ESAE High-level Event at the EP Enhances Impact of Association Manifestos

Photo of the Panel Discussion, from left to right: Mike Morrissey, Gabriel Mato MEP, Rosa Armesto, Guido Lobrano, Francesca Stevens and André Sobczak

The European Society of Association Executives (ESAE) has been celebrating the success of its high-level event, 'Policy Manifestos and Associations' Impact', held at the European Parliament in Brussels on 26 September 2023.

The session was designed by ESAE’s advocacy community, and masterfully moderated by its co-chairs: Rosa Armesto and Guido Lobrano. It focused on the importance of enhancing the impact of Associations’ policy manifestos to inform the legislative process, especially considering the European elections taking place in June 2024.

The discussion began with an introduction by Gabriel Mato MEP, who stressed the vital role of transparency in policymaking. He emphasised the necessity for policies to be firmly grounded in real-world facts, highlighting that effective policymaking relies on lawmakers' awareness of civil society's realities.

Mike Morrissey, ESAE President, opened the panel discussion by highlighting how Association professionals can foster a fact-based approach to the political process and effectively convey the messages of their members, as an integral part of the European civil society.

Association executives from a large array of industries shared tangible examples and discussed challenges as well as ways for manifestos to be more impactful. André Sobczak, Secretary General of Eurocities, stressed the significance of Associations coming together, to exchange knowledge, ideas and best practices to enhance their impact: 'It is crucial for Associations to build strategic alliances and coordinate our efforts to ensure the elements of our manifestos are effectively implemented by various stakeholders.'

The multi-stakeholder gathering underscores ESAE's mission to foster dialogue and collaboration among European Associations, promoting excellence in Association management by sharing best practices. As put by Rosa Armesto: 'Advocacy is at the core of public policy. Our aim is to come together, engage with peers, share knowledge, and, as a community, gain a better perspective on our daily work.'

ABOUT ESAE

ESAE is the leading European organisation bringing together Association professionals. With a focus on education, collaboration and knowledge sharing, ESAE empowers its members to thrive in their roles and encourages the professionalisation of the Association sector.

ABOUT ESAE’S ADVOCACY COMMUNITY

The Advocacy Community provides a safe space for Association professionals who are members of ESAE to gather and discuss the latest developments in working in public affairs, stay informed about new trends, and share best practices.