Who sets EIGE’s Direction? Inside the Management Board

EU agencies don't run themselves. In this explainer, we demystify EIGE's Management Board: who its members are, what they do, and how they help shape the Agency's work to advance gender equality across Europe.

You would be correct in assuming that EIGE’s research, data and expertise help promote and advance gender equality across Europe. But behind the scenes, another key body helps steer the Agency’s direction: the Management Board.

Most people hear the words ‘Management Board’ and immediately imagine a room full of people discussing spreadsheets and budgets over coffee.

In reality, EIGE's Management Board is actually a lot more substantial than that. 

If EIGE is the EU's gender equality expert, then the Management Board is the group that steers the ship. It doesn't run the Agency day-to-day - that is the Director’s role - but it determines priorities, sets the overall direction, and ensures how it can best support the European Union's goals on gender equality.

The Board is made up of representatives from 18 EU Member States, alongside one representative from the European Commission. Member State representatives are appointed by their national authorities for a three-year term, while the European Commission appoints its representatives by Commission Decision. Together, they help shape EIGE's strategic direction. 

The important bit? They’re not in place to share and champion their own country's interests.

While the majority bring national expertise and perspectives to the table, their role is ultimately to ensure that EIGE delivers for the European Union as a whole. That means looking at the bigger picture and asking questions such as: What are the biggest challenges facing gender equality in Europe? What evidence do policymakers need? And how can EIGE have the greatest impact?