In the spring of 2023, after gaining a deep understanding of EBU as it's administrative assistant and keen to utilize my MA in English and Sociology, together with an affinity for human relations and social justice, I embarked on a new position as the EBU Membership Officer. While previous responsibilities already included working with members, in collaboration with the governing bodies of EBU, we recognised the need to strengthen cooperation among members and with the Secretariat.
Following the COVID-19 crisis and a string of online meetings, members involvement seemed to be subdued, a situation not unique to EBU as counterparts in various NGOs reached the same conclusion. Member engagement is a stimulating yet challenging mission as there is room for improvement in democratic and participatory processes, fostering mutual understanding, and facilitating joint actions. By doing so, we can truly represent the unified voice of millions of blind and partially sighted individuals across Europe.
1. Challenges of members engagement
Engaging members in a European NGO composed of 41 member associations, both within and outside the EU, indeed presents a unique set of challenges.
This diversity is manifest in various domains. To name but a few: EBU Members exhibit a rich tapestry of cultures and languages. Member associations from outside the EU are governed by distinct regulatory frameworks which can hinder their participation. Effectual communication can prove intricate. Members harbour varying priorities, contingent on their geographical location, focus areas, and internal structures (e.g. Service Providers and DPOs). In terms of capacity, some organisations have fewer staff, logistical, and financial resources. Sometimes, the entry point within a national organisation's secretariat is a lone individual, already burdened with national-level responsibilities. Gathering members for face-to-face events can entail logistical and financial complexities. Ensuring that all member associations have the proper infrastructure for engagement is paramount. Discrepancies in political climates and cultural sensitivities can cause disagreement when broaching specific topics or adopting positions.
Our aim at the EBU Secretariat, together with the Board, is to consider each member association equally, taking all specificities into account. We are committed to ensuring that regardless of their location, size or capacity, all members have equal opportunities to contribute to EBU’s reflections, decisions and actions.
The worst-case scenario would be an organisation paying its yearly membership fee and expecting the Secretariat to “do the job”, with no further input nor feedback. The EBU Secretariat with governing bodies is here to gather information, needs and expectations so as to facilitate the joint action with and for its members, so that the “Nothing about us without us” credo becomes an embodied reality.
2. The importance and benefits of members engagement
Some of the key advantages of engaging with EBU as a member are the collaboration and networking opportunities, the sharing of knowledge, resources, and best practices, which can help national organisations learn from each other and strengthen their own initiatives.
A more engaged membership strengthens EBU's capacity to influence European and international policies by combining expertise and advocacy efforts for greater impact. EBU Members can access shared resources, such as research, funding opportunities, and technical expertise, through various programs, events, working groups, and fora. Active member associations will gain visibility and recognition both within and outside EBU, enhancing credibility and outreach, especially with their local institutions and grassroots public. Engaged members can access exclusive EBU funding programs, often coupled with training and knowledge-sharing.
For non-EU member associations, engagement offers a platform for cross-border collaboration with EU-based organisations. Engagement promotes exchange and understanding among diverse organisations and in times of crisis (as is now the case in Ukraine), members can rely on the EBU network for assistance, coordinated and impactful efforts.
3. Practical ways of boosting EBU members engagement
To address the challenges described above, a well-thought-out strategy is important. It should include clear communication plans, robust governance structures, inclusivity initiatives, and flexible approaches to accommodate the diverse circumstances of the member associations. Regular feedbacks and open dialogue with members can also help address specific concerns and adapt EBU approach as needed.
An initial step as Membership Officer has been to launch a comprehensive survey to understand EBU national associations specificities, needs, expectations, and concerns. Promisingly, 66% of the members replied. With the help of our external evaluator (Dominique Danau) some of this information will notably be used for drawing up the next quadrennial Strategic Orientation Plan ahead of the 12th General Assembly.
Getting to know members better ensures a detailed and global overview of our network and has already enabled the EBU Secretariat to weave links between members and identify key actors for given initiatives. As part of a small but highly skilled team of seven people there, I also benefit from the expertise of my colleagues in the areas of Advocacy, Projects and Communication, which enhances the scope of interactions.
Other members engagement strategies include: creating clear procedures for representation, participation, and active involvement of members from all geographical areas; fostering efficient communication channels (such as discussion and mailing lists); sharing news, good practices and opportunities; setting up regular meetings, where members can connect; offering webinars, workshops, and training courses on relevant topics; implementing recognition that highlight outstanding efforts and motivate members at grassroots level; promoting cross-members collaborations on specific interests.
Last but not least, let us stress the importance for member associations to nominate individuals to the EBU board, working groups, networks etc. as individuals have a crucial and ongoing role to play in the governance and work of EBU.
These are only some of the tools that will benefit from members ongoing feedback and involvement. Please remember that improving membership engagement is a continuous process. It requires dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of all associations.
As membership officer, I am thus committed to regularly assess my efforts to ensure that engagement remains a priority within EBU. In turn, I trust all EBU members will dedicate time and resources to creating a cohesive and empowering network.
Valerie BERTRAND-VIVANCOS
EBU Membership Officer