The European Association Awards in Brussels at the end of February were designed to recognise the unsung workhorses of change and exceptional achievements and campaign excellence among the trade association community .

Over 60 different European associations were represented on the inaugural European Association Awards shortlist across 13 different categories . Thirty judges , including secretary generals from leading European associations , evaluated the entries and shared their insights into market trends .

All judges agreed that in reviewing entries they were looking for the “ out of the box ” innovations that make the exceptional stand apart from the ordinary but , of course , meet the objectives enshrined in the association ’ s mission statement .

Of course , the European media environment is crowded and standing out is not an easy task . But the innovation , inspiration and commitment to their task demonstrated in the entries illustrates the creativity and dynamism evident in the sector .

Associations are important drivers of change – whether in defining new regulations , encouraging adoption of new

standards or lobbying for better market conditions and often their work is entirely confined to ‘ behind the scenes ’ laborious and lengthy leg-work . There is a definite feeling that the work of associations is under-appreciated and the public needs reminding of the work that they do , on behalf of the wider industries , but also that directly benefits the consumer . This is why several judges remarked on the need for more visibility on the efforts of trade bodies .

Carlos Lee , director general of the European Photonics Industry Consortium ( EPIC ) was one of the judges and noted : “ It ’ s

important to remind people – the Brussels bubble and the general public – of the power a pan-EU association can have , especially one that manages effective campaigns , or one that achieves ambitious goals . I can ’ t think of a serious industry that doesn ’ t have an association . And it ’ s time that top performing associations are recognised .

“ The role of associations is underappreciated . The public needs to be aware of the work that associations do for an industry .”

Lee added that taking the time to learn from the best practice of others and reflect on what

lessons you can translate to your own organisation translates into renewed vigour and refreshed thinking across the association sector as a whole .

As James Watson , CEO of SolarPower Europe added : “ Metrics in lobbying , political communication and public affairs aren ’ t easy to produce . It ’ s sometimes hard for an association to know if it ’ s doing a good job , so awards-based accolades are extremely helpful . It ’ s good to get feedback from others , and external recognition for good work .”

Claire Wormsley , MD of Global Conference Network ( GCN ), the award organisers , added : “ The response to these awards were extremely impressive with entries from all types and sizes of European associations entering . The range of initiatives highlighted in the entries demonstrates the extensive range of activities which European Associations are involved in to support their members . All the associations shortlisted in the European Association Awards should be congratulated .”

Further information on the awards : europeanassociationawards . com