Order For Merit

The National Order For Merit (Ordinul Național Pentru Merit) is an order which is part of the National System of Decorations of Romania.

Composition of the order
The National Order for Merit is awarded in five grades in civil and military divisions, as well as a wartime division. It may be awarded to Romanians, foreign citizens, and military units. Its number is limited to 7,500 members. Members of the order are referred to as Knights of the Order for Merit, regardless of grade. Awards to foreigners, awards to military units, and awards in the wartime division are not figured in the total number under the order's limits. Awards are limited by grade and division as follows:
 * Grand Cross, 150 civilian and 50 military
 * Grand Officer, 300 civilian and 100 military
 * Commander, 675 civilian and 225 military
 * Officer, 1,500 civilian and 500 military
 * Knight, 3,000 civilian and 1,000

Criteria
The National Order for merit recognizes important civil or military services rendered to Romania. Qualifying important services may include:
 * Safeguarding the independence, sovereignty, territorial unity and integrity of the Romanian State
 * Developing the national economy
 * Accomplishments in the fields of science, art, or culture
 * Contribution to the development of relationships between Romania and other countries or international organizations
 * Meritorious military service organizing and managing military operations
 * Deeds committed on the battlefield or during military conflicts

Notable recipients

 * Marek Belka
 * Valentina Butnaru
 * Mark A. Meyer
 * Mihnea Motoc
 * Raymond T. Odierno