The EBOWN (European Business Organisations Worldwide Network) held a meeting of its global membership on Monday, December 4 and Wednesday 6 December by videoconference. The network meeting successfully connected 50 delegates from 43 countries, fostering collaboration and dialogue among representatives from diverse European organizations across six continents and multiple timezones.
The meeting programme included valuable discussions on how the network can further strengthen our ability as European business support organisations to better support European businesses operating abroad. Importantly, the programme also featured ‘best practice’ workshops tailored to the needs of both ‘Emerging’ and ‘Established’ EBOs, with speakers sharing their expertise on topics such effective communication tools and strategies to boost visibility as well as advocacy methods to measure progress and tracking advocacy initiatives’ impact.
Member of the EBO Board presented on the activities which they are leading at the global level, and presentations were made from the coordinators ‘on the ground’ from each of the EBOWN’s six regions – covering Africa, Americas & Caribbean, ASEAN, East Asia & Pacific, Europe & Eastern Partnership, and South Asia & Middle East. The presentations described initiatives occurring within individual EBOs and as collaborative efforts across the regions reflecting regional issues and opportunities.
The delegates also had the opportunity to engage with senior EU officials, namely Zrinka Reisinger, from the Directorate-General for Communication Networks, Content and Technology (DG CNECT); Director Antti Karhunen, from the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA); and Director Outi Slotboom, from the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW). The discussions covered key topics such as collaboration strategies to address sustainability, digitalization, and global market access—crucial elements for European businesses to thrive on the international stage. The meeting also emphasized enhancing communication channels between the European private sector and EU institutions.
Global Meetings of the EBO Worldwide Network serve as a crucial forum for European organisations worldwide to unite, network, and deliberate on solutions to current and future challenges. By engaging with EU officials, in-depth discussions, and regional meetings, the meeting generated valuable insights, empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of the global landscape.
