Mission

To promote and support the development and application of Work and Organisational Psychology in Europe and to facilitate links between scientists and practitioners working in this field across Europe 
 
 
EAWOP as an Organisation

EAWOP was founded in 1991, and is based on the philosophy of multiformity. It takes the political, cultural and linguistic diversity of Europe as a point of departure and acknowledges the existence of various intellectual communities that differ in the way they view and approach the problems of W&O psychology. Recognizing the fundamental equality of these intellectual communities, EAWOP tries to open boundaries and establish effective and durable links of co-operation.

EAWOP has been designed as an open network in which associations (called 'Constituents') as well as individual members can participate. Associations - in many cases 'sections' or 'divisions' of national psychological associations - are expected to play a crucial role in EAWOP by opening some of their activities to EAWOP-members from other countries, and by cooperating with other associations in so-called 'Dedicated Networks' related to particular issues relevant for W&O psychology. Associations may also organize special activities in cooperation with other associations and/or the EAWOP secretariat. Individuals can take part as members of Constituents, i.e. through a collective arrangement, or on a direct, personal basis.

EAWOP is made up of a general assembly, a constituent council, and an executive committee. The highest body in EAWOP is the General Assembly. It decides about the general policy and budget of the association. It also elects the President and the Executive Committee.

The Executive Committee develops, elaborates and implements EAWOP's policy and fulfils all further roles vis à vis the members and the outside world. Support is given by Task Forces and the Secretariat.

The Constituent Council, composed by representatives of the Constituents, advises the Executive Committee on any relevant matter.

There is considerable room for activities that are not under direct control of the General Assembly or the Executive Committee. Such activities take place in Dedicated Networks (run by Constituents) and Spontaneous Networks (run by individual members).

European context for W/O Psychology

In 2004 10 new member states will join the European Union increasing its membership to 25 countries. This fact makes the EU much more important than before in promoting Work and Organisational Psychology across Europe . Nonetheless EAWOP also recognises that European W/O Psychology is much more than just the EU. Within the EU developing legislation on a European Diploma in Psychology aims to provide for mobility of labour by establishing a common qualification standard for professional practice. EAWOP, through the EC, has taken a view that such a qualification should recognise the specific knowledge and skills needed in Work and Organisational Psychology. However it remains to be seen what kind of qualification is agreed upon but it is an issue that will affect the provision of W/O Psychology training across Europe . In the broader context it remains to be seen whether European W/O Psychology will have an impact in countries outside Europe . However links are beginning to be formed, for example between SIOP in the USA and EAWOP. Consultancies in Europe are starting to develop a greater presence around the world, which could affect significantly the way European W/O Psychology is shaped in the future.

Strategic Aims

The EC has identified four key strategic aims for EAWOP. These are:

•  Increasing Influence;

•  Engaging in Innovation & Development;

•  Enhancing Communication;

•  Improving Operation.

Objectives

The long term, overarching objectives of EAWOP for the next period were outlined at the General Assembly in Lisbon , May, 2003. These were:

1. To raise the visibility of EAWOP within Europe , and influence European legislation to the benefit of W/O Psychologists
2. To increase EAWOP membership
3. To administer the affairs of EAWOP professionally

Short term Objectives/activities (to Istanbul 2005)

1. To ensure the statutes and rules facilitate adequately the mission and aims of the association
2. To enhance services to members, especially means of paying subscriptions and information exchange and contact

 
Longer term Objectives/activities (to 2007)

1. To maintain and enhance the success of the biennial EAWOP congress
2. To increase the membership and involvement of constituents in the decision-making processes of EAWOP
3. To increase individual memberships and convert conference attendance into membership
4. To increase contact and influence with relevant European bodies and institutions
5. To ensure EAWOP maintains a healthy financial situation
   

Suggested Activities

•  Provide web infrastructure that allows the website to be continuously updated, and allows a members only section and constituents forum

•  Provide a directory of services and members who provide them

•  To formulate and circulate a position on the training of W/O Psychologists, especially in relation to the EDP

•  Market the EAWOP website

•  Seek out sponsorship for EAWOP

•  Produce a ‘best practice' guide to organising the EAWOP congress

•  Redefine the constitution, goals and purpose of taskforces

•  Co-operate and work with EFPA to advance EAWOP interests

• Review EAWOP statutes and rules