultural exchanges between individuals and institutions.

The Organization brings together diplomats, professionals, entrepreneurs, political figures and cultural leaders from different countries. Through meetings, ceremonies and events held in Malta and abroad, it has facilitated professional cooperation, commercial exchanges and the development of joint initiatives.

Alongside its founding philanthropic mission of assistance and social protection, the Organization supports cooperation in industry, commerce and the craft sector. It promotes productive activity through cultural and business relationships with international bodies and institutions, providing a forum where participants can exchange ideas, develop projects and establish partnerships.

Solidarity, welfare and social protection remain central to its mission. Humanitarian projects are implemented through donations and direct action.

The Organization believes that lasting progress in developing regions requires more than isolated acts of assistance. While support for essential needs remains vital, it must be accompanied by coordinated initiatives that provide people with the opportunities and resources to build a stable future. Education, cultural development and access to employment are fundamental to this approach, with work recognised as a primary source of individual dignity.

This ethical vision lies at the heart of the Diplomatic Correspondents’ identity. Through their professional and entrepreneurial activities, members promote solidarity and help others gain opportunities for personal development, independence and meaningful employment.

The Organization is proud to bring together individuals with distinguished cultural, humanitarian, scientific and professional backgrounds, selected according to very rigorous criteria.

Its guiding principle, “Helping others means helping ourselves,” expresses a commitment to identifying international business opportunities that benefit both participating enterprises and local communities. Such cooperation should respect local needs and resources, avoiding exploitative practices.

The aim is to build a community of professionals and entrepreneurs who support balanced development founded on solidarity. Responsible business initiatives can generate productive enterprises while improving living standards through employment and humanitarian action.

A strong sense of solidarity and a commitment to humanitarian initiatives have always characterised the Diplomatic Correspondents. For members of the Organization, these qualities are inseparable from professional and entrepreneurial values.

Adherence to its ethical principles therefore entails a concrete commitment to improving living conditions in developing countries.

Registrations and recognition

  • 2006The Organization obtained accreditation as a lobbyist at the European Parliament in Brussels, enabling it to collaborate with relevant bodies and provide expert advice on European Union funding opportunities for European businesses.
  • 2007The Organization is registered with the Office of the Commissioner for Data Protection (DPA) of the Republic of Malta, by notification under the Data Protection Act. Ref. No. 9335 - 12.10.2007.
  • 2010The Organization obtained recognition and accreditation in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, United States, as an NGO nonprofit organization/public charity, under the legal references stated in its registration documentation: Chapter 156D, Section 15.03; 950 CMR 113.48; Identification No. 0010328.
  • 2010The Organization has enrolled with the Commissioner for NGOs as a Voluntary Organization pursuant to Article 13 of the Voluntary Organisations Act. Ministry for Social Policy – Malta, Article 31 - Act No. XXII of 2007, Decree No. VO/0346 dated 15 January 2010.
  • 2015The Organization has registered with the United Nations DESA Civil Society Database (Department of Economic and Social Affairs) on 13.04.2015.
  • 2026The Organization has registered as an NGO with the Government of India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, I.D. no. 474360 - 10.04.2026.

What the organisation does

It carries out service and humanitarian work, brings citizens' concerns to governments, advocates and monitors policies, and encourages political participation by providing information. Its work is organised around specific issues such as human rights, the environment and health. It provides analysis and expertise, serves as an early-warning mechanism, and helps monitor and implement international agreements. It relies primarily on volunteers. Funding comes from membership dues and donations.

Ten facts about the organisation

  1. Non-governmentalNeither part of government nor of the private sector. There is no focus on power over people or on personal gain.
  2. HumanitarianPeople and the community are the priority. The mission is to relieve suffering and protect people.
  3. InternationalThe organisation works at international level to better the world and help the less fortunate.
  4. Non-profitAll surplus goes back into the organisation's work. It is never a profit for owners, staff or donors.
  5. VoluntaryMembers volunteer to aid development. There is no obligation to join, only the requirements of transparency, morality and integrity.
  6. Open to every donorAnyone can donate. Every donor is appreciated and helps the cause, whatever the size of the gift.
  7. Wide-rangingHealthcare, livelihoods, poverty, child mortality, education, emergency response, water and sanitation, and other needs of the people.
  8. UnarmedNo armed forces. Weapons are not allowed in offices or at project sites, and the organisation does not use armed or military escorts or exchange information with the military.
  9. PeacefulThe organisation does not support violence or conflict. It values peace, tolerance and people.
  10. Rights-basedThe Diplomatic Correspondents believe in the rights of the people and work to give those in need access to basic human rights. Development is not a gift or a privilege.
Being a Correspondent

The main principle is humanity.

A Diplomatic Correspondent practises a particular way of life every day. It is not a fad or a trend, but a way of living according to social, moral and spiritual values.

Correspondents seek moral and cultural growth through opportunities to meet and exchange views, keeping their personal and professional commitments consistently high.

They are messengers of an inclusive globalisation that promotes the internationalisation of business together with cooperation and solidarity, without the predatory attitude that has too often marked commercial expansion in some countries.

The Correspondants Diplomatiques are committed to promoting entrepreneurship in the world, but the real goal is to bring together professionals and entrepreneurs who work for balanced and ethical development in developing countries: building sound business while improving local living standards through humanitarian initiatives and new employment.

Solidarity is the essential quality of every member. Everything is pursued only through diplomacy: the ability to act with prudence, balance, discretion and tact.

Members have access to training, seminars, workshops and opportunities to meet representatives of institutions.

Identification, car stickers and uniforms

What every Diplomatic Correspondent receives, and the rules that go with it.

Identification document of the Diplomatic Correspondents: burgundy cover with the gold emblem

Identification document

Every Diplomatic Correspondent holds a personal identification document attesting to membership of the organisation. It must be shown on request to officers of the organisation, government authorities and the police.

The document belongs to the organisation and is entrusted to each member. Loss or theft must be reported promptly to the competent authorities and, in writing, to the Governor General in Malta, with a copy of the report. A member who leaves the organisation must return the document. The cost of a duplicate is charged to the member.

Oval car sticker with the letters CD

Car stickers

For mutual recognition, each Correspondent also receives two oval stickers for the car they use: one on the lower right of the rear and one on the lower left of the front.

Stickers must never be placed on the windscreen or windows, where they could obstruct the driver's view.

Red ceremonial uniforms of the Diplomatic CorrespondentsBlack gala uniforms

Uniforms

On ceremonial occasions members may wear a uniform, solely to give the organisation greater visibility. Those who choose to wear one buy it at their own expense. The differences in design reflect the different functions and responsibilities within the organisation.

The gala uniform is a double-breasted, six-button jacket with two flap pockets and classic-cut trousers, worn with a cap, a white cotton shirt with double cuffs, a black silk tie, white leather gloves and black leather shoes. A bow tie is worn in the evening.

For uniform information and orders, contact the Governor General.

Communications, accreditations and recognitions

Other formal communications and recognitions, in chronological order.

  1. 5 April 1993
    Statute and constitution deposited in the notarial archive
    Dott. Alex Sceberras Trigona, Malta
    Nr. 22
  2. 1993
    Registered with the Department of Information
    Office of the Prime Minister, Republic of Malta
    Nr. 38/1993
  3. 22 November 2004
    Communication of formal introduction
    Embassy of Italy in Malta
    Prot. Oms
  4. 22 November 2004
    Communication of formal introduction
    Director of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malta
    Prot. C.R.
  5. 1 January 2005
    Enrolled in the chamber of commerce
    Maltese Italia Chamber of Commerce, Exchange Building, Republic Street, Valletta
  6. 17 June 2005
    Communication received
    Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti, Dipartimento Trasporti Terrestri, Direzione Generale per la Motorizzazione, Roma
    Prot. 2941/M360
  7. July 2005
    Registered with the Italian tax registry
    Ministero delle Finanze, Anagrafe Tributaria, Ufficio di Roma 5
    Codice fiscale 97381310586
  8. 3 September 2005
    Notification for the record
    Ministère des Affaires étrangères, Direction des Nations Unies et des Organisations internationales, Paris
    Prot. Nr. RA/231817758
  9. 6 September 2005
    Notification for the record
    Ministero degli Affari Esteri, Ufficio del Cerimoniale Diplomatico, Roma
    Prot. Nr. RA/128592581378
  10. 6 September 2005
    Notification for the record
    Ministero degli Interni, Settore Relazioni Internazionali, Roma
    Prot. Nr. RA/128592581389
  11. Undated
    Notification for the record
    Ministère de l'Intérieur, Bureau des Relations internationales, Paris
  12. 19 December 2006
    Application for recognition as a non-profit legal entity (ente morale)
    Ministero degli Interni, Roma
    Prot. Nr. K3/R97/20(3)
  13. 21 June 2007
    Registration receipt for the CD plaque
    Ministry for Competitiveness and Communications, Republic of Malta
    Ref. 45446
  14. 21 June 2007
    Registration receipt for the organisation's names
    Ministry for Competitiveness and Communications, Republic of Malta
    Ref. 45447
  15. May 2008
    Permanent member of the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty
    World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, Châtillon, France
  16. Undated
    Affiliate of the National Italian American Foundation
    The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), Washington DC, USA

Acknowledgments and official communications

Select a document to enlarge it.

Patronages

In carrying out its institutional activities the organisation has been granted the following patronages.

Institutions4

Facoltà di Scienze Turistiche di CasertaPermanent patronage
Senato della Repubblica Italiana
Ministero della Pubblica Istruzione, Ufficio Scolastico Regionale per la Campania
Ministero delle Attività Produttive, Viceministro Attività Produttive

Regions12

Lazio
Sicilia
Campania
Toscana
Molise
Calabria
Basilicata
Emilia-Romagna
Umbria
Abruzzo
Puglia
Lombardia

Provinces54

Ragusa
Caserta
Siracusa
Cagliari
Nuoro
Pesaro
Reggio Emilia
Foggia
Udine
Isernia
Padova
Alessandria
Lecce
Benevento
Belluno
Oristano
Varese
Parma
Urbino
Ascoli Piceno
Cuneo
Novara
Campobasso
Genova
L'Aquila
Torino
Frosinone
Firenze
Napoli
Trapani
Ancona
Ferrara
Taranto
Sassari
Pistoia
Verbania
Prato
Bari
Perugia
Enna
Asti
Venezia
Arezzo
Trieste
Rovigo
Latina
Lodi
Pisa
Brindisi
Catanzaro
Pescara
Savona
Messina
Macerata

Municipalities11

Napoli
Caserta
Maddaloni
Venezia
Ancona
Palermo
Lajatico
Perugia
L'Aquila
Firenze
Bari

Other bodies3

Regione Campania, A.S.L. Caserta 1
Accademia Internazionale dello Spettacolo Italia – Film
Unione Esperti Europei per il Turismo

Expressions of appreciation

The organisation has also received expressions of appreciation from the following people and bodies.

Also from the Province of Ravenna, the Province of Vicenza and the Municipality of Trieste.

The Province of Naples grants its patronage because “these initiatives are against the Camorra system”.

As listed in the organisation's record of 2019. Titles are those given in that record.

Ban Ki-moon
Secretary-General of the United Nations
José Manuel Durão Barroso
President of the European Commission
Kofi Annan
President of the Kofi Annan Foundation
Irene Khan
Secretary General of Amnesty International
Edward Fenech Adami
President of the Republic of Malta
Nicolas Sarkozy
President of the French Republic
Albert II
Prince of Monaco
Silvio Berlusconi
Antonio Mazzocchi
Quaestor of the Italian Chamber of Deputies
Renato Raffaele Martino
Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
Giampaolo Crepaldi
Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
Our work

Four commitments every Correspondent shares.

A non-profit, non-governmental organisation of volunteers. All surplus goes back into the work.

01

Humanitarian aid

Fund-raising campaigns and direct interventions, from first-necessity support to health, education and work.

Healthcare, livelihoods, poverty, child mortality, education, emergency response, water and sanitation, and other needs of the people.

02

Public diplomacy

Meetings, ceremonies and conventions that put people and institutions from different countries in the same room.

Solidarity is the essential quality of every member. Everything is pursued only through diplomacy: the ability to act with prudence, balance, discretion and tact.

03

Ethical exchange

Economic and cultural exchange without a predatory attitude: enterprise that leaves work and dignity where it lands.

The Correspondants Diplomatiques are committed to promoting entrepreneurship in the world, but the real goal is to bring together professionals and entrepreneurs who work for balanced and ethical development in developing countries: building sound business while improving local living standards through humanitarian initiatives and new employment.

04

Human rights

Promoting the rights set out in the Universal Declaration of 1948, and bringing citizens' concerns to governments.

The Diplomatic Correspondents believe in the rights of the people and work to give those in need access to basic human rights. Development is not a gift or a privilege.

Ethical exchange

International cooperation

Economic and cultural exchange without a predatory attitude: enterprise that leaves work and dignity where it lands.

Africa programme 2020–2022

Studies, projects and missions prepared by the organisation for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Kenya.

  • Democratic Republic of the Congo · November 2019

    Evaluation of solid waste management in the city of Kinshasa

    A study prepared with COBA Impact Manufacturing PLC as technical partner. It proposes a public-private partnership to help the city's municipalities manage solid waste: awareness campaigns in communities and schools, collection and sorting of plastic at source, better equipment and working conditions for waste collectors, and stronger collection associations and businesses.

  • Kenya

    Kenya Project: evaluation of solid waste management

  • Mombasa, Nairobi, Kinshasa · January 2020

    CD Mission 2020: “I take you to Africa… come and see”

    A mission for members to share daily life in rural communities: volunteering in a preschool or clinic, fetching water, harvesting, visiting markets and helping with building and agricultural work, alongside local schools, churches and non-profit organisations.

Links to other websites open in a new tab.

Conventions and ceremonies

Where the organisation meets.

The annual convention with its ceremony, nominations and gala, and the meetings and conferences presented by the Diplomatic Correspondents.

Next convention

Dates and city to be announced

Members register through the members' area.

Members register

Documents for the event

The documents for the next convention will be published here.

  • ProgrammeTo be uploaded
  • Dress codeTo be uploaded
  • Other documentsTo be uploaded

Past conventions

24–27 Sept 2026
Latest convention

Rome Convention & Grand Gala

Rome, Italy. Welcome Dinner on 25 September and Grand Gala Dinner on 26 September, with the annual ceremony and nominations.

Rome, Italy
26–31 March 2025 · Conference, nominations and gala
Bucharest, Romania
30 November – 4 December 2022
Earlier conventions and galas will be added here.

Meetings and conferences

Conferences presented by the Diplomatic Correspondents. Titles are given in their original language.

  1. 7 December 2018
    Europe and Africa: Which Are the Prospects through Development and Diplomatic Action
    Hall René Monory, Palais du Luxembourg, Senate of France
  2. 7–9 December 2017
    Correspondents Diplomatiques between Friendship, Values, Business and Solidarity
    Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta, Malta
  3. 15 April 2016
    Emergenza terrorismo in Europa: opinioni e strategie a confronto
    Salone d'Onore, Palazzo dei Principi Brancaccio, Roma
  4. 13 March 2015
    Malta isola di opportunità imprenditoriali, e non solo
    Salone d'Onore, Palazzo dei Principi Brancaccio, Roma
  5. 25 January 2013
    Crisi economica europea? Una grande opportunità di sviluppo.
    Ministero della Difesa, Casa dell'Aviatore, Roma
  6. 7 December 2011
    I Corrispondenti Diplomatici per l'elevazione morale e culturale
    Palazzo Ferrajoli, Piazza Chigi, Roma
  7. 5–12 September 2011
    Terrorism: To Remember September 11th
    United Nations Building, New York
  8. 19 November 2010
    La politica migratoria dell'Unione Europea. La piaga dell'immigrazione clandestina
    Presidenza del Consiglio dei Ministri, Sala Galleria Colonna, Roma
  9. 7 June 2008
    A World Without Death Penalty: “The Death Penalty: Between Ethics of the Life and Authority of the State”
    Teatro di Corte, Palazzo Reale di Caserta (Reggia Vanvitelliana)
  10. 7 June 2007
    Terrorismo e bio terrorismo. Contro la paura per l'istruzione: “Per una politica educativa scolastica”
    Senato della Repubblica, Sala del Refettorio
    PatronageSenato della Repubblica e Commissione Difesa del Senato
  11. 17 June 2006
    Children's Day 2006: “Uneasiness and Remedies”
    Sala Consiliare del Comune di Montecatini Terme
    PatronageComune di Montecatini Terme
  12. 4 November 2005
    1st National Workshop for Foreign Investors on Opportunities and Strategies for New Investments in Malta
    Chamber of Commerce of Malta
    PatronageMinistero delle Attività Produttive
  13. 19 May
    Tutela e diritti del fanciullo: aspetti giuridici, sociali e psicologici dell'infanzia
    Sala Tevere, Regione Lazio
    PatronageComune di Roma
  14. 17 June
    L'integrazione europea e la cooperazione giudiziaria in materia penale
    Sala del Carroccio, Campidoglio, Roma
    PatronageComune di Roma
The organisation

Awards

The two awards conferred by the Diplomatic Correspondents: the International Mediterranean Award and the Excellency Woman award.

Awarded since 1993

International Mediterranean Award

Conferred by the organisation on people whose work in public life, science and the arts has served dialogue between peoples.

Recipients

Prof. Anton Buttigieg
1993
Prof. Anton Buttigieg
President of the Republic of Malta
Eugenio Barresi Di Barrese
1994
Eugenio Barresi Di Barrese
Consul of Malta in Catania
Prof. Mario Sansone
1995
Prof. Mario Sansone
Historian and philosopher
Marcel Metefara
2000
Marcel Metefara
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Central African Republic
Gigi D'Alessio
Gigi D'Alessio
Singer and composer
Antonio Giuliani
Antonio Giuliani
Show and cabaret
Giovanni Cavallaro
Giovanni Cavallaro
Second Lieutenant, Carabinieri
Pietro Petrucci
Pietro Petrucci
Corporal Major, Italian Army
Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli
Singer and composer
Antonio De Curtis “Totò”
Antonio De Curtis “Totò”
Actor
Prof. Guido de Marco
Prof. Guido de Marco
President Emeritus of Malta
Gen. Antonino Iaria
Gen. Antonino Iaria
Lieutenant General
Mons. Vincenzo Di Muro
Mons. Vincenzo Di Muro
Prelate of Honour of His Holiness
Vocal Song
Vocal Song
Popular Gregorian music
Tony Esposito
Tony Esposito
Singer and composer
Alex Sceberras Trigona
Alex Sceberras Trigona
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malta
Gerard Otmar Hiwat
Gerard Otmar Hiwat
Ambassador of Suriname to Italy
Michele Placido
Michele Placido
Actor, screenwriter and director
Bruno Prestagiovanni
Bruno Prestagiovanni
Vice-President of the Lazio Regional Council
Alessandro De Franciscis
Alessandro De Franciscis
President of the Province of Caserta
Umberto Guidoni
Umberto Guidoni
Astronaut and astrophysicist
Stefano D'Orazio
Stefano D'Orazio
Musician, drummer of Pooh
Awarded since 1985

Excellency Woman award

The Diplomatic Correspondents established this award for women who have distinguished themselves through their industriousness, diligence and ingenuity in professional, entrepreneurial and cultural fields, reaching outstanding goals.

Women now take part in every sector of public life, from the economy and finance to the institutions, yet their contribution has not received the recognition it deserves. The award is deliberately selective: it highlights achievements that stand as examples of the stronger role of women in all sectors, in Europe and internationally, including in professions usually reserved for men.

It is presented at the gala evening, in the presence of authorities and journalists, with the trophy designed by the Governor General, Prof. Lello Marra.

Recipients of the award

H.E. Agatha Barbara
Culture and education
H.E. Agatha Barbara
Third President of Malta
Paola Zanoni
Journalism and information
Paola Zanoni
Journalist and announcer, RAI
Anita Maria Elisabet Vanenburg
Human solidarity
Anita Maria Elisabet Vanenburg
President, F. Voor Social Aktie
Franca Sebastiani
Sacred lyric music
Franca Sebastiani
Italian singer
Marina Pittini
Women of success
Marina Pittini
Italian businesswoman
On. Rosa Suppa
Human solidarity
On. Rosa Suppa
Member of the Italian Parliament
Marzia Sedoc
Human solidarity
Marzia Sedoc
Dancer and singer, RAI
Sylvie Vartan
Human solidarity
Sylvie Vartan
International singer
Ivana Spagna
Excellency Woman
Ivana Spagna
Italian singer
Correspondant Diplomatique Magazine

Journals

The organisation's own record of its conventions, projects and people, published since 2006. Every issue is free to read online.

All issues

The organisation

Become a member

Membership is by application and decided by the Steering Committee. There is no requirement to join beyond transparency, morality and integrity.

How membership works

The Diplomatic Correspondents are volunteers: professionals, entrepreneurs and cultural figures who support the organisation's humanitarian, human rights and public diplomacy work alongside their own activity. Membership is personal and unpaid, and the organisation is non-profit.

Admission

Candidates apply online and name two members who recommend them. The Steering Committee decides on each application.

What members receive

Their credentials (identity card, appointment decree, medal and car plaques), access to the members' area, and a place at the organisation's conventions and ceremonies. The certificate of merit is presented at the nomination ceremony, when new Correspondents are nominated.

What members commit to

To support the organisation's aims, follow its statute and regulations, maintain a high standard of personal and professional conduct, and remain in good standing with the annual fee.

Rules of membership

From the organisation's application form.

Commitments and duties of membership

Each C.D. undertakes to uphold and promote the aims of the International Organization for Diplomatic Relations, to disseminate its principles and ideals, and to support the activities and initiatives promoted by the Organization.

  1. Each C.D. shall comply fully with the Statute, the Regulations and the internal rules.
  2. Each member shall promptly notify the Secretary General, in writing, of any change concerning his or her residential address, contact details or other relevant information.
  3. No member shall be entitled to represent, act on behalf of, or bind the Organization without prior written authorization from the competent governing body.
  4. The use of the Organization's registered emblem®, name, letterhead, seals, insignia, identification marks, official documents, or any other distinctive element belonging to the Organization is strictly prohibited unless expressly authorized in writing. Any unauthorized, improper or abusive use may constitute grounds for disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the Organization.
  5. A member's unjustified absence from two consecutive duly convened events shall be reviewed by the Steering Committee, which, upon completion of the customary written verification procedure, may submit a proposal for the expulsion of the member concerned.
  6. Each member shall pay, in advance, the annual membership fee in the amount determined. Payment shall be made no later than the last day of February each year. Failure to pay the annual membership fee within the prescribed deadline will result in termination of membership rights and status, in accordance with the Regulations and the Statute.
  7. A criminal conviction or pending legal circumstance capable of materially affecting the reputation, integrity or purposes of the Organization may be taken into consideration in determining admission, suspension or continued membership, subject to applicable law.
  8. Any false, incomplete, inaccurate, misleading or fraudulently submitted information or documentation may constitute grounds for refusal of admission, suspension or expulsion, and the membership fees already paid shall not be refundable.
  9. By accepting membership and receiving the Organization's documents, credentials or other official documentation, each member shall be deemed to have acknowledged and accepted the Statute, the Regulations and all duly adopted internal provisions.
  10. The official administrative year of the Organization shall commence on 1 January and terminate on 31 December of each calendar year.
  11. The Management Committee shall have the authority to assign specific functions, duties, mandates or responsibilities to members or to other officers of the Organization, in accordance with the Statute.
  12. The Governor General shall exercise the powers of appointment, confirmation, renewal, replacement or removal of office-holders and members where such powers are conferred upon him by the Statute.
  13. Upon resignation, suspension, expulsion, termination of membership or cessation of office, the person concerned shall immediately cease using, and shall return to the Organization, all membership cards, credentials, documents, insignia, seals, identification materials, property and any other item belonging to or issued by the Organization.
  14. Decisions concerning the acceptance or rejection of applications for membership shall fall within the exclusive competence of the Management Committee. Such decisions shall be final, except where the Statute expressly provides for an internal review or appeal procedure.
  15. Each candidate shall submit, together with the duly completed and signed application form, the documentation required.
  16. Nothing contained in these Regulations shall limit the powers expressly conferred upon the General Assembly, the Governor General, the Board of Directors or any other competent governing body under the Statute.

Documents required with the application

  1. Personal identification documents: passport and identity card
  2. A recent passport-size photograph in formal attire
  3. A certificate of good conduct or criminal record certificate, issued by the competent authority within the last three months
  4. Education and professional documents: a copy of the educational qualification, where held, and a detailed curriculum vitae
  5. Vehicle documents: the car registration document and a photograph of the number plate
  6. Any additional documentation reasonably required for the verification of the candidate's identity, eligibility, professional standing, or suitability for membership

In the event of any conflict between these Regulations and the Statute, the provisions of the Statute shall prevail.

Membership rights

Every member will receive the following materials:

  1. The “C.D. Correspondents Diplomatiques” ID card
  2. The “C.D. Correspondents Diplomatiques” Appointment Decree, legalized and apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malta
  3. The Organization medal and oval CD plaques for the car used by the Diplomatic Correspondent
  4. The “C.D. Credentials of Organization”

Application and procedure

Fill in the form below and attach your documents. To be nominated at the next event, your application must be complete at least two months prior to the nomination event of that year; later applications are carried over to the following year.

Every field must be completed and every document attached before the application can be submitted. If something does not apply to you, write “None”.

Your details

Address
Passport
For your identification document
Vehicle
If you have no car, write “None”.
If you have no car, write “None”.
Education and profession
If none, write “None”.
If none, write “None”.
For example: Knight of a national order of merit; Doctor honoris causa; university professor; an award for professional or humanitarian work. If none, write “None”.

References

Name and surname of a member who recommends you
Name and surname of a member who recommends you

Declaration

Use of your personal data

We use your data only to handle your application and, if you are admitted, your membership. The privacy notice explains who processes it, for how long it is kept and what your rights are.

Read the privacy notice

Documents

Upload a clear colour scan or photograph of each document, as PDF, JPG or PNG. Copies do not need to be certified or authenticated.

Support the organisation

Donate and sponsor

Anyone can support the work of the Diplomatic Correspondents: with a donation to the organisation, or by sponsoring the next convention with a company, an organisation or a business idea.

Become a sponsor of the next convention

Companies, organisations and people with a business idea can apply to sponsor the next convention. Sponsors are presented to members and guests at the event. The Committee reviews every application and will contact you.

What you do and why you would like to sponsor the convention.
What you would like to offer

We use the details in this form only to evaluate your request and contact you about it.

The organisation

Our team and directive organs

How the organisation is structured, and the people who lead it.

Governor GeneralProf. Dr. Lello Marra
  1. Deputy Governor
  2. First Counsellor
  3. General Counsellor
  4. Publications and Press
  5. IT Officer
  1. General Secretary
  2. International Secretary
  3. Foreign Affairs Secretary
  4. National Foreign Secretaries
  5. International Relations
  1. General Assembly
  2. Steering Committee
  3. Treasurer
  4. Activities and Support
  5. Volunteers and Staff
Spiritual Support
Accounting, External Office

Steering Committee

Mandate 2026–2031

Marcello Patti
General Secretary
Prof. Dr. Lello Marra
Governor General
Sabatino Candeloro Calandrini
Treasurer
Tiziano Ottavi
C.D. Member
Marcello Noce
C.D. Member
Emil Kazinic
C.D. Member
Darko Filiput
National Secretary, Slovenia
Antonio Razzi
Coordinator, Abruzzo Region
Abdalla Abou Shanab
Foreign Affairs Secretary
The organisation

Privacy notice

Provisional text: the final notice will be approved by the organisation and its legal adviser. Last updated: 20 October 2026.

1. Who is responsible for your data

The International Organization for Diplomatic Relations — Correspondants Diplomatiques, 28/11 Strait Street, Vincenti Building, Valletta VLT 1432, Malta. E-mail: diplomatic@diplomaticmalta.com.

2. What data we collect

  • Applications for membership: identity, contact details and the documents you upload.
  • Members: profile, documents, fees and payments.
  • Donations and sponsorship requests: name, contact details and amount.
  • Event bookings: the names of members and guests, and the choices made.
  • Technical data needed to sign in to the members' area.

3. Why we use it

To handle the admission procedure and membership, to record payments and issue receipts, to organise events and to meet our accounting obligations. The legal bases will be confirmed by our legal adviser.

4. Who receives it

The officers of the organisation, each according to their role, and the providers that work for us: Supabase (database and files, in the European Union), Resend (sending of e-mails from the European Union; account data in the United States), Vercel (website), Cloudflare Turnstile (protection of the forms) and an external backup space in the European Union (encrypted files only).

5. Transfers outside the European Union

Only where a provider keeps account data outside the European Union, with the safeguards of its contract.

6. How long we keep it

  • Application drafts not sent: 48 hours.
  • Applications refused, lapsed or withdrawn: 6 months after the decision.
  • Members' documents: for the duration of membership, plus 1 year.
  • Logs of e-mails and of document views: 12 months.
  • Payments and receipts: as long as Maltese law requires.
  • Record of changes: 5 years.
  • Addresses that do not receive our e-mails (permanent bounce or complaint): 12 months, like the e-mail logs.

7. Your rights

You can ask for access to your data, its correction or erasure and the restriction of its use; you can object to its use and ask for its portability. Write to the address in point 1. You can also lodge a complaint with the Information and Data Protection Commissioner (IDPC), Malta.

8. Cookies and browser storage

We use no advertising or statistics cookies. Your browser keeps the language you choose (localStorage) and, when you sign in, your session in that tab. The protection of the forms uses a technical cookie.

9. Guests at our events

Whoever books for a guest informs them. Guests' names are used only for the bookings and the seating list of that event.