First draft of EVGC programme toolkit unveiled as partners come together in Brussels

The partners of the EmpowHer Volleyball Game Changer (EVGC) programme came together earlier this week in Brussels to review the progress achieved so far and discuss the next phase of implementation. A particular focus was placed on the results of the Gender Equality Survey, which collected valuable insights into the current state of gender equality, women’s representation and governance practices across the partner organisations. These findings are now guiding the development of the project’s practical tools and recommendations.

One of the key milestones presented during the meeting was the first draft of the EVGC Toolkit. The Toolkit is being developed as a practical, evidence-based resource that will support Volleyball federations in integrating gender equality into every aspect of their organisational structure and governance. Rather than focussing on isolated actions, it provides a comprehensive framework covering structural, cultural and empowerment dimensions, thereby helping organisations assess their current level of development and identify concrete steps towards more inclusive leadership and decision-making. 

The long-term ambition is for the Toolkit to become a sustainable reference not only for the six partner National Federations but also for all CEV National Federations and potentially other sports organisations wishing to strengthen gender equality through a structured and measurable approach.

The discussions in Brussels also allowed the consortium to validate the project’s direction, exchange national experiences and agree on the next steps towards finalising the Toolkit and preparing the subsequent implementation phase. The collaborative work carried out during the meeting further reinforces EVGC’s commitment to creating lasting structural change and increasing women’s participation in leadership positions across European Volleyball. 

Special thanks to the EOC EU Office for their excellent work on the EVGC Toolkit and for hosting this meeting.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.