martedì 28 ottobre 2025

Writing a memorandum (memo)

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-memo/

How to Write a Memo in 8 Steps, With Examples | Grammarly

but in class we will talk about the specifics of writing a memo for a superior in the diplomatic corps.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/memo-format

https://www.forbes.com/sites/averyblank/2021/10/26/5-tips-for-writing-a-solid-one-page-memo-to-an-executive/?sh=1f462fb51078

https://www.eda.admin.ch/dam/eda/it/documents/publications/GlossarezurAussenpolitik/ABC-Diplomatie_it.pdf

https://education.cfr.org/learn/simulation/boko-haram-nigeria-2017-nsc/write-a-position-memo click where it says ‘click here’ to see a sample position paper

https://www.brookings.edu/research/memo-to-the-president-renew-diplomacy-in-the-middle-east/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/interviste/2020/06/memorandum-sui-migranti-apertura-di-tripoli-all-italia-il-messaggero/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/comunicati/2020/05/memorandum-di-cooperazione-in-campo-sanitario-italia-giappone-firmato-oggi-tra-i-due-ministeri-della-salute/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/eventi/2020/05/covid19-firmato-memorandum-di-cooperazione-col-giappone/

https://it.encyclopedia-titanica.com/significado-de-memor-ndum

https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/files/hks-communications-program/files/pp_sri_kulkarni_and_yotam_goren_4_10_17.pdf

https://dspace.mit.edu/bitstream/handle/1721.1/36824/11-479Spring-2004/NR/rdonlyres/Urban-Studies-and-Planning/11-479Spring-2004/9CE4ACA2-EC3D-4C1D-91CC-27971E27DCF5/0/pmwriting.pdf

A business memo

https://www.forbes.com/sites/averyblank/2021/10/26/5-tips-for-writing-a-solid-one-page-memo-to-an-executive/?sh=1f462fb51078

https://www.wikihow.it/Scrivere-un-Memo

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-memo/

don’t confuse this with:

un memorandum d'intesa /a memorandum of understanding

which is a legal agreement, for example

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorandum_d%27intesa

https://www.governo.it/sites/governo.it/files/Libia.pdf

just interesting

https://baldi.diplomacy.edu/italy/Baldi-Gelbstein_management_diplomatici_2ed.pdf

More on writing a memo

‘The information is organised into paragraphs with the heading often acting as the topic sentence. It then follows an organisational pattern, from general to specific, with examples, statistics and other forms of evidence being the core of the memo. A bullet point list can be used to highlight important points. ‘

https://www.scu.edu.au/media/scu-dep/current-students/learning-zone/quick-guides/writing_a_memo.pdf

‘Content: Leave a few line spaces between the headings and the content.  ALWAYS BE DIRECT: get straight to your point.  Bullets and subheadings may be appropriate to break large blocks of information into smaller units.  Do not indent the first line of paragraphs.  Leave one line space between paragraphs.’

https://nmu.edu/writingcenter/memorandum

https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/what-best-practices-using-bullet-points-memo

https://blog.logrocket.com/product-management/how-to-write-a-memo-format-examples/

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/business-writing/how-to-write-memo/

 

How to structure an essay on diplomacy and international relations

https://essayservice.com/blog/international-relations-essay#:~:text=Divide%20it%20into%20an%20introduction,supported%20by%20evidence%20and%20analysis.

https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/ua/media/38/learningguide-internationalpolitics.pdf

https://www.tutorhunt.com/resource/13007/

https://essayservice.com/blog/international-relations-essay

Writing an essay on international relations for a diplomatic exam requires a clear, well-organized approach that demonstrates both your understanding of the field and your ability to present an argument. Here's one possible, suggested structure you can follow:

1. Introduction (Approx. 10-15% of the essay)

The introduction should briefly set up the context of the topic or question, define key concepts, and state your thesis or the main argument you will make.

  • Contextualize the issue: Begin by framing the broader international relations topic. For instance, if the topic is about "global governance," provide a short background on the rise of international institutions. Or refer to an event or statement by a government or leader that illustrates the current situation, trends or centre of debate.
  • Define key terms: If there are key terms or concepts in the question (such as  ‘cultural diplomacy’or ‘globalization’), briefly define them to clarify your approach.
  • Thesis statement: End your introduction with a clear thesis that outlines your argument or the main point of your essay. This will guide your discussion of the question throughout your essay.

2. Body Paragraphs (Approx. 75-80% of the essay)

The body of the essay should be broken into several distinct sections, each addressing a specific aspect of the question.

a) Theoretical Framework or Historical Context

  • The framework of international relations: Depending on the question, you may want to start by explaining the relevant IR framework, theoretical, practical and legal. For instance, if the question is about an international conflict, you could put it in the context of the UN Charter and international law and in relation to Italy’s foreign policy or the EU’s stance.
  • Historical Background: If applicable, give a brief overview of the historical context that’s relevant to the question (e.g. as regards a conflict, how the conflict came about, the International response, any ongoing or proposed peace process). This helps set up the issue at hand.

b) Analysis and Discussion

  • Key Arguments/Points: Break down the central themes or arguments in relation to the question. Provide a nuanced discussion and consider both sides of the argument. For example, if discussing the effectiveness of the United Nations, you might weigh its successes in peacekeeping against criticisms regarding its structure and response to crises.
  • Evidence and Examples: Use concrete examples from recent events, treaties, international agreements, or cases to back up your claims. You might discuss topics like the role of the U.N. in peacekeeping, the impact of economic sanctions, or the rise of regional organizations like the European Union or ASEAN.
  • Contrasting Perspectives: A diplomatic exam often values critical thinking, so be sure to include contrasting perspectives. For example, you could explore both the realist and liberal perspectives on a global issue, demonstrating an ability to engage with diverse viewpoints.

c) Implications/Recommendations? (if applicable)

  • Policy Implications: If the question asks or seems to ask for solutions or recommendations, this is the section where you outline potential policy solutions. Consider the diplomatic, political, and economic consequences of various courses of action. However, often the question will ask you to explore the problem and outline strategies and responses to the problem proposed by authoritative voices (governments, leaders, the UN, NGOs, experts) RATHER THAN your own proposals.
  • Diplomatic Insights: You might include recommendations that a diplomat might consider in dealing with the issue at hand. This could involve negotiating strategies, institutional reforms, or proposals for conflict resolution. But again, can you cite someone authoritative who has put forward these ideas?

3. Conclusion (Approx. 10-15% of the essay)

The conclusion should succinctly wrap up the essay by restating your main argument and summarizing the key points.

  • Summarize Key Points: Briefly review the main points of your analysis without introducing new information.
  • Restate Thesis: Reinforce your thesis statement and how the discussion supports it.
  • Broader Implications: End with a brief note on the broader implications of the issue for international relations, diplomacy, or global governance. This may be a new question that follows from your essay or an event or statement (by a government or leader) that carries us forward from your analysis.

General Tips:

  • Clarity and Precision: Ensure your arguments are clear and well-organized and illustrated with examples and appropriate data and information to justify your points. Avoid unnecessary jargon unless it's critical to the subject matter. Avoid unnecessary repetition.
  • Balance of Theory and Practice: While it's important to ground your arguments in some king of general frame work (theoretical, legal, institutional)  make sure to balance this with practical examples and real-world applications.
  • Critical Thinking: Always engage critically with the material. Acknowledge the complexities and nuances of international relations issues and avoid overly simplistic conclusions.
  • Diplomatic Tone: Since it's a diplomatic exam, ensure your tone is respectful, measured, and professional, even when discussing contentious issues.
  • Citations: If you decide to use references, use them appropriately to support your arguments. Even if you don't directly cite sources, showing that you're aware of key texts or events will demonstrate depth. So you are more likely to cite NATO’s position on a question or a NATO mission and its objectives rather than to cite a specific NATO document in detail. However, You could cite a  strategy document like ‘NextGenerationEU’ and its goals and then look at the progress or lack of progress made so far in achieving those goals. 

 

lunedì 27 ottobre 2025

Linking words (or conjunctions or connectors or discourse markers)

 https://eslforums.com/list-of-conjunctions/

https://www.oxfordinternationalenglish.com/linking-words-and-phrases-in-english/

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/parts-of-speech/conjunctions/

http://academicwriting.wikidot.com/linking-words-and-phrases

https://global-exam.com/blog/en/english-grammar-conjunction-words-in-english-detailed-guide-and-examples/

https://magoosh.com/english-speaking/the-ultimate-english-conjunctions-list/

http://www.english-at-home.com/grammar/linking-words/

http://www.ecenglish.com/learnenglish/lessons/linking-words

http://www.vivquarry.com/wkshts/linkwd.html

http://www.learn-english-today.com/lessons/lesson_contents/exercises/linking-words-ex.htm

http://www.learn-english-today.com/lessons/lesson_contents/exercises/linking-words-ex-answers.htm

http://www.englishexercises.org/makeagame/viewgame.asp?id=2163

http://www.ecenglish.com/learnenglish/lessons/linking-words

https://englishswami.com/linking-words/

Exercises

https://agendaweb.org/grammar/conjunctions-exercises.html

https://agendaweb.org/grammar/conjunctions-connectors-exercises.html

https://agendaweb.org/exercises/grammar/conjunctions-connectors/test-1.htm

http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/cae/students/writing/linking/

https://www.flo-joe.co.uk/cae/students/writing/linking/index.htm

http://www.englishgrammar.org/linking-words-exercise/

https://test-english.com/grammar-points/b2/discourse-markers/

https://www.perfect-english-grammar.com/linking-words-contrast-exercise-1.html

https://www.perfect-english-grammar.com/linking-words-reason-exercise-2.html

http://www.english-practice.at/b2/grammar/connectives/b2-connectives-index.htm

https://www.esl-lounge.com/student/grammar/4g67-linking-words.php

and lots of links to pages of exercises here:

https://www.english-grammar.at/online_exercises/connectives/connectives-index.htm

domenica 26 ottobre 2025

Cultural Diplomacy

Definition

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_diplomacy

http://www.culturaldiplomacy.org/index.php?en_culturaldiplomacy

Cultural diplomacy is the exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and other aspects of culture between nations to build mutual understanding and strengthen relationships. It uses cultural elements like art, language, and education to foster trust and cooperation, differentiating itself from traditional diplomacy by relying on attraction and dialogue rather than coercion or political negotiation. 

Key aspects of cultural diplomacy:

Mutual understanding: It aims to bridge cultural divides by promoting a deeper appreciation of different heritages, helping to dispel stereotypes and misconceptions through shared experiences, such as festivals or language programs.

Building relationships: It fosters long-term relationships between individuals, communities, and organizations across borders, creating a foundation for future collaboration in various fields.

Soft power tool: It is a form of public diplomacy (see below*) that relies on "soft power"—the ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than force.

Promoting national interests: By showcasing a nation's culture, values, and stories, it can promote national interests and build goodwill with other countries.

Broad application: It can be practiced by public sector entities, private companies, and civil society organizations. Examples include the exchange of artists, scholarships, scientific conferences, and the promotion of a national language abroad. 

*Public diplomacy is the government-sponsored effort to communicate directly with foreign publics to build understanding and support for a country's strategic objectives. It involves fostering dialogue, promoting a positive image, and influencing public opinion overseas through cultural, educational, and other non-traditional diplomatic channels. 

Key aspects of public diplomacy

Target audience: Unlike traditional diplomacy, which focuses on state-to-state interactions, public diplomacy directly engages with foreign citizens, civil society, and other non-governmental actors. 

Goals: The primary goals are to inform and influence foreign publics to build long-term relationships and generate support for a nation's foreign policy, although it can also be used to improve a country's image without immediate policy objectives. 

Methods: Public diplomacy employs a wide range of tools, including: 

Cultural exchange: Programs like the Erasmus+ program build long-term relationships through educational and professional networks. 

Strategic communication: Crafting and broadcasting messages through various media, including social media, to present a country's values and positions. 

Branding: Promoting a country's identity by highlighting its culture, economy, and achievements to build a positive national brand. 

International events: Using events like World Expos to engage with foreign publics and showcase a country's innovation and diversity. 

Distinction from traditional diplomacy - public diplomacy complements, rather than replaces, traditional diplomacy by engaging the public, while traditional diplomacy focuses on formal negotiations between government officials. 

Distinction from propaganda - While both involve communication to influence opinion, public diplomacy is distinct from propaganda. Public diplomacy emphasizes building trust and mutual understanding based on an positive, open but accurate and verifiable projection of the country, while propaganda can be false or designed to be misleading or with covert goals and a hidden agenda. 

Italian Cultural Diplomacy

https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/

open all the sections listed on the right of this next page  https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/reteiic/

open the most useful sections listed on the right of this next page  https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/promozionelinguaitaliana/

for example https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/promozionelinguaitaliana/settimanalinguaitaliana/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/promozionelinguaitaliana/

also https://italiana.esteri.it/italiana/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/cooperculturale/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/cooperculturale/unesco/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/cooperculturale/iccrom/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/archeologiapatrimonioculturale/

https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/comitato-neapolis-2500/

https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cultura/recupero-dei-beni-culturali-illecitamente-sottratti/

Look at the links to Scientific Diplomacy https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-culturale-e-diplomazia-scientifica/cooperscientificatecnologica/ see the links on the right of that page

and Sports Diplomacy https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-economica-e-politica-commerciale/diplomazia-dello-sport/ see the links on the right of that page

and above all to Economic Diplomacy https://www.esteri.it/en/diplomazia-economica-e-politica-commerciale/diplomaziaeconomica/ see the links on the right of that page

for example https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-economica-e-politica-commerciale/diplomaziaeconomica/promozione-integrata-del-sistema/

and then all the links:

https://www.esteri.it/it/diplomazia-economica-e-politica-commerciale/diplomaziaeconomica/promozione-integrata-del-sistema/settimana-della-cucina-italiana/

https://creativitacontemporanea.cultura.gov.it/italiandesignday-2025/

https://italiandesignday-official.it/

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giornata_nazionale_dello_spazio

https://conshouston.esteri.it/it/italia-e-usa/diplomazia-scientifica/italian-national-space-day/

and how all of these are linked within the ‘sistema paese’ (country promotion)

https://www.esteri.it/it/ministero/struttura/dgpromozionesistemapaese/

https://www.esteri.it/en/ministero/struttura/dgpromozionesistemapaese/

Il "sistema paese" al Ministero degli Esteri si riferisce alla Direzione Generale per la promozione del Sistema Paese (DGSP), un'unità del Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale responsabile della promozione all'estero dell'economia, della cultura e della scienza italiane. Il suo obiettivo è coordinare gli sforzi di internazionalizzazione e sostenere gli interessi e le esigenze del paese all'estero, lavorando anche in collaborazione con le Regioni e altre autonomie territoriali. 

Cosa significa: Il termine "sistema paese" nel contesto del Ministero indica l'insieme delle componenti istituzionali, economiche, culturali e sociali italiane che contribuiscono allo sviluppo della nazione.

Cosa fa il Ministero: La DGSP promuove questi elementi all'estero attraverso la rete diplomatica e consolare, cercando di valorizzare l'immagine e il patrimonio dell'Italia, ma rimanendo aperta all'innovazione e ai nuovi sviluppi.

Esempio pratico: La DGSP supporta iniziative per sostenere le esportazioni italiane negli altri paesi, promuovendo una maggiore cooperazione tra le diverse parti del sistema Italia per ottenere risultati importanti per le aziende italiane, come avvenuto in incontri con l'ambasciata italiana negli Stati Uniti. 

and the EU

https://culture.ec.europa.eu/policies/international-cultural-relations and all the linked pages on the left and the links within those pages

ant the EU’s promotion of its fundamental values https://ec.europa.eu/info/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/combatting-discrimination/tackling-discrimination/diversity-and-inclusion-initiatives_en

https://ec.europa.eu/international-partnerships/topics/culture_en

Have a look at:

https://www.youtube.com/user/MinisteroEsteri

or https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTb1JMVIjbXXDvN1ldghMww

then https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPeZ7zYEvms

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF4DmWvl3oo

and https://www.facebook.com/ItalyMFA.it/

and have a look at some of the sites of some of the Italian cultural institutes around the world to see what’s on at the moment in 2025 and again just before the concurso so that you can mention one or two of the best events as good examples of Italian cultural diplomacy.

https://iicberlino.esteri.it/it/

https://iicberlino.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/la-grazia-e-lo-scandalo-ppp-29-10-08-12-2025/

https://iiclondra.esteri.it/it/

https://iiclondra.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/il-patrimonio-culturale-e-museale-della-campania-lesperienza-artecard/

https://iicmosca.esteri.it/it/

https://iicmosca.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/proiezione-de-il-cammino-della-speranza/

https://iicpechino.esteri.it/it/

https://iicpechino.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/steel-of-glory-a-knights-life-of-armour-bladeand-honour/

https://iicwashington.esteri.it/it/

https://iicwashington.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/exhibition-depero-graphic-art-between-italy-united-states/

https://iictokyo.esteri.it/it/

https://iictokyo.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/italian-design-day-2025-il-policarbonato-come-materia-poetica/

https://iicbuenosaires.esteri.it/it/

https://iicbuenosaires.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/mostra-viaggio-in-italia-leta-doro-del-manifesto-turistico-italiano-1920-1950/

and on the site of the ministero and other sites (2024/2025)

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/diplomazia-culturale/2025/03/ulaanbaatar-gli-eventi-per-la-giornata-internazionale-della-donna/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/comunicati/2025/07/nota-congiunta-ministero-degli-affari-esteri-e-della-cooperazione-internazionale-ministero-della-cultura-comune-di-venezia-sul-sito-venezia-e-la-sua-laguna/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/diplomazia-culturale/2025/10/musei-capitolini-mostra-antiche-civilta-del-turkmenistan/

https://cultura.gov.it/evento/giornate-europee-del-patrimonio-2025-apertura-degli-uffizi-sabato-27-e-domenica-28-settembre-2025

https://www.uffizi.it/eventi/giornate-europee-del-patrimonio-2025

https://www.esteri.it/it/servizi-consolari-e-visti/ingressosoggiornoinitalia/richiedere-il-visto-per-il-giubileo/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/retediplomatica/2024/10/buenos-aires-eventi-di-promozione-italea/

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/diplomazia-culturale/2025/06/buenos-aires-pittura-italiana-oggi-in-collaborazione-con-triennale/

sabato 25 ottobre 2025

Italy and the enlarged (or wider) Mediterranean

Background

https://www.esteri.it/mae/resource/doc/2017/12/rapporto-med-maeci-ita.pdf

also for translation practice 2017

https://www.esteri.it/mae/resource/doc/2017/12/rapporto-med-maeci-eng.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=342337479509757

https://feps-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/downloads/publications/study%20on%20the%20mediterranean%20-%206%20-%20dp_hd.pdf 2019

https://www.marina.difesa.it/EN/Conosciamoci/notizie/Documents/01_casardi_en_giugno.pdf 2021

https://www.esteri.it/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/ecfr-1-Crises-in-the-Mediterranean.pdf

https://ciram.unimc.it/it/focus/diritto-geopolitica-mare/italia-sicurezza-spazi-marittimi/litalia-e-la-sicurezza-degli-spazi-marittimi/StrategiaMediterraneo2022.pdf

https://www.difesaonline.it/2022/10/04/geopolitica-analisi-la-teoria-del-mediterraneo-allargato-e-la-geopolitica-classica-italia/ 2022

https://ciram.unimc.it/it/focus/diritto-geopolitica-mare/italia-sicurezza-spazi-marittimi/litalia-e-la-sicurezza-degli-spazi-marittimi/StrategiaMediterraneo2022.pdf

https://www.geopolitica.info/strategia-sicurezza-difesa-mediterraneo/ 2022

https://www.natofoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/NDCF-Italys-stabilising-role-in-the-wider-Mediterranean-Paper-Brasioli-1.pdf 2023

https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/italys-renewed-activism-in-the-wider-mediterranean-a-bet-for-the-future-146369 2023

https://www.esteri.it/en/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/comunicati/2023/06/azione-politica-dellitalia-nel-mediterraneo-allargato/ 2023

https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/italys-wider-mediterranean-is-it-just-about-energy-109073 2023

https://iari.site/2024/09/06/mediterraneo-allargato-dottrina-e-concetto-strategico-per-litalia/#:~:text=L'Ammiraglio%20Domini%20considera%20Mediterraneo,Indiano%20e%20dell'Oceano%20Atlantico.&text=E%20quando%20nascerebbe%3F 2024

https://www.affarinternazionali.it/mediterraneo-allargato-dalle-primavere-arabe-al-piano-mattei/ 2024

https://iari.site/2024/09/30/il-ritorno-alla-multipolarita-nel-mediterraneo-limportanza-geopolitica-e-securitaria/ 2024

https://www.iai.it/en/pubblicazioni/nato-and-southern-neighbourhood-challenges-and-opportunities-italy 2024

https://www.geopolitica.info/la-nato-nel-mediterraneo-allargato/ 2024 NATO

https://www.esteri.it/en/uapsds/analisi-e-programmazione/rome-med-dialogues/ and all links

Recently

Current challenges to Mediterranean stability in 2025 include geopolitical conflicts, energy security concerns, governance issues, climate change impacts, and migration pressures. Escalating conflicts in the Middle East have disrupted energy supply chains and threaten infrastructure, while political instability and governance failures hinder economic development and increase investor uncertainty. Additionally, the region is experiencing intensified climate change effects, and a growing number of displaced people from conflicts in Africa and the Middle East are increasing migration pressures. 

Geopolitical and security challenges

Escalating conflicts: The Israel-Lebanon war and the war in Gaza have strained regional alliances and created significant instability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Hybrid threats: Sea lanes and coastal infrastructure are under threat from hybrid attacks, sabotage, and disruption.

Shifting power dynamics: Competition between regional powers like Turkey and Egypt, alongside instability in countries like Syria and Libya, fuels ongoing tensions. 

Energy security challenges

Conflict impact: Ongoing conflicts risk derailing the Eastern Mediterranean's potential as a key alternative energy supplier for Europe, which was a goal in the wake of the war in Ukraine.

Uncertainty: The security situation casts doubt on future energy exploration and export plans, and impacts existing energy agreements. 

Governance and economic challenges

Government-citizen divide: There is an increasing gap between governments and their citizens in many parts of the region.

Investor uncertainty: Persistent governance problems and regulatory barriers in the MENA region affect investor confidence.

Governance issues: Political instability, weak governance, and the spread of extremist groups remain significant challenges. 

Environmental and migration challenges

Climate change: The Mediterranean is warming faster than the global average, leading to significant environmental impacts.

Migration: Humanitarian crises in Sudan and the Sahel are increasing the number of asylum seekers, with significant numbers heading towards North Africa and Europe.

Environmental degradation: Marine life and ecosystems are under threat from pollution, habitat degradation, and offshore development. 

https://www.esteri.it/en/politica-estera-e-cooperazione-allo-sviluppo/aree_geografiche/mediterr_mo/

https://www.ispionline.it/it/pubblicazione/med-2025-il-mediterraneo-globale-oltre-le-crisi-220698

See also  https://youngdip.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-red-sea-and-maritime-security.html for the Red Sea and maritime security

And https://youngdip.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-black-sea.html for the Black Sea

https://www.federagione.org/2024/07/18/il-presidente-meloni-il-mediterraneo-e-una-priorita-senza-italia-e-libia-non-esiste/

https://www.huffingtonpost.it/blog/2024/08/13/news/il_mediterraneo_allargato_e_la_proiezione_italiana_dalle_primavere_arabe_al_piano_mattei-16687919/

https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/italy-globally-connected-mediterranean-power

https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/rethinking-italys-enlarged-mediterranean-176932

https://www.ispionline.it/it/pubblicazione/med-2025-il-mediterraneo-globale-oltre-le-crisi-220698

https://med.ispionline.it/

and the expanding involvement of Italy in the Indo-Pacific region

https://www.geopolitica.info/italy-indopacific-tilt-2025/

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/italy-can-play-a-role-in-the-indo-pacific-but-must-do-it-its-own-way/

https://www.esteri.it/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/THE_ITALIAN_CONTRIBUTION_TO_THE_EU_STRATEGY_FOR_THE_INDO_PACIFIC.pdf

The EU and the Mediterranean https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/speech_25_792

https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/news/pact-mediterranean-one-sea-one-pact-one-future-shared-ambition-region-2025-10-16_en

https://italy.representation.ec.europa.eu/notizie-ed-eventi/notizie/patto-il-mediterraneo-un-mare-un-patto-un-futuro-unambizione-condivisa-la-regione-2025-10-16_it

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operazione_Irini

https://www.operationirini.eu/

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operazione_Aspides

https://www.marina.difesa.it/cosa-facciamo/per-la-difesa-sicurezza/operazioni-in-corso/Pagine/operazione_aspides.aspx

https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/maritime-security_en

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025JC0009

https://www.iss.europa.eu/publications/briefs/war-footing-securing-critical-energy-infrastructure

https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/energy-security/security-gas-supply_en

NATO operations and activities in the Mediterranean

https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/topics_70759.htm

https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/topics_136233.htm

Italy’s naval and military commitment to the Mediterranean 2025

https://www.startinsight.eu/en/italy-the-2025-2027-defence-white-paper/

https://theaviationist.com/2025/10/10/italy-2025-defense-plan/

https://www.difesa.it/eng/primo-piano/operation-aspides-italy-takes-over-from-greece-in-command-of-the-eu-mission-in-the-red-sea/74606.html

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operazione_Mediterraneo_Sicuro

https://www.difesa.it/operazionimilitari/op-intern-corso/operazione-mediterraneo-sicuro/index/27208.html

https://www.marina.difesa.it/media-cultura/Notiziario-online/Pagine/20250516_MedStrike_2025.aspx

Italia and some of its economic and cooperation partners in the Mediterranean

https://www.cidob.org/en/publications/north-african-energy-links-are-redrawn-italy-becomes-europes-southern-gas-hub

https://eccoclimate.org/it/transizione-energetica-nel-mediterraneo-ripensare-i-partenariati-tra-italia-e-nord-africa/

https://www.terna.it/en/projects/projects-common-interest/italy-tunisia-interconnection

https://www.governo.it/en/articolo/president-meloni-s-press-statement-fifth-italy-algeria-intergovernmental-summit/29333

https://www.ecomondo.com/en/news-detail/italy-egypt-a-growing-partnership-economic-cooperation-and-investment-relations?newsId=2588888

https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2025/05/203791/ocp-italys-financial-group-sace-announce-e365-million-green-financing-agreement/

https://en.ilsole24ore.com/art/renewed-libya-memorandum-how-migrant-rules-work-minniti-wrote-AH974MCD

https://decode39.com/11520/turkey-italy-a-partnership-bridging-the-mediterranean/

Italy and the Adriatic/Balkans region

https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/approfondimenti/2023/02/un-piano-strategico-per-la-regione-adriatico-balcanica/

https://www.esteri.it/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Piano-Regione-Adriatico-Balcanica_DEF-2.pdf

https://www.rainews.it/articoli/2023/01/meloni-allue-lallargamento-ai-balcani-occidentali-deve-diventare-una-priorit-88d02298-ecfe-4d43-ac93-28144c6672fe.html

https://www.cespi.it/it/eventi-attualita/dibattiti/la-ue-i-balcani-la-scommessa-dellallargamento/limpegno-dellitalia-nei

Migration

https://en.unav.edu/web/global-affairs/migracion-en-el-mediterraneo-central-accciones-de-la-ue-y-de-italia

Italy's current strategy to control Mediterranean migration combines external policies like the "Rome Process" to partner with origin countries, an EU-level focus on pushing for a broader EU strategy that emphasizes strengthening external border controls and partnerships with third countries (with fewer calls for internal EU redistribution) and internal measures such as multi-year "Flow Decrees" to manage legal migration and create pathways for workers. This is a new, multi-year approach to migration that sets regular entry quotas for foreign workers in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and caregiving, aiming to balance economic needs with reduced irregular migration.

Moreover, the government aims to use its economic and migration diplomacy to build influence in Africa and address the root causes of instability, as can be seen with the Mattei Plan while strengthening and streamlining legal pathways for both seasonal and non-seasonal workers through multi-year decrees. 

Italy and Africa – the Mattei Plan

https://www.ispionline.it/it/pubblicazione/il-piano-mattei-rilanciare-lafrica-policy-dellitalia-182414?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMInqCb5s-LiQMVMo2DBx3zWBkvEAAYASAAEgLF_PD_BwE Download the paper

https://eccoclimate.org/it/summit-italia-africa-opportunita-e-rischi-del-piano-mattei/

https://eccoclimate.org/the-italy-africa-summit-opportunities-and-risks-of-the-mattei-plan/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFMYw0qt6vc

Italy and the Sahel

https://www.esteri.it/en/politica-estera-e-cooperazione-allo-sviluppo/aree_geografiche/africa/sahel-e-africa-occidentale/

https://www.ispionline.it/it/pubblicazione/italia-in-sahel-tra-priorita-nazionali-e-politiche-europee-135187#:~:text=Le%20forze%20italiane%20sono%20infatti,EUNAVFOR%20Somalia%2C%20EUCAP%2DSahel%2C

https://www.aics.gov.it/news/dialoghi-dallafrica-2025-limpegno-aics-nelle-aree-di-crisi-del-sahel-e-corno-dafrica/?lang=en

Italy and Israel

https://www.liberoquotidiano.it/news/esteri/40608651/meloni-telefona-netanyahu-attacchi-unifil-inaccettabili.html

https://www.esteri.it/en/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/comunicati/2025/08/appello-dellitalia-e-degli-stati-ue-a-israele-per-pieno-accesso-degli-operatori-umanitari-e-delle-ong-a-gaza/

of general interest

https://formiche.net/2022/06/strategia-italia-difesa-mediterraneo/#content

https://www.internazionale.it/ultime-notizie/2023/10/04/riforma-migranti-unione-europea

https://www.ansa.it/ansamed/it/notizie/rubriche/nazioni/2023/10/06/meloni-e-il-patto-a-6-sui-migranti-altro-che-isolati_aa3d85cb-876b-4d7c-aed8-f0f64dc324c8.html

https://www.rainews.it/articoli/2023/09/vertice-med9-migranti-meloni-a-malta-senza-risposte-strutturali-tutti-quanti-verranno-travolti--516242f5-15f6-43e2-ab34-4f1f84bbe5ea.html

https://www.rainews.it/articoli/2023/09/migranti-meloni-a-malta-cerca-sponde-tra-i-paesi-del-med9-e-chiede-coesione-20504a76-6c3b-4b8e-8146-179e53591a00.html

https://www.governo.it/it/articolo/intervento-del-presidente-meloni-ai-dialoghi-sul-mediterraneo-di-roma/21174

https://www.governo.it/en/articolo/president-meloni-s-speech-rome-med-mediterranean-dialogues/21227

https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2023/01/24/giorgia-meloni-launches-her-mediterranean-policy-in-algiers_6012947_4.html

https://www.ansa.it/nuova_europa/en/news/countries/greece/2023/08/31/meloni-mitsotakis-mediterranean-axis-for-immigration_e8017a2b-d3d1-4835-a0d8-cd5790f77909.html

https://formiche.net/2023/01/algeria-turchia-libia-mediterraneo-mezran/

https://www.ansa.it/ansamed/it/notizie/rubriche/politica/2023/01/23/meloni-ad-algeri-mediterraneo-e-strategico-per-litalia_0ef34edc-b83a-4b38-a974-4f26ee6c8614.html

https://atalayar.com/en/content/meloni-resumes-draghis-agenda-algeria-we-will-be-gas-hub-europe

https://www.governo.it/it/media/visita-del-presidente-meloni-libia/21615

https://tg24.sky.it/mondo/2023/09/09/terremoto-marocco-reazioni

https://www.governo.it/it/articolo/meloni-incontra-il-primo-ministro-dello-stato-disraele-netanyahu/22026

https://www.ansa.it/sito/notizie/mondo/africa/2023/10/21/-meloni-a-netanyahu-combattere-antisemitismo-oggi-come-ieri-_c38deda0-97a3-4538-b943-ad07be6be64b.html

https://www.ilsole24ore.com/art/meloni-ad-algeri-piano-far-diventare-l-italia-l-hub-energetico-dell-europa-AExCABZC

https://www.ilpost.it/2023/07/20/zaki-meloni-al-sisi/

https://consizmir.esteri.it/it/litalia-e-turchia/

https://finanza.lastampa.it/News/2023/07/12/incontro-meloni-erdogan-a-vilnius-la-turchia-continuera-la-sua-forte-cooperazione-con-litalia/MzVfMjAyMy0wNy0xMl9UTEI

https://www.ilfoglio.it/esteri/2023/07/19/news/al-sisi-concede-la-grazia-a-patrick-zaki-5515445/

https://www.fpri.org/article/2023/09/a-long-hot-summer-for-eastern-mediterranean-gas-politics/

https://www.eni.com/en-IT/media/press-release/2023/01/eni-announces-a-new-gas-discovery-in-the-eastern-mediterranean-sea-offshore-egypt.html

https://decode39.com/5313/italy-nato-monitoring-russia-ships-med/

https://www.iai.it/en/pubblicazioni/food-energy-nexus-and-italy-morocco-cooperation

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/italy-wants-more-money-africa-curb-arrivals-europe-2023-02-06/

https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/italys-renewed-activism-in-the-wider-mediterranean-a-bet-for-the-future-146369

https://www.esteri.it/en/politica-estera-e-cooperazione-allo-sviluppo/aree_geografiche/africa/sahel-e-africa-occidentale/

2022 and earlier

https://www.ispionline.it/sites/default/files/pubblicazioni/ispi-pb_italy_africa_sahel_casola_2021.pdf                                   

https://feps-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/downloads/publications/study%20on%20the%20mediterranean%20-%207%20-%20pp_hd.pdf

https://decode39.com/3569/italian-defence-strategy-mediterranean/

https://feps-europe.eu/wp-content/uploads/downloads/publications/study%20on%20the%20mediterranean%20-%206%20-%20dp_hd.pdf

https://www.iai.it/it/pubblicazioni/re-discovering-italys-mediterranean-vocation

https://www.med-or.org/en/news/la-strategia-italiana-ed-europea-per-un-nuovo-protagonismo-del-mediterraneo-nel-mondo

https://cepa.org/article/rome-alone-italys-mediterranean-defense-strategy/

https://www.huffingtonpost.it/esteri/2022/05/14/news/la_strategia_italiana_ed_europea_per_un_nuovo_protagonismo_del_mediterraneo-9390975/

https://www.repubblica.it/politica/2022/06/09/news/deterrenza_intelligence_cambia_strategia_italiana_mediterraneo-353152526/

https://pagineesteri.it/2021/12/31/africa/italia-in-mali-assieme-ai-golpisti-per-fermare-i-flussi-migratori-e-stabilizzare-il-sahel/

https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/01/21/italys-mediterranean-belt-and-road/

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_426

https://www.esteri.it/en/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/interviste/2021/12/di-maio-il-mediterraneo-torni-a-essere-spazio-di-dialogo-la-repubblica/

https://www.esteri.it/en/politica-estera-e-cooperazione-allo-sviluppo/aree_geografiche/africa/sahel-e-africa-occidentale/

https://www.ispionline.it/sites/default/files/pubblicazioni/ispi-pb_italy_africa_sahel_casola_2021.pdf                                   

https://www.med-or.org/en/news/italia-e-marocco-un-partenariato-strategico-per-il-mediterraneo-allargato-e-lafrica

Italy and Mediterranean cultures

https://iicalgeri.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/italia-culture-mediterraneo/

https://iicalgeri.esteri.it/it/gli_eventi/calendario/slim-settimana-della-lingua-italiana-nel-mondo/

https://www.esteri.it/en/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/approfondimenti/2017/10/italia-culture-mediterraneo-2/

https://www.freiheit.org/spain-italy-portugal-and-mediterranean-dialogue/mediterranean-sea-cultures-adapted-each-person

https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/topics_136233.htm

to watch

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8W0kCXuMJX4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVGyY_at20Y

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kx39dXlbmg8