Associations from across Europe will be recognised for excellence in innovation, digital communications and social impact at the European Association Awards, taking place this week in Brussels.
The awards ceremony will follow the European Association Summit 2026 on Thursday, March 26, with winners selected after a record-breaking number of submissions, organisers said.
Shortlists span several categories highlighting the breadth of work undertaken by European associations.
In the Digital Communications category, finalists include the European Hematology Association, Alliance Carton Nature and EUsalt.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) category features the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, EUMEPS and EIT Manufacturing.
Meanwhile, innovation in events is represented by nominees including the European Network of Living Labs, the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons and the European Brain Council.
The Impact category includes ECTAA, the European Society for Organ Transplantation and the International Network for Human Rights Europe.
An ESAE spokesperson congratulated all shortlisted organisations, praising both their projects and the teams behind them. “Associations continue to inspire through their work, supported by dedicated professionals who ensure their organisations deliver on their mission and put members first,” the spokesperson said.
Among the finalists, ECTAA has been recognised for its summer camps initiative supporting Ukrainian children. In a LinkedIn post, Christina Russe, the organisation’s deputy secretary general, said being shortlisted was “a wonderful recognition of the project and the people behind it,” adding that tourism can play a vital role in fostering connection and shared values.
The European Brain Council also welcomed its nomination, with its Brain Innovation Days event highlighted as a platform for showcasing advances in brain health and encouraging collaboration across the sector.
Winners will be announced at the ceremony in Brussels on Thursday evening.
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
