The Social Responsibility of International Associations

Can it enhance their growth and help them achieve their goals, while contributing positively to building a more harmonious and prosperous world?

International associations, especially non-profit organizations, have a mission to work for the good of society. This is particularly evident in health associations, whose primary mission is to support medical research and improve public health. However, all types of associations, especially those operating internationally, can make progress in fulfilling their social responsibilities.

Unique Strengths of Associations

Associations have a unique ability to bring together, understand, serve and support their communities. They excel in proposing, educating and inspiring their members. Unlike businesses, associations often face pressure from powerful companies and lobbies, which can influence their activities. This pressure is often proportional to the size of the associations and the financial stakes for their members.

Evolution and Influence

Over the past 20 years, the governance and organization of associations have become more mature and professional. Their "Soft Power" - the ability to influence without using force- is growing and cannot be underestimated. This power is crucial because it can support just causes and threatened societies. Associations must realize and use this invisible and immeasurable power to its full potential.

Key Insights of a recent study on the Social Responsibility of Associations

According to the study conducted last year by the undersigned on “The social responsibility of international associations” as part of the Executive Master in International Associations Management operated by Solvay Brussels School of Economics, University of Brussels, here are the main conclusions drawn by the associations surveyed:

-  Approximately one-third of associations rely heavily on membership dues, impacting their structure and decision-making, including their commitment to social responsibility.

-  Two-thirds of associations consider the UN 2030 Agenda or other sustainability goals, but only 6% publish an ESG report. The main Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) prioritized by associations are quality education, good health, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and partnerships.

- Associations are motivated by their mission, vision, strategy, image, values, and commitment to sustainability.

- While two-thirds of associations are affected by global conflicts, only 39% act to reduce the negative effects, and less than 9% assess their impact on society.

Examples of Good Practices

Various associations are implementing commendable initiatives to address diverse challenges. For instance, the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA) launched the “Vets for Ukraine Pets” program^*1, providing veterinary care and professional opportunities to Ukrainian veterinarians. Similarly, the association of lawyers specialised in Intellectual Property law (ECTA) encourages sustainability through small steps and the sharing of best practices. These efforts, along with others, demonstrate a commitment to supporting public health, developing leadership skills, promoting physical activity to reduce mortality from chronic diseases, aiding disaster-affected members, and assisting professionals in crisis areas.

*1 more info: Vets For Ukraine – Hub to coordinate aid by European veterinarians to help Ukrainian veterinarians, their families and animals

Challenges and Opportunities

Although most associations have social responsibility as an integral part of their mission, they often lack the will, tools or resources to act effectively. They struggle to communicate their social actions and underestimate the impact of small gestures. However, associations are starting to communicate more about their social sustainability efforts, inspired by large institutions such as the UN and the EU. Furthermore, associations can benefit from cross-sector collaborations to maximize their impact and share resources.

We can conclude that associations have a significant social and societal responsibility. Despite their potential, they often underuse their influence to support threatened communities and peace. Additional efforts are needed in the areas of public health, education and peace to fully realize their impact. By strengthening their commitment to social responsibility, associations can not only achieve their goals but also contribute to a more harmonious and prosperous world.