Safeguard consular rights
To safeguard the interests and rights of the members of the NYC-based Consular Corps, as defined by international law and established practices.
Established 1925 · Incorporated 2015
The Society
The world's largest consular corps — Consulates, Consulates General and Honorary Consulates based in New York City, united since 1925.
1925
Founded
0+
Years of service
0
Global regions
2015
Incorporated 501(c)(7)
Who we are
A cornerstone of international diplomacy in New York since 1925
The Society of Foreign Consuls in New York was founded in 1925 and is incorporated under the laws of the State of New York. It exists to promote friendship and cooperation among the members of the consular corps, to assist its members in the discharge of their consular duties, and to maintain cordial relations with the authorities of the City and State of New York.
After ninety years as an unincorporated association, the Society incorporated in April 2015 as a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit organization under the laws of the State of New York. Membership is open to all foreign consular representatives in New York accredited by their governments to the United States of America.
“A beacon of international unity in the heart of New York City.”
The Society of Foreign Consulsin New York, Inc.
Our mission
Twofold, and unchanged
Advance relations
To promote cultural and economic relations between our respective countries, the City of New York, and our host nation, the United States of America.
A century in New York
From 1925 to today
1925
The Society is founded
Consular officers accredited to New York form an association to defend consular privileges and speak with one voice.
1925–2015
Ninety years of service
Nine decades as an unincorporated association at the centre of the world's largest consular community.
2015
Incorporated in New York
In April 2015 the Society incorporated as a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit organization under the laws of the State of New York.
Today
The world's largest consular corps
Consulates, Consulates General and Honorary Consulates across New York City, working with the U.S. Department of State and the Mayor's Office for International Affairs.
Membership
What membership offers
Advocacy and protection
A unified voice that promotes and protects members' interests, rights and privileges under international law — from consular access to diplomatic security — through dialogue with the relevant U.S. authorities. The Society does not provide legal representation or act as counsel.
Networking and collaboration
Exclusive gatherings including the Annual Assembly in June, periodic Executive Committee meetings and extraordinary sessions, alongside city and state officials.
Educational resources
Seminars and forums on immigration, document fraud detection, airport protocols and consular practice, delivered with the Department of State and NYC International Affairs.
Regional representation
Every member country belongs to one of seven global regions, opening a pathway to nomination to the Executive Committee and to leadership of the Society.
Partnership opportunities
Individuals and organizations who wish to support the Society without full voting rights may join as Partner Members, with access to select events.
Institutional partners
Close collaboration with the U.S. Department of State's Office of Foreign Missions and the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs.
Governance
Seven regions, one Executive Committee
The Society is steered by an Executive Committee of elected representatives from seven global regions — two members per region, one principal and one alternate. The Committee elects the President, Deputy President, Treasurer and Secretary. Leadership rotates annually, with the Presidency cycling through the regions in alphabetical order. All Executive Committee members serve without compensation.
01Africa
02Caribbean and Central America
03East Asia and Western Pacific
04Europe Group 1 (A–L)
05Europe Group 2 (M–Z)
06North and South America
07West and South Asia
Annual Assembly
Every June
Elections, financial review and general business. Notice is given at least two weeks in advance.
Extraordinary meetings
As required
Called for urgent matters following Annual Assembly protocol, with at least three days' notice.
Periodic meetings
Convened by the Executive Committee
Non-Executive members may request attendance by written demand. Quorum for the Executive Committee is seven members.
“By joining us, you become part of a legacy that has championed consular rights and fostered global connections for nearly 100 years.”
Ambassador Vladimir Božović, PhD
Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York · President of the Society