On the occasion of the Austrian Skål Day 2025, held at the elegant Hotel Sailer in Innsbruck, members and friends of Skål International gathered to celebrate a remarkable moment in the history of Austrian and European Skål: the conferring of the Skål Tourism Quality Award 2025 to Professor Mario Rehulka, […]
Paolo Bartolozzi
88 posts
A Global Workshop Series on Sustainable Tourism, Events & Hospitality Skål Europe is proud to unveil a new initiative within the framework of the Skål Europe Academy, our dedicated learning platform created to support professional excellence and innovation across the tourism industry. In a time when sustainability is no longer […]
On 22 May 2025, Skål Europe hosted an open consultation meeting with Club Presidents and representatives from across the continent, joined by several international guests. The objective was to initiate a transparent dialogue on the future direction of Skål International, in response to proposals concerning governance, digital infrastructure, and the […]
On the evening of 22 May 2025, the Skål Europe leadership convened a momentous online meeting that brought together more than 60 Skålleagues worldwide, including multiple members of the Skål International Executive Committee. The goal was as ambitious as it was necessary: to open a transparent and inclusive consultation with […]
A conversation between Paolo Bartolozzi and Tito Livio Mongelli of Skål Europe In recent years, the European Union has led a global push toward more sustainable, transparent, and accountable governance — not only for businesses but increasingly for associations and civil society organizations as well. Central to this shift is […]
“What if your guests could help fund your hotel’s solar panels?” A preview of the June 25 webinar – part of the Skål Europe Academy At Skål Europe, we believe in spotlighting tourism innovations that are both visionary and practical. That’s why our next Academy webinar focuses on a startup […]
Supporting Migrants During Tianguis Turístico 2025 Empathy and Responsibility: Skål International Mexico Supports Migrant Communities in Tijuana In the vibrant setting of Tianguis Turístico 2025, Mexico’s leading tourism event, a powerful act of solidarity quietly unfolded.Skål International Mexico, together with the humanitarian foundation Cooking Without Borders, and under the coordination […]
Local Action, Global Impact: Skål Kenya Coast Leads the Way with Monthly Beach Cleanups Sustainability is a shared journey, and Skål International Kenya Coast is proving that every step counts. Under the leadership of Janet Chamia — Club President and active member of the Skål International Sustainability Committee — the […]
Artificial intelligence has arrived in our professional lives not with a grand revolution, but quietly—through helpful tools that write emails, translate documents, draft articles, and manage content. In tourism, especially within a diverse and multilingual network like Skal Europe, these tools have already begun to lighten our workload. They save […]
On April 8th, 2025, Skal Europe hosted an inspiring and highly informative webinar as part of the Skal Academy series: “Unlocking Opportunities with Erasmus+: A Toolkit for Skal Clubs and Tourism Professionals” The session brought together participants from Europe, Africa, and Asia, highlighting the global relevance of the Erasmus+ programme—not […]
Innovation for a Smarter, Sustainable Future Skal Europe is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new recognition initiative: the Skal Europe Tourism Technology Awards, dedicated to excellence in the use of technology for innovation, sustainability, and positive impact in the tourism industry. As the tourism sector faces rapid transformation, […]
Tourism must be part of the solution, not the problem. With this vision in mind, Skal Europe continues its annual tradition of rewarding excellence in sustainable tourism through the Skal Europe Sustainability Awards 2025. Now in its fourth edition, the Awards aim to showcase and support the most innovative and […]
Honouring the Champions of Skal’s Future Skal Europe is proud to launch the Special Awards 2025, a unique recognition dedicated to the people who shape the future of our organization from within. These awards celebrate individual Skal Members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and creativity in strengthening Skal’s presence […]
Vinicio Borsi at the Economic Forum Giannini Chiavari, Italy – April 2025At the prestigious Economic Forum Giannini, held in Chiavari in memory of the renowned banker and founder of the Bank of America, Vinicio Borsi, Vice President of Skål International Roma, and Hospitality innovation manager at Swisse based DB Strategy […]
Skål Kenya Coast Leads by Example Mtwapa Creek, Kenya – 12 April 2025One Skål club has shown how local initiatives can drive real environmental change in a world where climate action can no longer be delayed. On Saturday, Skål International Kenya Coast, with the active involvement of its Executive Committee, […]
A European Invitation to a Weekend of Friendship and Elegance In the autumn of 2025, as the leaves turn golden in the heart of Europe, Skål International Prague will celebrate a remarkable milestone: thirty years of connecting tourism professionals in one of the most historic and captivating cities of the […]
In the heart of the Austrian Alps, nestled within the picturesque landscape of Salzburger Land, Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort stands as a model of sustainable tourism and visionary development. On a recent visit, Skal Europe President Franz Heffeter presented the Skal Europe Sustainability Award Certificate to hotelier Albert Ebner […]
Skal International Roma is delighted to present the official program of the much-anticipated European Friendship Skal Meeting, first announced during the AGA 2024. This exceptional event will occur from March 14 to 16, 2025, in the stunning setting of Rome, during the Jubilee year. It will be a unique opportunity […]
Skal Europe is pleased to share this exclusive interview, kindly provided by Skal Croatia, featuring Damjana Domanovac—director and owner of Croatia’s largest tourism fair, PLACE2GO, and a dedicated member of Skal Club Zagreb. In this conversation with Alan Racic, she discusses the evolution of PLACE2GO, its impact on the tourism […]
A Green Future for Golf Tourism Golf tourism in Europe is experiencing rapid growth, with the market generating approximately €7.25 billion in revenue in 2023 and projected to reach €14.5 billion by 2035, reflecting an annual growth rate of 7%. While golf has historically been seen as a resource-intensive sport, […]
Save the date—October 4, 2025—and get ready for a unique experience on and off the green in the heart of Rome. A Tournament That Unites Golf and Tourism The Rome International Skål Golf Challenge 2025 is set to take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the prestigious Circolo di […]
Where Tourism, Tradition, and Friendship Meet in Innsbruck Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck will set the stage for Austrian Skål Day 2025, an event designed to unite Skål members in a celebration of networking, recognition, and cultural exploration. Taking place from June 14-15, 2025, this gathering […]
How Unchecked Visitor Influx Drains Cities and Strains Communities Tourism is often celebrated as an economic driver, bringing business to local economies and promoting cultural exchange. However, when visitor numbers surpass the capacity of a destination, the result is overtourism. This phenomenon leaves cities grappling with skyrocketing public service costs, […]
A Platform for Clubs and Members to Grow, Gain Visibility, and Engage in the Global Tourism Network On March 6, 2025, the Skål Europe Board held a key meeting with European Directors of Skål International and Presidents of European Clubs to reinforce its mission: serving Skål clubs and their members […]
Recognizing Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Skål Europe is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Skål Europe Sustainability Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate and recognize the outstanding contributions of Skålleagues across Europe in promoting sustainable tourism. These awards aim to highlight innovative, impactful, and ethical tourism projects that […]
Exclusive Interview with Alan Racic As the PLACE2GO Tourism Fair in Zagreb approaches, we spoke with Alan Racic, Vice President of Skål Club Zagreb, to gain insights into this exciting initiative and its significance for Skål International members. Skål at PLACE2GO: A Unique Networking Opportunity Q: Alan, what makes PLACE2GO […]
Understanding the Green Michelin Star and Its Criteria In 2020, the Michelin Guide introduced the Green Star to honour restaurants that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainable gastronomy. This recognition is awarded to establishments that go beyond culinary excellence by integrating responsible environmental practices into their operations. Michelin inspectors assess several […]
Skål Napoli at the Round Table on the Future of Tourism in Campania On February 24, 2025, the Villa Avellino Historical Residence in Pozzuoli (Naples) will host the Round Table “Towards the D.M.O.”, an event that brings together key tourism stakeholders in Campania to discuss the development of structured Destination […]
A Toast to Global Connections! 📅 Date: March 6, 2025⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM📍 Location: ITB Berlin, Hub 27, Booth 203 (Düsseldorf Airport) ITB Berlin is the beating heart of the global tourism industry, where professionals from all corners of the world gather to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, […]
10 European High-End Restaurants Championing Organic Cuisine In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, high-end restaurants across Europe are embracing organic food like never before. These top-tier establishments are proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, offering gastronomic experiences that celebrate natural ingredients and ethical […]
How Hospitality Can Embrace the Green Revolution In an era where travellers are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, the demand for organic food within the tourism sector is at an all-time high. Visitors are seeking authentic, healthy, and sustainable culinary experiences, making organic food a key element in the […]
An Evening of Global Tourism Networking On March 5, 2025, Berlin will host one of the most anticipated evenings in the tourism industry again: the Skål International ITB Night. Set in the elegant Hotel TITANIC Chaussee Berlin, this event promises an unforgettable gathering of tourism professionals from across the globe. […]
A Unique Alpine Golf Experience The 7th SKAL Alpen Golf Challenge, set to take place from October 12 to October 14, 2025, promises an exciting blend of sporting excellence and leisure activities in the stunning Bavarian Alps. Hosted at the Parkhotel Wallgau, this event offers a perfect combination of competition, […]
Skål International Germany is excited to welcome all European Skålleagues to Deutscher Skål Tag 2025, taking place in Munich from March 21 to 23, 2025. Organized by Skål International Munich, this event offers an excellent opportunity for networking, cultural immersion, and professional engagement. Event Highlights The German Skål Day 2025 […]
Opportunities for European Restaurants and Hotels The Growing Market for Organic Food in Europe The European organic food market is undergoing a significant transformation, fueled by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and a willingness to invest in high-quality food. What was once a niche segment has become a dominant force […]
Why Going Organic is a Game-Changer for Your Business If you operate in the hospitality, restaurant, or catering (HoReCa) sector, integrating certified organic food and wine into your business isn’t just a passing trend—it’s an opportunity to redefine your brand, attract new customers, and increase your revenue. Today’s consumers care […]
A Game Changer for Tourism, Hospitality, and ESG Compliance The European Union has long been at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and food production. With the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2018/848, a new era for organic farming and its impact on the tourism and hospitality sectors has begun. This comprehensive […]
Join the Next Skal Europe Academy Webinar on April 8, 2025 In today’s fast-evolving tourism industry, attracting and retaining top talent is more critical than ever. Skal International, a global network of tourism professionals, is uniquely positioned to turn this challenge into an opportunity. The next Skal Europe Academy webinar […]
Skal International Rome is proud to unveil the official program for the much-anticipated European Friendship Skal Meeting, first announced during the AGA 2024. This special event will take place in the magnificent setting of Rome from March 14 to 16, 2025, during the Jubilee Year—a unique opportunity to strengthen the […]
FITUR: The International Tourism Trade Fair FITUR is the leading global event in the tourism sector, recognized as the primary trade fair for both inbound and outbound international markets. As the premier platform for the tourism industry, FITUR brings together professionals from across the globe, providing unmatched opportunities for networking, […]
Dear Friends, Looking back on 2024, it was the first year with the new Governance System, with committees working more or less intensively on their topics but with lots of enthusiasm everywhere. This is a great result anyway. Motivation is the motor of innovation.In Skal Europe, we experienced the same positive […]
Skal Europe is pleased to receive and publish the following article from Skal Roma. Skal Roma and the Skal network are working together to promote high-quality golf events and attract premium sports tourism. The Lazio region, renowned for its historical and cultural heritage, is increasingly establishing itself as a top […]
On Saturday, 28 September 2024, Skal Europe held its Annual General Assembly online, bringing together members from across the continent to reflect on the year’s achievements, share insights, and outline plans. The virtual gathering was a testament to Skal Europe’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the tourism industry, […]
During the Skal Europe online Annual General Assembly, President Franz Heffeter proudly presented two Special Awards that recognized outstanding achievements in club revitalization and membership growth within the Skal Europe network. These awards celebrate the extraordinary dedication, leadership, and innovative strategies demonstrated by two remarkable individuals who have breathed new […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Michael Meyer, the driving force behind the impressive growth of Skal Club Düsseldorf. As President, Michael has infused the club with renewed energy and enthusiasm, setting a benchmark for membership development. His innovative strategies and active engagement with the Skal community have […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Stéphane Jayet, the driving force behind the remarkable revitalization of the Skal Club of Lausanne. Once on the brink of closure, the club has transformed into a thriving and vibrant community under Stéphane’s leadership. As Vice President of the Swiss Travel Association […]
Recognizing Excellence in Sustainable Tourism On 28 September 2024, Skal Europe proudly held its online Annual General Assembly, where four distinguished awards were presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in promoting sustainability within the tourism industry. These awards celebrate the innovative efforts, community engagement, and commitment […]
Today, we are honoured to speak with Pilar Gómez Reina, a dynamic leader in the tourism sector of Cádiz and Andalusia and a long-standing member of Skål International Cádiz since 2012. As the driving force behind the first edition of the Skål International Tourism Forum in Cádiz, Pilar has been […]
Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Kommerzialrat Albert Ebner, the owner and manager of the “Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort,” a family-run establishment that has successfully embraced sustainability and innovation to create a unique and environmentally friendly experience in the heart of Hintersee. With a rich history dating back […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ornella Naccari, a passionate member of Skal Roma and the visionary behind “A New Way to Discover the Venetian Territories with Shakespeare.” Her innovative project combines theatre, history, and sustainable tourism to create immersive experiences that bring Shakespeare’s works to life in […]
A Must-Attend Event for Golf Enthusiasts in Lignano On Saturday, October 19th, 2024, the prestigious FVG International Skål Golf Challenge 2024 will take place at the renowned Lignano Golf Club, organized by the Skal Club Friuli Venezia Giulia. This exceptional tournament offers golf enthusiasts and Skal members the chance to […]
An Unforgettable Blend of Golf, Hospitality, and Alpine Tradition From September 8th to 10th, 2024, the stunning Golf Club of Alta Badia in Corvara/Colfosco hosted the sixth edition of the highly anticipated Alpen Skal Golf Challenge. This annual event brought together members of the Skal Alpine Clubs from Tyrol, Garmisch, […]
On October 12th, 2024, the highly anticipated Rome International Skal Golf Challenge will take place at the prestigious Fioranello Golf Club. This exclusive event, now in its third edition, promises to be a perfect blend of sportsmanship, networking, and support for charitable causes, making it a must-attend day for golf […]
A Great Skal Success Story Six years is a significant milestone, a time to reflect on achievements and the journey that brought them to fruition. For Skal Nice Côte d’Azur, the past six years have been a transformative period marked by extraordinary growth and success. When Nicolle Martin took on […]
An Exclusive Interview with Moritz Freise, President of Skål International Berlin. The Tourism Innovation Night is set to be a groundbreaking event, uniting the brightest minds in tourism to address the industry’s most pressing challenges. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, this event is not just a conversation […]
In the remote and captivating wilderness of Salla, East Lapland, Finland, conservation efforts have gained new and exciting momentum as the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss become increasingly pressing. Local organizations like Matkalle Sallaan ry, in partnership with the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation, are leading the charge to […]
Enhancing Financial Stability and Productivity In this exclusive interview, we sit down with NSN Mohan, Director of Skal International, to discuss his vital work in organizing and optimizing the Finance Committee. Under his leadership, the committee has set ambitious goals to ensure financial stability, increase productivity, and strengthen financial control […]
This interview provides a comprehensive overview of the “Champions of Sustainability” program, highlighting its objectives, implementation plan, and the crucial role of Sustainability Champions within Skål International. The program’s emphasis on communication, collaboration, and practical projects aims to embed a culture of sustainability within the travel and tourism industry, ensuring […]
The Skal International Finance Committee plays a critical role in managing the financial operations and ensuring the economic stability of Skal International. The committee comprises experienced professionals who maintain transparency, accountability, and effective financial management. This article details the committee’s recent activities, key discussions, and ongoing efforts to achieve economic […]
Skal Europe: Bertrand, cruising has often been seen as a major polluter. How is the industry addressing sustainability? Bertrand Petyt: It’s true, cruising does impact the environment. However, the industry is leading in innovative sustainable practices. Although we represent a small fraction of the global fleet, around 80% of maritime […]
To fellow Skålleagues across Canada and worldwide, by now most of you will have heard about the destructive forest fire that has burnt about 30% of the historic Rockies town of Jasper, Alberta. As the President of the Skål Canadian Rockies club, which includes members from Jasper, I would like […]
The United Nations observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons annually on July 30th. This day highlights the global issue of human trafficking, which exploits millions for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and other abuses. It emphasizes the need for international cooperation to combat trafficking, support victims, and dismantle trafficking […]
The 3E Conference held in Venice, featuring both in-person and online participation, brought together industry leaders to discuss the critical pillars of the Economy, Environment, and Ethics in the tourism sector. With prominent speakers like Skål Venice President Stefania Stea, Skål Europe Vice President Paolo Bartolozzi, and Tito Livio Mongelli, […]
Dates: 16-21 October 2024 – Location: Izmir, Türkiye – President’s Invitation Dear Skålleagues, We are overjoyed to invite you to the 83rd Skål International World Congress, from October 16 to 21, 2024, in the vibrant city of Izmir, Turkey. Izmir, renowned for its historical significance, cultural richness, and stunning coastline, […]
We are delighted to introduce the Skål International Training & Education and Florimond Volckaert Fund Awareness Committee. Skål International Director for Region 11, Mr Kevin Rautenbach, oversaw this committee. The Deputy Director co-chairs it for Region 11, Mr William Oh, and Skål International’s Past President Ms. Lavonne Wittmann, who represents […]
Venice, Rome, and Munich: Strengthening Ties and Fostering Dialogue Annette Cardenas, President of Skal International, recently concluded a successful European tour, visiting prominent clubs in Venice, Rome, and Munich. The tour was marked by fruitful discussions on crucial topics concerning the future of Skal, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to transparency, […]
As the corporate travel market in Europe increasingly prioritizes Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, small, often family-run hotels face the challenge of aligning with these new standards. This shift towards ESG compliance is not merely a trend but a regulatory and market-driven necessity. For small hotels, embracing ESG principles […]
On May 7, a highly successful webinar focused on economic sustainability and the EU Directive on Greenwashing. The event saw a large turnout, with participants from various sectors keen to engage in this crucial discussion. Crucial Topics Covered The webinar explored key topics vital for both consumers and businesses: Interactive […]
A Comprehensive Cost Analysis of Water Scarcity and Its Impacts on Tourism and Agriculture Alarm in Various European Regions: Scarcity of Rain and Depleting Reservoirs The European Drought Observatory (EDO) and the European Environment Agency (EEA) highlight several countries that are particularly vulnerable to drought conditions. Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, […]
Renewable energy has become a cornerstone of sustainable development in Europe, as countries and businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprints and combat climate change. Among the various renewable energy sources, geothermal energy stands out due to its consistent availability and minimal environmental impact. This article explores the use of […]
Improving energy efficiency in the buildings of the European tourism industry is crucial for reducing environmental impact and operating costs. This article examines the required investments, relevant EU regulations and financing options, the specific challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in holiday destinations, strategies for SMEs to overcome […]
The European tourism industry, heavily reliant on air, ground, and sea transport, significantly contributes to climate change. This article delves into the environmental impact of these transportation modes, highlights the initiatives by companies to mitigate their emissions, and presents both the challenges and advancements in making tourism more sustainable. It […]
Introduction Climate change is a pressing reality with profound impacts on various sectors, including tourism. As Europe grapples with increasing temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and rising sea levels, the tourism industry faces substantial economic challenges. Among these, the escalating cost of insurance for tourism-related businesses is significant. This article delves […]
We received and published this economic research by Vicepresident Paolo Bartolozzi about the challenges for the European tourism industry, knowing that the Paris Treaty temperature limits are already overcome. The discourse on sustainable tourism practices within the Skal Europe Area Committee reflects a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges posed […]
Skal Europe Area Committee serves as a dynamic forum, fostering collaboration and innovation among European Clubs within Skal International. While not a governance structure, it provides a platform for Clubs and National Committees to engage in various activities and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices and facilitating business opportunities. […]
April 12 to 14 the combined meeting of Skal Salzburg and Skal Europe took place. Hotel Pitter Imlauer where also the official 70 Years Celebration took place and Hotel Wyndham Grand gave phantastic offers for the rooms and Skal Austria and Skal Salzburg supported the cost for participation. The concept […]
Free Online Webinar on Economic Sustainability: EU Directive on Greenwashing In a world increasingly attuned to environmental concerns, discerning genuine sustainability efforts from mere greenwashing has become paramount. To shed light on this crucial issue, a free online webinar titled “EU Directive on Greenwashing” is slated for May 7th, 2024, […]
Sabrina Calvagno of Nivula captivated attendees with her insightful seminar on Hotel Online Reputation Management during the Skal Europe Academy on April 9, 2024. Delving into the significance of review ratings, Calvagno explored the tangible value of each percentage point improvement and the potential revenue growth associated with enhancing a […]
In the ongoing pursuit of fostering a more equitable and inclusive society, Skal Europe Academy organized a webinar on “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Europe” on March 12, 2024. This event, conducted in English, aimed to delve into the challenges, tools, and opportunities pertinent to gender equality in Europe. […]
Hotel Online Reputation Management: Enhancing Guest Satisfaction and Revenue April 9, 2024 – 6:00 p.m. CET In today’s digitally connected world, the online reputation of hotels plays a pivotal role in attracting guests and driving revenue. Skal Europe Academy, in collaboration with Nivula, is proud to present an exclusive webinar […]
A Skal Europe Academy Webinar Exploring Challenges, Tools, and Opportunities with Key Expert Insights. To foster a more equitable and inclusive society, Skal Europe is pleased to announce an upcoming webinar focusing on “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Europe.” This informative event, hosted by Skal Europe Academy, will take […]
Over 200 worldwide participants in the first Skal Academy webinar of 2024, in collaboration with Time2Act project (Susana Leal – Instituto Politecnico de Santarem) within the Erasmus + framework. The full webinar Slides
Updated Regulations and Evaluation Criteria for the Skal Europe Sustainable Tourism Awards In the pursuit of fostering sustainable tourism practices in Europe, Skal Europe has continually evolved its regulations and evaluation criteria for the Skal Europe Sustainable Tourism Awards. The latest updates, implemented in 2024, reflect a heightened emphasis on […]
Honoring Innovation and Commitment to Sustainable Tourism As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable practices across all industries, the tourism sector stands as a pivotal arena for change. In line with this ethos, Skal Europe is proud to announce the upcoming Skal Europe Sustainability Awards 2024, a […]
Corvara, Alta Badia: Golf and Networking amidst the Breathtaking Dolomite Panoramas. The prestigious SKAL ALPEN GOLF CHALLENGE is set to make its return to the heart of the magnificent Dolomites. The sixth edition of this flagship event is scheduled to take place from September 8th to 10th, 2024 in Corvara, […]
Skal Roma and Arena di Verona have extended their agreement for 2024, granting all worldwide Skal members a 30% discount on seats in the Orchestra or Tribuna areas (as chosen by the member) until sold out for the following performances and dates of the upcoming summer season. Antonio Percario, Membre […]
On October 4th, 2023, the SKAL EUROPE ACADEMY hosted an enlightening session that delved into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry. This webinar, which took place online, provided attendees with practical insights into the applications of AI. In the webinar, Samuel Siegfried, co-founder of PlaynVoice, […]
Skal Europe wishes Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2021 Dear Friends and Skalleagues, Our European Committee has existed since July 14th. Almost 6 months! What have we been doing during this time? Nothing strongly visible! However… The establishment of the structure, the organization of its functioning allowed the members […]