Italy

Mariangela Zappia stands as a distinguished figure in Italian diplomacy, currently serving as the Ambassador of Italy to the United States of America. Her appointment marks a significant milestone, as she is the first woman in the history of Italy to hold this prestigious position in Washington, D.C. This groundbreaking achievement underscores her exceptional career, spanning four decades of dedicated service to her nation on the global stage.

Ambassador Zappia's journey in diplomacy is characterized by a series of pioneering roles. Before her arrival in Washington, she made history as the first female Ambassador of Italy to the United Nations in New York, where she served with distinction from 2018 to 2021. During her tenure at the UN, she was deeply engaged in a wide array of critical international issues, representing Italy's commitment to multilateralism and playing a key role in discussions on peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights. Her insightful contributions and diplomatic acumen were widely recognized within the international community.

Prior to her assignment in New York, Ambassador Zappia held another pivotal and history-making role as the first woman Permanent Representative of Italy to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Brussels from 2014 to 2016. In this crucial position, she navigated complex security challenges and fostered strong alliances, demonstrating Italy's unwavering commitment to transatlantic security and cooperation. Her leadership at NATO was marked by her strategic thinking and ability to build consensus among member states.

Between these significant ambassadorships, from 2016 to 2018, Ambassador Zappia served as the Diplomatic Advisor to the Italian Prime Minister and G7/G20 Sherpa. In this high-profile role, she provided strategic counsel to the Prime Minister on foreign policy matters and played a central part in Italy's engagement with the world's leading economies. Her work as Sherpa involved intensive negotiations and coordination on global economic and political agendas, showcasing her deep understanding of international affairs and her exceptional negotiation skills.

Ambassador Zappia's extensive experience also includes her tenure as the Head of the European Union Delegation to the UN and other International Organizations in Geneva from 2011 to 2014. In this capacity, she represented the collective interests of the European Union on a broad spectrum of global issues, further solidifying her reputation as a seasoned multilateral diplomat. Earlier in her career in Geneva, she served as Minister Plenipotentiary at the Permanent Mission of Italy to the UN and other International Organizations from 2007 to 2011, where she honed her expertise in international law and diplomacy.

Her commitment to addressing critical global challenges is further evidenced by her special assignment as coordinator of major events under the Italian Presidency of the G8 in 2009. In this role, she spearheaded initiatives focused on crucial issues such as violence against women and the women, peace, and security agenda, demonstrating her dedication to advancing gender equality and human rights on the international stage.

Prior to her assignments in Geneva, Ambassador Zappia served as the Head of the Mediterranean, Middle East and Balkans Department for Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome in 2007. This role highlighted her understanding of regional dynamics and her commitment to fostering development and stability in these important areas.

A testament to her dedication to both career and family, Ambassador Zappia took a career break from 2003 to 2006 to focus on her family.

Her earlier diplomatic postings include First Counselor at the Permanent Mission of Italy to the UN in New York (2000-2003), where she first gained significant experience within the UN system. She also served as First Counselor at the Italian Embassy in Brussels (1997-2000), further deepening her understanding of European affairs. In Rome, from 1994 to 1997, she held the position of Counselor at the Press and Information Service and in the Office of the Spokesperson of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, showcasing her communication and public diplomacy skills. Her diplomatic journey began with postings at the Consulate General of Italy in New York (1990-1993) and at the Italian Embassy in Dakar (1986-1990), providing her with a foundational understanding of international relations across diverse cultural and political landscapes.

Ambassador Zappia's academic background has provided a strong foundation for her distinguished career. She holds a master’s degree in Political Science and International Relations, as well as a post-graduate degree in Diplomatic and International Relations, both from the prestigious University of Florence. Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, she has also undertaken periodic high-level training courses on diplomatic practice and management at the Diplomatic Academy of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome.

Beyond her official duties, Ambassador Zappia is a respected voice on Italian foreign policy and global issues. She has published on significant topics such as the Reform of the Security Council and Italy's contribution to UN peacekeeping operations. She is also a sought-after speaker at various forums, sharing her insights on multilateralism and pressing global challenges.

Fluent in English and French, with a good command of Spanish, Ambassador Zappia's linguistic skills enhance her ability to engage effectively with a diverse international community.

Her exceptional contributions to Italy have been recognized with the prestigious decoration of “Commendatore” (Commander) of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. She is also the recipient of the “Mela D’Oro” award (2019) by the Fondazione Marisa Bellisario, which honors women who have excelled in public institutions, and the “Top Diplomacy” award (2022) by the Fondazione Guido Carli, further acknowledging her significant achievements in the field of diplomacy.

On a personal note, Ambassador Zappia is the proud mother of two children, Claire and Christian. Her remarkable career and personal achievements make her an inspiring figure and a dedicated representative of Italy to the United States.