EASPD is strongly committed to uniting forces with like-minded partners to strengthen our joint voice. Recently, three members of our Management Team have been elected to leadership roles in three influential European NGOs: Social Services Europe, the Social Platform and Civil Society Europe. 

Our Secretary General, Thomas Bignal, has been appointed President of Social Services Europe (SSE). Bringing together 9 European networks, SSE represents over 200,000 not-for-profit social and health services across Europe. Beyond addressing broad social policy priorities, SSE is a highly recognised voice on more technical dossiers that are essential for quality social services. This includes the forthcoming reviews of EU public procurement and state aid rules, as well as the next EU  Budget. 

"I am truly honoured to collaborate with my fellow SSE Board Members to amplify the voice of social services at the European level, especially at a time of such significant political change and when crucial EU legislation is under review." 

Our Deputy Secretary General, Timothy Ghilain, has been elected as Treasurer of the Social Platform. It is the largest NGO working on social issues in Europe, bringing together equality NGOs, social services, social economy and more. 

“EU social NGOs need to work together to ensure our voice is heard. I’m a firm believer in the Social Platform’s role as a leading and uniting voice for the social sector. It is my responsibility to offer my  support to the Social Platform through the Management Committee, to provide my time and expertise to build up our capacity and strength, in collaboration with all Social Platform members.” 

Our Head of Projects, Ivana Davidovska, has been elected to the Board of Civil Society Europe (CSE), the main European network of civil society organisations. CSE will play a key role in advancing civil dialogue and civil society as a key part to the EU’s democratic and political process.  

"I’m truly honoured to contribute to strengthening the collective voice of civil society in Europe. My core motivation is to help ensure that disability services are fully represented in the broader civil society landscape, especially at a time when funding is being cut and civil society space is under pressure." 

In the years to come, with significant change already taking place, EASPD will continue to work with our partners to ensure a strong voice for a Europe that empowers all people and leaves no one behind.  

Learn more about the challenges faced by civil society organisations here.