From 2 to 6 April 2025, the Order of Malta Romania took part in the 31st International Hospitaller’s Conference of the Order of Malta, held this year in Vienna, Austria.

The Order of Malta Romania was represented by the Romanian Relief Corps (SAMR), namely Romanian Hospitaller, Mihály Dénes KM; SAMR Secretary General, Tischler Ferenc KM; and SAMR Deputy Secretary General, Ms Anca Simu.

The Grand Master, HMEH Fra’ John Dunlap, in his address at the opening of the Conference stated, “This gathering is a testament to the Order of Malta’s enduring commitment to serving those in need, advocating for justice, and upholding the dignity of every human being.”

During the course of the Conference, the Hospitallers reflected on the emergency and conflict scenarios in which the Order of Malta is present—with its over 100,000 volunteers and over 50,000 full-time staff around the world. In particular, the Order of Malta, through its international relief agency Malteser International, are working intensively to provide medical assistance with a planned opening of a Primary Health Center in Gaza, in collaboration with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The discussions addressed the humanitarian situations in Ukraine, Lebanon, and Myanmar, among others, with expert interventions exploring challenges and responses to needs in areas affected by conflict and crisis. Ms Simu also addressed the Conference about the efforts in counter trafficking and other humanitarian works of the Order in Romania.

The Grand Hospitaller of the Order, HE Josef D. Blotz KMOb, confirmed the Order’s unwavering commitment to those in need around the globe, “Our common goal remains to help and support the most vulnerable among our brethren. Through our collective efforts, may we illuminate new pathways of hope, solidarity, and resilience.”

The 32nd International Hospitaller’s Conference will be held in 2026 in Cologne, Germany.

Photo credit: Thomas Meyer/APACE Media and Order of Malta, 2025.