Many people know about the European Union, but fewer are familiar with the Council of Europe (CoE). Founded in 1949 and based in Strasbourg, France, the CoE brings together 46 member states to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe. One of its unique strengths is its collaboration with international NGOs (INGOs), which ensures that civil society has a voice in shaping European policies.
As Soroptimist International of Europe’s (SIE) representative at the Council of Europe, my role is to make sure that women’s rights and gender equality are part of these important discussions.
Connecting Soroptimists to the Council of Europe
I serve as a bridge between SIE and the CoE, ensuring a smooth flow of information in both directions. I share SIE’s activities and priorities with the Council and, in return, bring back insights and developments that can inspire Soroptimist projects across Europe.
To do this effectively, I stay closely connected to SIE’s current projects and values. I attend semi-annual INGO conferences in Strasbourg, as well as online meetings throughout the year, to monitor topics that relate to women’s rights and other areas where SIE has an interest.
Committee Work and Advocacy
I am an active member of two key committees:
- NGOs as Advocates for Gender Equality and Women’s Rights
- European Social Charter and its Monitoring Mechanisms
In these committees, I represent SIE and contribute to discussions on specific issues that matter to our organisation. I firmly believe, and always emphasise, that educating boys from an early age is crucial to achieving lasting gender equality.
Beyond committee work, I engage with parliamentarians at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), attend the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and participate in high-level meetings on topics such as cyberviolence against women and protecting democracy in the age of artificial intelligence.
Engaging Clubs and Members
I also enjoy visiting Soroptimist clubs to explain how the CoE works, my role as their representative, and how their interests are represented across Europe. These briefings often include the Istanbul Convention, where I not only educate members about the Convention but also encourage them to take action in their own communities.
I have coordinated visits to Strasbourg for numerous Soroptimist groups, giving them the rare opportunity to attend PACE sessions and meet the INGO president, experiences that bring our work to life.
Supporting the Next Generation
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is opening doors for young leaders. For example, I met a talented youth delegate at the Congress for Local and Regional Authorities, and, with SIE support, she was able to take up an internship at the Council of Europe. Today, she is a young lawyer, a strong advocate for women, and on her way to becoming a Soroptimist herself. Small actions like these strengthen our network, attract younger voices, and ensure the future of Soroptimism.
Why This Work Matters
Being a Soroptimist representative at the CoE allows me to ensure that SIE’s voice is heard in European debates on democracy, human rights, and gender equality. By influencing policy discussions, collaborating with decision-makers, and sharing insights with clubs across Europe, I help ensure that our values are recognised and acted upon at a continental level. Through advocacy, education, and engagement, we can make a tangible difference, not only locally but across Europe.