“Break the ice! Don't hesitate to approach people, even if it feels intimidating - try reaching out to different stakeholders at different levels.” - Laia Aycart Piquer, CONCORD
Laia Aycart Piquer is the Policy and Advocacy Adviser at CONCORD, managing the MFF portfolio at Europe’s leading confederation of NGOs focused on sustainable development policy and international cooperation.
What does the change you are trying to achieve look like? Why is the EU important?
One of our key objectives is advocating for the protection and strengthening of civic space for civil society organisations, activists and communities in the EU and in the Majority World. Civic space is crucial - it allows diverse and intersectional groups to operate freely, advocate for change and contribute to sustainable and long-term development.
The EU plays a key role in shaping civic space globally. At CONCORD, we engage with EU institutions, particularly the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) and the Directorate-General for Budget (DG BUDG), to ensure that EU policies and budgets prioritise and protect civic space. My work focuses on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the EU’s long-term budget, in particular funding for external action. By advocating for an MFF that integrates CSOs' views, needs and expertise throughout the process, we ensure that civil society organisations have the resources and freedom they need to thrive. And, ultimately, make a positive impact on partner countries, their people and the planet.
Strong, collaborative relationships with DG INTPA, DG BUDG, and other EU bodies are at the heart of our efforts. This cooperation directly safeguards the ability of civil society organisations to tackle global challenges and support marginalised communities worldwide.
Which challenges are you facing?
One of the biggest challenges I face is coordinating advocacy efforts at different levels. I engage with national platforms, which are essential for advocacy at the Member State level as they have deep knowledge of local contexts and established relationships with key stakeholders. At the same time, I work directly with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and officials within the EU institutions. This dual responsibility requires that I act as a bridge between the national level and the EU decision-making ‘bubble’.
Balancing between these two levels presents challenges in aligning priorities, ensuring coherent messaging, and coordinating efforts effectively. National platforms often focus on local needs, while EU-level advocacy involves navigating a complex institutional framework and addressing broader policy agendas.
One tip you want to share with other public interest advocates?
Engage in joint advocacy! Collaborating with others amplifies your voice and impact. Break the ice! Don't hesitate to approach people, even if it feels intimidating. Try reaching out to different stakeholders at different levels.
Mapping your allies is key to effective coordination, but it’s equally important to engage with those who may not seem - or may not yet be - your allies. They are often just as interested in learning about your work as you are in engaging with them.
