The International Association “Guido Dorso,” founded in Naples in 1970, has among its statutory aims the encouragement and promotion of interest, study, and research and dissemination activities aimed at supporting processes of sustainable and inclusive development, especially in areas lagging behind in growth such as Southern Italy. To achieve this goal, the Association promotes study, training, and publishing activities on relevant topics and research within the broader Mediterranean, European, and international contexts. Embracing a network-based approach, the Association collaborates with other scientific and cultural bodies and institutions. Since 1972, the Association has published the cultural and economic journal Politica Meridionalista – Civiltà d’Europa. Since 1970, it has also organized the annual “Guido Dorso International Award”, selecting candidates among individuals and organizations distinguished for their efforts in promoting sustainable development in the social, cultural, and economic fields.
The Award’s Two Sessions
- The “Mezzogiorno Session”
Held annually in Rome during the month of October, this session awards individuals or institutions that have contributed to the social, cultural, or economic development of Southern Italy, within a national and European vision. The Award is divided into several categories (Institutions, Culture, Enterprise, Research, etc.). The Dorso Award, with its interdisciplinary nature, also aims to highlight young scholars and researchers from Southern Italy. Since 2005, the President of the Italian Republic has granted an official Representation Plaque, specially minted by the State Mint, which the Dorso Association annually bestows upon a scientific, economic, or cultural institution working to advance the development of the South. The award ceremony is held at Palazzo Giustiniani in Rome, the representative seat of the Italian Senate.
- The “Mediterranean Session”
Held in Naples, typically in June or July, and organized in cooperation with the City of Naples and the University of Naples “Federico II”, this session recognizes individuals or institutions for study or relational activities that contribute to the development of the Mediterranean area. The focus is on promoting cohesion and integration in the social, cultural, and economic spheres.
The Award and the Presidents of the Republic
Rome – December 6, 1984 – The President of the Republic, Pertini, receives in audience at the Quirinale the jury and recipients of the 10th edition of the Premio Dorso, with Antonio Maccanico and Elisa Dorso present. In the photo, from left: Salverino De Vito, Andrea Amatucci, Pasquale Saraceno, and Nicola Squitieri.
Palazzo Giustiniani – January 20, 2003 – The President of the Republic, Ciampi, and the President of the Senate, Pera, with the jury and recipients of the 24th edition of the Premio Dorso.
07/11/2019 – Meeting at the Quirinale between the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, and the Guido Dorso Association for the 40th anniversary of the Premio Dorso.
