RULES AND FUNCTIONING OF THE GUIDO DORSO INTERNATIONAL AWARD

Art. 1) The international association “Guido Dorso” promotes sustainable and inclusive development processes in various territories—such as Southern Italy—within a Mediterranean and European vision. It does so through cultural initiatives, publishing, and socio-economic research and studies. As part of its development promotion efforts, the Association organizes annually, in collaboration with the magazine Politica meridionalista – Civiltà d’Europa, the “Guido Dorso” International Award.

The award identifies individuals and institutions, at the national or international level, who are tangible examples of development. These are highlighted as best practices to encourage and inspire especially younger generations to adopt cultural values and proactive behavior that support the economic and social growth of territories in the Euro-Mediterranean context. While the award is unified in purpose, it is divided into sections and carried out in two sessions: the Southern Italy Session and the Mediterranean Session. The Southern Italy session is usually held in Rome, while the Mediterranean session is held in Naples.

SOUTHERN ITALY SESSION

Art. 2) The “Guido Dorso” Award (Ordinary Section) is assigned to: a) the author(s) of an unpublished work/master’s thesis that highlights the cultural, economic, and productive potential of Southern Italy or the Mediterranean area; b) the author(s) of an executive research project, active for at least two years, that promotes the socio-economic recovery of Southern Italy.

Submissions must be sent by July 1st of each year via email to info@assodorso.it, in digital format (PDF/Word), accompanied by:

1. a copy of the author’s/project manager’s ID and CV. For a thesis, the author must be under 30 years old; for a project, under 35;
2. written authorization from the author for potential full or partial publication of the work and a declaration confirming the work is unpublished and free of third-party rights;
3. a certification from the university if the submission is a master’s thesis.

Art. 3) Within the award, Special Sections are established. The Award’s Judging Commission may also consider documented nominations of potential recipients submitted by the Scientific Committee and other institutions or associations. Nominations must be submitted to the Commission’s Secretary (segretariogenerale@assodorso.it) no later than March 15 of each year. The goal of these sections is to bring to the attention of young generations prominent figures from the fields of public service, politics, economics, scientific research, culture, journalism, publishing (traditional and digital), and the Third Sector—those who have significantly contributed through thought, work, actions, and influence to the social, economic, cultural, and institutional development of Southern Italy.

The International Section recognizes individuals born in Southern Italy—or descendants of parents or grandparents from the South—who, through their cultural and professional achievements, have honored their land of origin. This award aims to strengthen the Southern Italian community abroad, starting from its roots. A Memorial Section is also dedicated to communities that actively preserve and promote their historical and cultural roots.

Art. 4) Special sections may also be reserved for students in lower and upper secondary schools, authors of educational materials focused on Southern Italian themes, and institutions that have made outstanding contributions in the fields of education and training.

Art. 5) As part of the Award, a Special Recognition of the President of the Republic may be granted—on the proposal of the President of the Dorso Association—to a scientific, economic, or cultural institution that promotes the development of Southern Italy.

MEDITERRANEAN SESSION

Art. 6) The Mediterranean Section: Italy—and especially its South—has for centuries been the geographical heart of the Mediterranean macro-area, a land of landing, hospitality, and passage for many peoples from diverse shores. This section seeks to recognize and celebrate the significant efforts of individuals, institutions, or organizations that have stood out in addressing the socio-economic challenges of the macro-area. Knowledge alone is not enough—greater emphasis must be placed on the commitment of individuals and institutions who work daily for a Mediterranean of peace and equal development. This recognition is important for highlighting efforts and innovations that go beyond local challenges, inspiring others to follow their lead. This award encourages collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, the private sector, and local communities—creating the “Ambassadors of the Mediterranean”, modern-day Cyreneans of peaceful and democratic development in the region. Such cooperation is essential to addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of the macro-region, such as poverty, inequality, migration, and environmental sustainability.

Two awards are foreseen in this section:

• One to a public or private entity operating in the political, cultural, or entrepreneurial fields;
• One to a person or entity from the fields of economics, scientific research, or journalism.

The individuals or institutions, regardless of nationality, must have significantly contributed—with their commitment, influence, ideas, and actions—to supporting knowledge, development, and progress in the Mediterranean macro-region. The awardees’ speeches during the award ceremony will be published by the Association. The award ceremony is held in Naples, Italy. Candidate selection and the event are organized in collaboration with the City of Naples and the University of Naples “Federico II”, involving other cultural and scientific bodies operating in Southern Italy.

THE COMMISSION

Art. 7) The Judging Commission is composed of representatives from Italian state bodies responsible for national and international development processes—especially in Southern Italy—as well as:

• the President of the National Research Council (CNR),
• the Rector of the University of Naples “Federico II”,
• the President of the Scientific Committee of the Dorso Association,
• the President of the Banco di Napoli Foundation,
• the President and Secretary General of the Dorso Association,
• and representatives from institutions significant for the growth and development of Southern Italy, both nationally and locally.

In case of exceptional circumstances, a member may request to be replaced during some sessions by a representative of the institution they lead. The Commission’s decision is final and not subject to appeal.

THE AWARD

Art. 8) Special section winners receive an artistic bronze trophy created exclusively by sculptor Giuseppe Pirozzi. Winners of the ordinary section receive an artistic plaque.

Art. 9) No proxies or representatives are allowed to collect the award. Travel and accommodation expenses for the winners (or those selected by the Judging Commission) are their own responsibility.

FINAL CLAUSES

Art. 10) The organizing committee is not responsible for accidents or damages that may occur to attendees en route to the award ceremony—even in cases where a reimbursement of expenses as per Art. 8 is provided.

Art. 11) Any disputes concerning the rules of this General Regulation or the specific calls for each edition will fall under the jurisdiction of the Court of Naples.