DG Justice has requested Social Platform to assist in ‘designating the NGO representatives’ by asking us to ‘propose two names of persons (one member and one alternate) competent in gender equality issues to represent NGOs at EU level’.

The regulation (EC 1922/2006) for the EIGE clearly states that the Institute’s responsibility is to involve NGOs (note the plural) in their work. One way to do this is by setting up a network of ‘organizations and experts’ (Art 3.e) (plural). At the same time Art 11 (on setting up an expert forum) specifies that the forum shall have one representative NGO (singular) at ‘community level’ (Art 8.1) - adding that the Director can invite NGOs on ‘specific tasks and (…) activities’ (Art 8.8).

Up until now we have not seen the EIGE consult with NGOs in the way that is outlined in the regulation. We would like to see this relationship improved with all European NGOs concerned with gender equality. Therefore we propose that the representatives supported by Social Platform ensure that they consult with other Social Platform members when carrying out their role as an expert before the institute (such as sharing agendas or requested expertise) and contribute with not only their own expertise but bring with them the inputs of other members to the Forum when necessary.

Therefore, please send your application to be supported by Social Platform to to Annica Ryngbeck by 20 August. In your application, please include a motivation of the candidate; what he/she can contribute with it terms of expertise on gender equality issues and notify your readiness to consult with Social Platform members on relevant issues to be addressed by the institute or the expert group in order to include all the the interest of Social Platform members regarding gender equality.

The decision will be taken by the Management Committee on September 7.