Why this Candidacy?

Since my term on the International Board of Directors of Lions Clubs International, I have remained unwavering in my commitment to Lionism, actively serving my club, MD102 in Switzerland, and the global Lions community.

I have undertaken and successfully carried out numerous roles, including serving with the Global Action Team, LCIF, governor training, leadership development, and training the next generation of trainers. I also presided over the European Forum in Montreux, which continues to stand as a benchmark and source of pride for Lions in our Multiple District. More recently, I embarked on a particularly delicate but successful mission to establish the new District 135 on the island of Cyprus. These roles, among others, have allowed me to connect with and gain recognition from international leaders across our association.

In recent years, many leaders in Europe and beyond have encouraged me to pursue the one remaining step: candidacy for the International Presidency of our association. For a long time, I resisted, out of humility, believing there were already many excellent candidates.

Perhaps too many. During the recent European Forum, discussions with international leaders and numerous words of encouragement prompted me to revisit the idea. After consulting with my family, we decided to embrace this new challenge.

This is a long journey—spanning over five years from election to the post-presidency. It is a commitment that will demand more than 100% of my energy, with significant time spent on the road rather than at home. Yet, it also presents an extraordinary opportunity to represent the Lions of Switzerland and Europe on the global stage.

Speaking several languages—some imperfectly but always with enthusiasm—and eager to learn new ones, I am open to the extraordinary diversity of cultures around the world and passionate about human connections. This is a challenge I am ready to undertake with great joy.

Above all, my motivation lies in my passion for Lionism and my ambition to share it. This passion fuels everything we do—membership growth, leadership development, and excellence in serving our communities. These are the pillars that will enable us to achieve our mission in the coming years: Mission 1.5.

Additionally, it is now Europe’s turn to present a candidate. After missing two opportunities, we cannot afford to miss a third. It is crucial for Europe to present a candidate with unanimous support.

I have never aspired to the role of International President. My sole ambition has always been to serve our association. This candidacy is my way of continuing that service.

Thank you in advance to all Lions of MD102, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, for your support. This is the first step toward the recommendation by the International Executive Committee and Board of Directors in Orlando in July 2025, and the election as 3rd International Vice President in 2026 in Hong Kong, where I hope to see many of you.

In the meantime, I look forward to meeting many of you at our extraordinary convention on February 22 and earning your support.

Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season.

PID C. Robert Rettby
Candidate for 3^rd International Vice President (I3VP)