Rotarians from 21 European international clubs (that is, clubs with “International” in their name) from in total 15 countries gathered in Vienna to discuss new forms of cooperation, innovative projects, and the future of Rotary in a changing world.
The working sessions brought many inspiring ideas, the exchange of experiences strengthened the bonds between clubs, and a festive dinner concluded the weekend in a spirit of unity and friendship.

A Shared Vision and New Partnerships

The meeting of Europe’s international Rotary clubs took place in Vienna under the auspices of Rotary Club Vienna International, renowned for its long-term projects supporting women and children, integration, and education.
The hosts were joined by Rotary Club Berlin International, RC Vienna Maria Theresia International, and RC Salzburg International, who together with other clubs formed a colorful mosaic of the European Rotary community.

Participants represented the following clubs:
RC Prague International (Czech Republic), RC Bratislava International (Slovakia), RC Ljubljana International (Slovenia), RC Zagreb International (Croatia), RC Trieste International, RC Milano Cordusio, RC Rome International (Italy), RC Budapest City International (Hungary), RC Geneva International (Switzerland), RC Utrecht International (The Netherlands), RC Hamburg International, RC Munich International, RC Dresden International, RC Starnberg International, and RC Possenhofen Castle International (Germany).

Discussions on Cooperation and the Future of Rotary

During the Saturday working sessions, delegates focused on strengthening international collaboration, supporting youth and education, and encouraging innovation in fundraising and club activities.
Discussions also touched upon the possibility of establishing a joint framework for cooperation – the so-called “Vienna Manifesto”, which could in the future define the principles and priorities of international Rotary clubs across Europe.

Another key topic was the idea of joint Global Grants, enabling clubs to support humanitarian projects across continents more efficiently.
Several clubs presented their successful initiatives – from supporting children without parental care and promoting inclusion to creative ways of combining culture and charity.

A Viennese-Style Networking Evening

The gala dinner, with tables named after Rotary’s core values – Leadership, Unity, Service, Hope, Fellowship, Innovation, Peace, Inspiration, and Integrity – offered an excellent opportunity for informal conversation, new friendships, and reflection on the day’s achievements.
In an atmosphere of hospitality and fellowship, participants also shared plans for next year’s meeting in Rome, which is already shaping up to be a much-anticipated event.

The organizing team – Brigitte Oeppinger, Elisabeth M. Edhofer, and Manfred Kalcher from Rotary Club Vienna International, together with Frank Hoerl and Gabriele Schrenk from Rotary Club Berlin International – could finally enjoy a well-deserved moment of rest after a year of preparations, knowing that they had created an event that truly inspired and connected everyone present.

Farewell to Vienna

On Sunday morning, international guests enjoyed guided tours of Vienna’s historic city center, followed by farewells and promises to meet again soon.
The Vienna weekend confirmed that Rotary unites people across borders, cultures, and generations – through service, friendship, and shared purpose.

PDG Katarína Čechová

RC Bratislava International