The European Policy Forum (EPF) is a lobbying and advocacy project established at the end of 2022 with the primary mission of coordinating European humanist organizations in the realm of European advocacy. It operates as a collaborative platform bringing together 21 European member and associate organizations to strengthen human rights advocacy within Europe, particularly targeting the European Union institutions and the Council of Europe. The Forum is coordinated by Humanists International’s European Advocacy Officer, who supports the members by informing advocacy goals, facilitating the sharing of good practices, and coordinating common campaigns. The Forum meets at least quarterly to exchange news, strategies, and provide mutual support on advocacy activities.
The EPF is recognized for its expertise in sectors such as financial services, energy, and telecommunications, focusing on regulated sectors where technical policy input is critical. It aims to influence the formulation and implementation of EU policies by providing informed sectoral knowledge to policymakers, thereby enabling more informed decisions. The Forum also produced the European Humanist pledge ahead of the 2024 European Parliament elections to help voters identify candidates aligned with humanist values and priorities.
The Forum is funded by its 23 members and operates with transparency, being registered in the EU Transparency Register. It adheres to the common Code of Conduct required by the register and engages in lobbying activities that include direct and indirect contacts with EU institutions. Its lobbying efforts are part of a broader trend in the EU where interest groups and the Commission collaborate through forums and committees, especially in highly regulatory policy areas. The EPF’s activities reflect the EU’s approach to lobbying, which balances access and informational demands with transparency and public scrutiny.
Since its inception, the Forum has been active in networking with affiliated organizations, sharing advocacy strategies, and participating in meetings with EU officials to influence policy on human rights and related issues. Its approach exemplifies the legitimate role of lobbying in democratic systems, providing expertise and representing civil society interests at the EU level.
