3564 - STRATEGIC ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE IN EUROPEAN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS: FUTURE-ORIENTED PERSPECTIVES FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE IN PSYCHOLOGY AND BEYOND

Session: 3532 - PSYCHOLOGY IN EUROPE: STRENGTHENING POLICY, PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, AND SOCIAL IMPACT IN A CHANGING WORLD
AUTHORS:
Ramalho Sofia (European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA) ~ Brussels ~ Portugal)
Abstract text:
Strategic organisational development is a key driver of professional, organisational, societal, and policy impact. EFPA (European Federation of Psychologists' Associations), representing over 400,000 psychologists across 37 countries, offers a unique platform to explore how transformation and change can strengthen our collective capacity to act, both regionally and globally.


The discussion will outline how professional organisations can remain fit for purpose in times of uncertainty and complexity. It will examine how to align advocacy efforts and policy strategies with emerging societal needs, demonstrating how associations can effectively influence public mental health policies, digitalisation and AI ethics, social inclusion agendas, emergency preparedness, and democratic resilience — at EU, national, and local levels.


A future-oriented perspective will be presented, describing a vision for agile, evidence-based, and participatory organisations capable of anticipating change rather than merely reacting to it. The presentation will highlight the importance of inclusive governance models, transparent decision-making processes, and meaningful member engagement. It will also emphasise strategies for building organisational capacity through leadership development, project implementation and knowledge exchange, ensuring that future generations of psychologists are empowered to contribute.


Participants will gain insight into actionable strategies to design and implement transformation in their own contexts, strengthening the role of psychology in addressing pressing societal challenges and shaping the future of our profession.