A more personal update
– The Royal Order of the Polar Star awarded to Marek Czernis
Dear Friends and
Colleagues,
Our Maritime Legal Updates are usually devoted
to maritime law, shipping, offshore projects and international business
matters.
This time, however, we would like to share news
of a more personal nature, closely connected with many years of public service
and Polish-Swedish cooperation.
On 11 June 2026, the Ambassador of Sweden to
Poland, H.E. Martina Quick, presented Marek Czernis, Honorary Consul of Sweden
in Szczecin, with the Knight First Class of the Royal Order of the Polar Star,
awarded by His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden.
1. The Royal Order of
the Polar Star
The Royal Order of the
Polar Star (Nordstjärneorden)
was established in 1748 and is one of Sweden’s
most distinguished royal honours.
Historically, it has been awarded for
outstanding civil merit and contributions to Sweden and Swedish interests
abroad.
Its motto “Nescit Occasum” (“It Knows No
Decline”) refers to the Polar Star, symbolising guidance, constancy and
service.
2. Significance of the
distinction
The Royal Chancellery awarded Marek Czernis
Knight First Class of the Royal Order of the Polar Star (corresponding to Class
IV within the five-class structure of the Order).
The Order is awarded for: distinguished service
to Sweden, promotion of Swedish interests, public service, long-standing
commitment, and exemplary performance of entrusted
responsibilities.
For a non-Swedish citizen, it represents one of
the highest distinctions that may be granted by the King of Sweden.
3. Grounds for the
award
According to the Embassy of Sweden the
distinction was awarded in recognition of Marek Czernis’ extensive contribution
to promoting Sweden and his exemplary service as Honorary Consul of Sweden in
Szczecin.
Marek Czernis has served as Honorary Consul of
Sweden in Szczecin since 2017.
4. The ceremony
The ceremony took place in Szczecin in the
presence of representatives of: diplomatic circles, business organisations, local
authorities, academia, and the maritime sector.
The distinction was presented by Ambassador
Martina Quick during a special reception organised for the occasion.
5. Szczecin, Sweden
and the maritime community
The links between Szczecin and Sweden have a
long and rich tradition, particularly in: maritime transport, ferry services, offshore
wind, shipbuilding, logistics, energy, and academic cooperation.
The role of the Honorary Consul has always been
to strengthen these ties and support cooperation between both countries.
6. TVP3 Szczecin
coverage
The event was also covered by TVP3 Szczecin: https://szczecin.tvp.pl/93755933/order-gwiazdy-polarnej-dla-marka-czernisa-krol-szwecji-wyroznil-konsula-honorowego
A personal note
Receiving this distinction is a tremendous
honour.
I regard it above all as recognition of the
many individuals, institutions and organisations with whom I have had the
privilege to cooperate over the years, both professionally and in my role as
Honorary Consul of Sweden.
My sincere thanks to everyone who has been part
of this journey.
Marek Czernis