The Order of Malta, known as the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes, and of Malta, is a religious order of chivalry linked to the Holy See with charitable objectives. Recognized by some countries, it enjoys civil exemption without being subject to international law. Although it lacks territoriality, it operates as an international non-governmental organization, similar to the Red Cross. With representations in 112 states, it has had Observer status at the UN since 1994. It inherits the ancient Order of the Hospitallers of Saint John, founded in 1080 and declared sovereign in 1113. Dependent on the SMOM, it has 6 Grand Priories and 48 National Associations. In Italy, the three Grand Priories gather members, managing healthcare activities through the Association of Italian Knights and the Military Corps of the ACISMOM. Based in Rome, it is present in over 120 countries, qualifying as a sovereign entity. Its motto is "defense of the faith and service to the poor." It issues stamps, has a numismatic currency, registers vehicles with SMOM license plates, issues diplomatic passports, and celebrates National Day on June 24, in honor of Saint John the Baptist, the Order's Principal Patron. Fra' John Timothy Dunlap was elected Grand Master in May 2023.
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