Valerio De Cesaris

Valerio De Cesaris is a Full Professor of Contemporary History at the Department of International Human and Social Sciences (SUSI), University for Foreigners of Perugia. He has held various leadership roles at the university and was elected Rector in March 2021, taking office on April 23, 2021. His academic work centers on the intersection of religion, politics, and society in modern Italy.

His research focuses on key themes in 20th-century Italian and European history, including the Catholic Church’s relationship with Fascism, the development of anti-Semitism and racism, and the history of immigration to Italy. He is particularly known for his in-depth analysis of Catholic responses to racial laws and Jewish persecution, as well as the transformation of Italian society through migration. His work combines rigorous archival research with broad cultural interpretation.

The most recent publications reflect a consistent scholarly trajectory, emphasizing the moral and institutional dynamics of the Church during Fascism and the evolving narrative of immigration in Italy. His books and articles engage with both national and international audiences, often published in multilingual academic contexts. The recurring themes include religious responsibility, historical memory, and social inclusion.

He is an active member of several scholarly organizations: Sissco (Italian Society for the Study of Contemporary History), where he served on the board from 2019 to 2022; the Luigi Sturzo Institute in Rome; and the steering committee of the World History Academy. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his editorial roles and institutional memberships reflect high academic standing.

De Cesaris has supervised no publicly listed students but teaches Contemporary History across multiple degree programs, including International and Advertising Communication, Digital Humanities, and Social Sciences for Sustainability. He is involved in national and international research groups and contributes to public discourse on migration and historical memory. He leads academic initiatives reflecting his dual role as scholar and administrator.