The mafia is also known as Cosa Nostra and in broad terms, we can say that it highlights a criminal “syndicate”. It emerged in the middle of 19^th century, in Sicilia. The “syndicate” is formed from different mafia families which compose criminal groups. These families function under a specific structure and code of conduct. Each of these groups is known as a “family” and it usually claims the suzerainty over a specific territory. Over the years, the concept has extended and we are able to distinguish different types of mafia organizations all over the world.

Structure and Roles

As any other organization, the mafia family has a specific structure. This proves a coherent hierarchy which needs to be respected by all members. This way, the mafia family presents the following levels:

§  Boss (capo di tutti capi): He actually is the “boss of bosses” and takes direct contact with his consigliere and the underboss. He is the one who makes the decisions about clan’s activity and relations with other clans

§  Underboss: This person gives direct orders to caporegimes, who are actually the captains of the organization. Most families have three caporegimes.

§  Caporegime: The caporegime passes the orders to soldiers

§  Soldiers: These people give orders to the family’s associates

However, this structure depends from one family to another and in some cases the hierarchy is not respected. As well, all the members of the family have to execute specific orders.

Who Are the Associates?

It is quite clear who are the boss, consigliere, underboss, caporegime, and soldiers. Most of the times, these persons are relatives or very close friends and partners. The main question remains who are their associates and why are these people willing to serve the Mafia family’s cause?

These people work for the clan but they are not treated as members of the respective family. And the reason why they are not considered as family is that the clan’s members do not trust them enough. They are only good to serve the clan occasionally and usually they are generously paid for their services. Most of the times, the “associates” are corrupted officials and other persons who are willing to help the Mafia family to reach its goals