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[The CIVIS Newsroom ](https://civis.eu/en/the-civis-newsroom) 2. The new Vice‑Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network comes from the University of Bucharest The new Vice‑Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network comes from the University of Bucharest ================================================================================================== CIVIS Highlights 7 May 2026 Dr. Cristian Ciobanu, Coordinator of the UNESCO Hațeg Country International Geopark - administered by the University of Bucharest, has been elected Vice‑Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network (EGN). This is the first time Romania has held an executive leadership position within this continental network. ![](https://civis.eu/storage/files/highlightub1.jpg)photo: UNESCO Hațeg Country International GeoparkThe decision was made following the EGN Coordination Committee meeting held at the Karawanken -Karavanke UNESCO Global Geopark, a cross‑border geopark located along the frontier between Austria and Slovenia. During the two‑year mandate, the Vice‑Coordinator will oversee EGN activities between Coordination Committee meetings, represent the network in its relations with international bodies, and monitor joint projects, events, and the exchange of best practices among geoparks. The role also involves contributing to the preparation of meeting agendas and strengthening cooperation between members. ![Dr. Cristian Ciobanu, Vice-Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network](https://civis.eu/storage/files/cristian-ciobanu.jpg) > Taking on this role is both a responsibility and an opportunity to actively contribute to the development of the European Geoparks Network alongside colleagues from across Europe. At the same time, this election reflects the commitment and sustained work of all those who have initiated and been part of the Hațeg Country Geopark team over the years Dr. Cristian Ciobanu, Vice-Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network This appointment represents recognition of Romania’s contribution to the development of the EGN and is an honor for the country to be represented at this decision‑making level. It highlights the active role of the Hațeg Country Geopark within international networks and the ongoing involvement of the University of Bucharest in global initiatives supported by UNESCO. Through this position, Romania strengthens its presence in international dialogue on heritage protection, education, and sustainable development, in line with the values promoted by the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO. Dr. Ciobanu will work alongside Dr. Ilias Valiakos from the Lesvos UNESCO Global Geopark in Greece, who was elected Coordinator of the European Geoparks Network. The two will collaborate with an Advisory Committee appointed during the same meeting. A territory abundant in natural and cultural values --------------------------------------------------- The UNESCO Hațeg Country International Geopark covers the entire Hațeg Country region and holds UNESCO status as part of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme. It is part of the Global Geoparks Network, which includes 229 territories across 50 countries, designated through a rigorous selection and validation process. The geopark, administered by the University of Bucharest, is a territory rich in natural and cultural values, a sustainable development initiative, and a recognized brand offering a journey through the Earth’s 4.6‑billion‑year history. It represents both a mindset and a meeting place for those committed to revitalizing communities and preserving traditional values - whether local residents or visitors from afar. The geopark features significant geological sites alongside ecological, archaeological, historical, and cultural heritage. The dinosaurs discovered in the Hațeg region are unique worldwide, with their scientific importance enhanced by findings of nests containing eggs and hatchlings, as well as mammals that lived alongside dinosaurs and a giant flying reptile, *Hatzegopteryx*, belonging to the *pterosaur* group. All the details are available in the original story, in Romanian. 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