Blog by Winnie-Karen Giera

Strengthening Networks and Expanding Our International Presence

ELINET was invited to be represented at the Union of International Associations (UIA) Round Table Europe 2025. ELINET was presented by Prof. Dr. Winnie-Karen Giera, Chairperson of ELINET.
The event, held on 21 November 2025 in Brussels, brought together more than 100 participants from diverse international associations for a day of exchange, reflection, and strategic dialogue.
Event link: https://uia.org/roundtable/2025/eu

Key Insights from the UIA Meeting

In the round-table discussions, there were several points of relevance for ELINET’s future development:

• Participation in UN deliberations:
  Securing a seat in the decision-making processes of various United Nations bodies would be highly valuable for ELINET. Such representation would enable the organization to contribute evidence-informed perspectives on literacy policy at a global level. However, the application and approval process typically takes around two years.
• Potential UIA membership:
  As ELINET is already included free of charge in the Yearbook of International Organizations, applying for UIA membership could be a strategic next step. This would offer additional visibility, networking opportunities, and access to resources tailored to international associations. Further information on eligibility and application procedures will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

A Strong Focus on Collaboration

The overarching theme of the UIA meeting was collaboration—strengthening networks, enhancing cooperation across sectors, and ensuring representation at key decision-making tables. ELINET, as an organisation committed to supporting evidence-informed literacy policy, should play a more active role in such spaces.

Looking Ahead

The next UIA Associations Round Table Europe will take place 19–20 November 2026 in Lucerne. More information will follow.

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