The “New” Europe

Rules explained – Constitution, Section 34

[above: Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn – The Abduction of Europa (1632) – J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, CA, USA]

by Antonio Bari

In late 2024 the Board of Governors approved a large amount of amendments to the Constitution.

Although the Constitution has not been overturned, the changes to Section 34 are in my opinion the most relevant.

Traditionally Europe has been divided in two main areas, North and South, with the respective championships held annually.

In the early 90s, when Russia began to grow, the new East Europe division was established, which also included Poland and later Lithuania, and a Deed of Gift for an East European Championship was presented by the Russian secretary.

After 30 years Russia has disappeared and today only Poland and Lithuania remain as “East European” countries.

For this reason a new subdivision involving Northern, Central and Southern Europe is in force from 2025, a division reflecting the real consistence of the Class in the Continent.

The Countries included in the current organization are, respectively:

Northern Group: • Denmark • Finland • Norway • Sweden

Central Group: • Belgium • Germany • France • Lithuania • Netherlands • Poland • United Kingdom

Southern Group: • Austria • Croatia • Italy • Portugal • Spain • Switzerland

This organization will certainly promote more exchanges and travels and, hopefully, will allow the Class to grow.

Now one more step is needed. A Deed of Gift for a Central European Championship is missing. Who will present one?

Antonio Bari