Prof. Dr. Olga Surdu
President of FEMTEC
History and Mission of FEMTEC
The Federation was founded in 1937 as the International Balneal Association, inspired by the Hungarian thermalism model.
After a hiatus during World War II, it was re-established in 1947 during a congress held in Mariánské Lázně (Czechoslovakia), with the participation of 19 countries.
Since then, the Federation has promoted the use of mineral waters and climatotherapy for health, particularly for the recovery from physical and psychological trauma.
Evolution of the Federation
In 1999, with the support of the Russian government, the headquarters was transferred to Russia under the presidency of Nikolay Storozhenko.
Under his leadership, the Federation became a global reference point, welcoming countries such as Korea, Japan, and Kazakhstan.
It was officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the World Federation of Balneotherapy and Climatotherapy.
Recent Presidencies
Prof. Umberto Solimene (2014–2020) led the Federation into the 21st century, promoting technology, digitalization of clinical data, international training (e.g., a chair in Havana, Cuba), and outreach toward Asia.