Advocacy does not begin in Brussels, Geneva or New York. It begins with us: with individual Soroptimists, our Clubs and our Unions, in the communities where we live and work.
It begins when a member identifies an inequality, when a Club raises awareness about violence against women, when Soroptimists meet local decision-makers, support women’s economic empowerment, promote education for girls, or speak out when women’s rights are threatened.
These actions may start locally, but their potential does not have to stop there. This connection is central to the SIE Biennium Strategy 2026-2027 and its roadmap of Awareness, Advocacy, Action. The strategy puts members at the heart of our influence, with a commitment to equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to speak up for women’s rights at every level.
Sharing what we learn allows local experience to travel further. When Clubs and Unions share what they see, what they do and what needs to change, SIE can bring those voices to a wider audience: to European institutions, the United Nations, decision-makers and the international organisations and networks where Soroptimists are represented.
This is how local experience can become European and international advocacy.
But effective advocacy must also work in the other direction. Members need accessible information, knowledge of development affecting women’s rights and practical guidance on how to respond. Advocacy therefore depends on strong two-way communication: Members – Clubs – Unions – SIE, and SIE – Unions – Clubs – Members.
To strengthen this connection, the SIE Advocacy Team has developed two easy-to-use resources: the Advocacy Handbook and Advocacy Toolbox, available on the SIE Extranet. They are designed to make advocacy understandable and practical, whether you are experienced or taking your first step.
They provide knowledge, guidance and useful tools that can help turn an idea or local concern into concrete advocacy action.
Advocacy is not something reserved for a few representatives or specialists.
Every Soroptimist can contribute.
The world is changing rapidly, and progress on women’s rights and gender equality can never be taken for granted. If we want Soroptimists to influence the agenda rather than only react to it, we need to be informed, connected and ready to act. We need to recognise emerging issues early, bring forward solutions and ensure that the voices and realities of women and girls are heard where decisions are made.
And for that, SIE needs you.
We need the experience of our members, the actions of our Clubs and the knowledge of our Unions. Tell us what is happening in your community. Share successful projects, challenges, concerns and new ideas. Help us identify where change is needed.
One member can raise a question.
One Club can start an action.
One Union can strengthen the message.
Together, through SIE, we can amplify that voice and turn local action into wider impact.
That is how we move from awareness to advocacy, and from advocacy to real and lasting change for women and girls.
By Eva Skårner, SIE Vice President Advocacy 2026-2027