Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt Receives the Commander’s Cross of the Republic of Hungary for Contributions to the Integration of the Roma in the Carpathian Area
On March 22, 2018, Altgraf Franz Salm was honored in a formal ceremony at the Hungarian Parliament for his outstanding contributions. He was awarded the Commander’s Cross of the Republic of Hungary, one of the country’s highest honors. This recognition was personally bestowed by Hungarian Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Zsolt Semjén, who, in his speech, praised Ambassador Salm’s tireless efforts in advancing the integration of Roma communities in the Carpathian Area.
Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt has for many years distinguished himself as a bridge-builder between cultures and social groups. His work has particularly focused on the promotion of the Roma, who have lived in Central and Eastern Europe for centuries and often face significant social challenges. Through his humanitarian and social initiatives, he has made a substantial impact on improving the living conditions of this community, providing access to education, healthcare, and professional opportunities. Furthermore, he has supported programs that foster social cohesion and help reduce prejudice. The ceremony, held in a small and intimate setting, was attended by several high-ranking members of the Sovereign Order of Malta. Present were the Order’s Grand Chancellor, the Grand Hospitaller, and the Order’s Receptor, highlighting the importance of the award and Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt’s close association with the Order. The Order of Malta, known worldwide for its charitable and social work, has worked closely with Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt on projects aimed at supporting the Roma in the past.
In his acceptance speech, Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt emphasized that this award was not only a personal honor but also a recognition of the hard work and dedication of all those involved in helping the Roma. He underscored that the integration and support of disadvantaged groups are not just the responsibility of governments but of society as a whole. “Only through collective action can we achieve social justice and equality,” Salm remarked. Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Zsolt Semjén praised Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt’s “extraordinary courage and foresight” in advocating for the well-being of the Roma community. He stressed that Hungary was proud to honor a figure like Franz Salm for his work and his contribution to social integration.
The awarding of the Commander’s Cross of the Republic of Hungary to Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt is a significant recognition of his long-standing work in the region. His commitment has not only improved the lives of many Roma but also made a valuable contribution to strengthening the social fabric in the Carpathian Area.The celebrations at the Hungarian Parliament concluded with a formal reception, where attendees congratulated Ambassador Dr. Franz Salm-Reifferscheidt on his well-deserved honor and paid tribute to the importance of his work for the Roma and the region as a whole.
