23/09/2025
Press Release
Romanian Geographical Society, officially recognized as a PUBLIC UTILITY ASSOCIATION
Bucharest, September 17, 2025 – By Government Decision no. 750/2025, published in the Official Gazette no. 849 of September 16, 2025, the Romanian Geographical Society (SGR) has been officially recognized as a PUBLIC UTILITY ASSOCIATION.
This recognition confirms the essential role that SGR has played for 150 years in the development of geographical education, scientific research, and the promotion of spatial thinking in Romania. Founded in 1875 by Prince Carol I, SGR is one of the oldest scientific organizations in the world, serving as a reference point for generations of geographers, teachers, researchers, and decision-makers.
Benefits of the Romanian Geographical Society under its PUBLIC UTILITY status:
• The right to be granted free use of public property necessary for its activities;
• The right to receive support from local public authorities to be provided with headquarters space, according to availability, under the law;
• The right to be allocated land, when possible, for the construction of facilities necessary for its activities;
• The right to mention in all its official documents that the Romanian Geographical Society is recognized by the Government of Romania as a PUBLIC UTILITY ASSOCIATION. This right also applies to SGR branches with legal personality, which must state that they operate under the authority of the Romanian Geographical Society.
• Increased credibility and institutional visibility in relation to authorities, partners, and funders;
• Easier access to resources and funding for educational, research, and geography popularization projects;
• Strengthened role of SGR in supporting public policies on territorial development, environmental protection, and education.
The role of SGR and geography in society
Geography is a science, not just a school subject. It is a fundamental tool for understanding the relationship between people and the environment, for territorial planning, and for making responsible decisions regarding sustainable development. Over time, the Romanian Geographical Society has contributed to the development of school atlases, teacher training, the organization of scientific congresses, and the promotion of spatial thinking among young people.
With this new status, SGR takes on a strengthened role in Romanian society, becoming a strategic partner for authorities, academia, schools, and communities. Our mission remains to support geographical education, scientific research, and the application of geographical knowledge in everyday life.
This recognition crowns the vision of the Kings of Romania regarding geography, the efforts of entire generations of geographers, and represents a commitment to the future. "We will continue to support geographical education, research, and the application of spatial knowledge for community development," stated Prof. Corneliu Iatu, PhD, President of the Romanian Geographical Society.
About the Romanian Geographical Society
Founded in 1875, the Romanian Geographical Society brings together university professors, researchers, teachers, students, and geography enthusiasts. Its mission is to promote geographical research, education, and spatial thinking, contributing to Romania’s sustainable development and its integration into the international scientific community.
The Romanian Geographical Society has branches in every county of the country, 26 of which are registered as SGR branches with legal personality.
Contact:
Romanian Geographical Society, Tax ID 5223119
Nicolae Bălcescu Blvd. no. 1, Faculty of Geography – University of Bucharest
Room 311, 3rd Floor
Official website: www.geo-sgr.ro