Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the RGS, President of Russia Vladimir Putin recorded a video message on the occasion of the 180th anniversary of the Russian Geographical Society, one of the oldest and most respected public associations in our country.
In his congratulatory message, Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian Geographical Society had made a huge contribution «to the development and strengthening of the Russian state, to its scientific and military triumphs, and to the increase of national wealth.» Currently, the RGS continues to organize expeditions, implement educational and exhibition projects, and «does a lot to develop international humanitarian cooperation and strengthen trust between peoples.»
«I would like to express my gratitude to all those who faithfully serve Earth science, study and preserve Russia’s unique nature, the rich cultural and historical heritage of our multinational country, and its distinctive traditions — to our scientists and volunteers, researchers and travelers, local historians, ethnographers, and search specialists,» Vladimir Putin said.
Video Message from the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the RGS, President of Russia Vladimir Putin (in Russian)
The Russian Geographical Society was established on August 18, 1845, by the supreme command of Emperor Nicholai I, with the participation of representatives from the scientific, state, and public spheres. It is a unique example of a continuously operating public organization in Russia that has maintained continuity in its work since its foundation.
The society unites specialists in the field of geography and related sciences, as well as enthusiastic travelers, environmentalists, and public figures — all those who seek to learn new things about Russia, who are ready to help preserve its natural resources, historical and cultural heritage.
Today, the RGS has more than 29,700 members in Russia and abroad. Regional branches of the Society are open in all 89 regions of the Russian Federation.
In 2010, Russian President Vladimir Putin headed the newly created Board of Trustees of the Russian Geographical Society. The Board revived long-standing traditions of patronage and established grants from the Society. Many significant research, conservation, and expedition projects are carried out as part of them. The Board consists of well-known public figures and business representatives.
Starting in 2020, Geographer’s Day is also celebrated on August 18, the day of the founding of the RGS. This professional holiday was ordered to be established by Russian President Vladimir Putin in order to popularize geography.
And Geographer’s Day of the BRICS countries is celebrated since 2024. This initiative belongs to the Russian Geographical Society. The celebration is aimed at strengthening international cooperation in the field of geographical sciences, popularizing geography and related disciplines, as well as involving young people in scientific research within the framework of BRICS.