On 28 November 2018, as part of the Women of Europe Awards, the European Movement International organised a a panel debate to discuss campaigning and civil activism in the context of equality and women’s rights.

No matter where in Europe you look, citizens from Italy to Ireland, from Poland to Denmark are campaigning in their personal and professional capacity to ensure equal rights for all and to give a voice to underrepresented groups in our society. While the role of women in enhancing democracy in Europe is often overlooked, it is never too late to shine the light on their initiatives and to strengthen the capacity of civil society and female activism. For this, we invited five inspiring women to share their unique experiences in fighting for a cause and to illustrate the powerful impact of civic engagement and grassroots activism.

Was delighted to be able to make a contribution and share some of our Irish story — and even more delighted this morning to hear that the three leaders of #TogetherforYes won the #WomenofEurope award. No-one could have deserved it more! https://t.co/XUpTIq2X2H

— Caroline Hickson (@HicksonHick) November 29, 2018

This panel debate took place in the context of this year’s edition of the Women of Europe Awards and ahead of the Award ceremony held in the evening on the same day. By bringing together female activists from different backgrounds, the event offered an opportunity to discuss the efforts of women in making their voice heard, empowering minority groups and effectively advocating for equal rights.

Women telling their stories. Inspiring activists sharing experiences and strategies. Victories have been won, but the struggle is still real. From Poland to Ireland, from abortion rights to the rights of refugees. Together we stand for #Equality & #WomensRights #WomenofEurope pic.twitter.com/T5Jjh9fVCD

— European Movement (@EMInternational) November 28, 2018

The initial kick-off remarks focused on the ‘Together for Yes’ campaign leading up to Ireland’s abortion referendum in May 2018, as a women-led grassroots campaign that created a blueprint for reproductive rights campaigners across Europe and beyond and for which thousands of volunteers were mobilised. The initial remarks where followed by a discussion among the panellists and audience on recipes for successful campaigning and ways for citizens, and in particular those that are under-represented in politics, to make their voice heard in society and to influence politics.

See the photos of the event: