Pace expands membership and launches academy to shape future of European public affairs

The Public Affairs Community of Europe (PACE) has concluded its 14th annual meeting in Rome, a significant gathering marking both the expansion of its network and the launch of the PACE Academy. This initiative signifies a pivotal moment for the community as it officially welcomes two new member organisations from Greece and Poland, thereby increasing its total to 17 member organisations from 16 European countries. The new members, the Hellenic Association of Communication Agencies (EDEE/HACA) and the Polish Association of Public Affairs and Lobbying (PSPAL), signify a commitment to enhanced cross-border cooperation and a dedication to promoting good governance and transparency, values that are becoming increasingly vital in today’s complex European landscape.

The event’s return to Rome, where PACE was launched in 2011, underscored foundational principles such as transparency, ethics, and European collaboration. In his opening remarks, Deputy Nazario Pagano, President of the Constitutional Affairs Committee of the Italian Parliament, reinforced the necessity of institutional dialogue in advancing public affairs practices at the European site. His comments resonate with PACE’s ongoing mission to facilitate ethical and transparent practices in public affairs, serving democracy and the public interest across the continent.

The launch of PACE Academy adds another layer to the organisation’s efforts to cultivate a future-ready workforce in the public affairs domain. PACE Academy is envisioned as a mentorship and learning hub for emerging public affairs professionals, aimed at nurturing leadership qualities through enhanced dialogue and the sharing of best practices. This initiative will not only develop professional identity but will also foster a unified vision for the evolution of public affairs in Europe. Through such educational initiatives, PACE attempts to strengthen the professional identity of public affairs practitioners and promote skills that align with ethical innovation and integrity.

Reflecting on its founding goals, PACE continues to uphold the values of truthfulness, transparency, and fairness in its operations. These principles are paramount as the organisation grapples with the evolving landscape of public affairs, which increasingly includes discussions around ethical lobbying practices and the role of technology, such as artificial intelligence, in governance. For instance, the recent conference held in Bucharest focused on the future implications of these developments, showcasing PACE’s proactive stance on addressing emerging challenges within the realm of public affairs.

With a history spanning over 14 years, PACE remains the sole platform for national public affairs associations across Europe. It serves not only as a network but also as a vital resource for knowledge exchange among its members. The association’s recent initiatives reflect a determination to fortify collaboration among public affairs professionals and elevate the standards of practice in the field. The support from entities like Il Chiostro—focused on the importance of transparency and professionalism in lobbying—further underscores the collective ambition to enhance governance norms in Europe.

The gathering in Rome was marked by gratitude towards those who have contributed to revitalising the PACE community, notably Angela Marchese and Francesco Macchia. As the landscape of public affairs continues to shift, PACE’s unwavering commitment to fostering ethical practices and governance reflects its aspiration to lead as a beacon for collaboration and integrity across European public affairs networks. The future, with initiatives such as the PACE Academy, looks promising for the next generation of leaders dedicated to shaping a transparent and accountable public affairs landscape in Europe.