Budapest, Hungary – The International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) proudly announces that its Vice-President, Árpád Sárkány, has been awarded the Commander’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit, one of the highest honours conferred by the Hungarian state.
Deputy Prime Minister Zsolt Semjén officially presented the decoration in recognition of Mr. Sárkány’s decades-long commitment to conservation, forestry, and the sustainable use of wildlife. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Zoltán Kovács, State Secretary for International Communication and Relations and Head of the CIC Hungarian Delegation, underlining the national significance of the occasion.
A native of Romania, highly respected in Hungary and beyond, Árpád Sárkány has served as Vice-President of the CIC since 2022 and has been an active member of the organisation since 2004. With a professional background in forest engineering, Mr. Sárkány has played a leading role in championing sustainable wildlife management and ethical hunting practices in Romania and across Europe. He has been a strong advocate for Hungary’s leadership in international conservation policy and for closer dialogue between hunters, scientists, and policymakers.
CIC President Dr. Philipp Harmer welcomed the news:
“Mr. Sárkány’s recognition is richly deserved. His lifelong dedication to conservation through sustainable use has made a lasting impact on our work and our values as an organisation. We are proud to count him among our leadership.”
The Commander’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Hungary’s cultural, scientific, and civic life. Mr. Sárkány joins a distinguished list of recipients whose work has strengthened Hungary’s profile on the international stage.
Founded in 1930, the CIC is one of the oldest conservation organisations in the world, bringing together governments, NGOs, and experts in over 80 countries. The recognition of Mr. Sárkány’s achievements reflects growing international support for conservation models that are grounded in science, tradition, and local stewardship.
Media Contact:
Tristan Breijer MBA FRGS FRSA MCIJ
Director of Communications and Public Affairs
CIC – International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation
Email: tristan.breijer@cic-wildlife.org
Mobile: +44 781 408 7423
Website: www.cic-wildlife.org