Introduction to the CGIE

The General Council of Italians Abroad (known by its Italian acronym CGIE, i.e. "Consiglio Generale degli Italiani all'Estero"), established under Law no. 368 of November 6, 1989 (as amended by Law no.198 of June 18, 1998) and ruled out by the enforcement regulation pursuant to the Presidential Decree no. 329 of September 14, 1998, serves as an advisory body for the Italian Government and Parliament on major topics of interest to Italians living outside Italy.

It derives its representational legitimacy from the several Com.It.Es throughout the world, whose members are empowered to elect CGIE members on behalf of Italians residing abroad. The CGIE represents an important step in the process of developing active "participation" of Italians residing abroad in the country's political life, while serving as the fundamental link connecting Italian communities with Italy and its institutions. The GCIE is chaired by Italy's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Franco Frattini.

The Secretary-General in office is Elio Carozza. The Chief of Executive Secretary is Councillor Stefano Verrecchia

The CGIE comprises 94 councillors of whom 65 are elected directly by Italians living abroad and 29 are appointed by the Government..
Its institutional bodies include the Chair's Committee (composed of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Secretary-General, four Deputy Secretaries-General and eleven representatives of the different geographical areas), seven Thematic Commissions, three Continental Commissions, the Work Groups and the Plenary Assembly.
The CGIE was completely renewed on June 26 2004, while the elections for internal offices were held on July 27 2004.