ABOUT THE EUROPEAN UNION OF WOMEN MARINA ALTA
The European Union of Women Mujeres en Igualdad Marina Alta is a registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) here on the Marina Alta that aims to raise awareness about women’s issues, rights and equality. It is a part of a Europe-wide network of people interested in the empowerment of women through democratic representation within the context of peace.
It is accredited with the United Nations and the Council of Europe and participates in the organisation for Economic and Social Development (OECD).
The purpose of our group is to raise awareness mainly among the English-speaking community in Spain about women’s issues, and of course we have many Spanish friends in the local councils and other women’s associations with whom we network to help each other to further our aims.
We would love to meet with you at some time to find out what you do and to tell you about what we do, perhaps we can help each other in some way.
Dr Lola Solar, 1953.
In 1953, in the aftermath of World War II, Dr Lola Solar of the People's Party (ÖVP) and a group of Austrian women invited women of the Christian Democrat and Conservative parties across Europe to a conference in Salzburg.
These women agreed to work closely together to find common solutions to problems concerning women and families, to influence the legal processes in pursuit of their aims and to strive for peace.
EUW was officially established in 1955 in The Hague, with seven member countries, all of which had been severely affected by the war.
Those aims have not changed.
The European Union of Women Works in cooperation with political and civil organisations of the free peoples of Europe as well as European and International organisations to deepen the participation of women.
- • It subscribes to the spiritual and moral values that form the basis of Christian principles.
- • It stands for the safeguarding of human dignity and freedom.
- • It stands for social and economic progress while protecting the rights of the individual.
- • It stands for the maintenance of Europe’s cultural heritage.
- • It seeks to establish and increase contact between women from European countries.
The European Union of Women Marina Alta is a section of the EUW that falls under the Spain section of the organisation called the Confederación Nacional de Mujeres en Igualdad.
The EUW's main working instruments are the Research Commissions, which bring together interested members with expertise in all member countries, exchanging information on problems affecting women, families and society.
The Commissions are:
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• Culture
The Culture Commission promotes the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage, emphasizing its role in shaping identity and fostering unity across Europe. It supports initiatives that enhance cultural awareness and exchange among member countries. - • Education and Employment
This commission addresses challenges related to education systems and employment opportunities for women. It advocates for equal access to education and the labour market, aiming to eliminate barriers and promote lifelong learning. - • Health and Social Affairs
Focusing on women's health and social well-being, this commission works to improve healthcare services, social support systems, and policies that impact families and communities. It emphasizes the importance of mental health and work-life balance. - • International Policy
The International Policy Commission engages with global issues affecting women, such as human rights, migration, and international development. It collaborates with international organisations to influence policies that promote gender equality worldwide. - • Legal and Human Rights
This commission monitors legal frameworks and advocates for the protection and advancement of women's rights. It works to ensure that legislation across member states upholds principles of equality and justice. - • Sustainable Development
Dedicated to integrating gender perspectives into environmental and sustainability initiatives, this commission promotes women's involvement in addressing climate change, resource management, and sustainable practices. - • Europe Alive
Europe Alive focuses on fostering active citizenship and democratic participation among women. It encourages engagement in political processes and community activities to strengthen democratic values and societal cohesion. - • Youth Alive
Targeting the younger generation, Youth Alive aims to empower young women through education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. It seeks to cultivate a new wave of informed and active female citizens.
Mujeres en Igualdad (Women in Equality) is a Spanish non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to advancing gender equality and empowering women across Spain. Recognised as a public utility organisation, it holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), reflecting its significant role in Spanish as well as international gender equality initiatives.
The organisation focuses on a wide array of issues affecting women, including combating gender-based violence, promoting equal opportunities in education and employment and supporting women's active participation in political and public life. Through various programmes and initiatives, Mujeres en Igualdad works to raise awareness, provide support services and advocate for policies that foster equality and social justice.
Mujeres en Igualdad also collaborates with other organisations and institutions to strengthen its impact, participating in networks and alliances that aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Its commitment to these causes has made it a key player in Spain's ongoing efforts to achieve gender equality.
For further information about their work and initiatives, you can visit their official website: www.mujeresenigualdad.com.