PRESS RELEASE: CA meeting in St. Etienne

The Council of Administration of Eurojumelages held its annual “physical” meeting between 26th and 29th April, 2026. The meeting was held in St. Etienne, France and was organised by Michel Morel and Lydie Schmidt of the Union National des Jumelages pour Tous, France. The majority of members of the CA were present, including the Chairman, Peter Backes, the Secretary General Helene Dayan and the General Treasurer, Philippe Lebeau.

The CA discussed a lengthy and diverse agenda where in addition to the standard items that include the analysis of the activities of the previous months and the planning of future activities, discussions were also held on the consolidation of the organisation and also methods on how the individual members could be offered advice and assistance by the more experienced members and also by the CA in general. Of particular interest in the coming months will be the revision of the Articles of Association in order to ensure that there remain relevant to the current operating environment and also to allow for the widest possible membership, including that from individuals. A working team has been set up for this purpose and they are to submit a report to the CA for eventual approval by the General Assembly.

During the course of the meeting the CA also discussed at length the options that are available for simultaneous translations utilising technological advancements. This is necessary since the cost of the traditional simultaneous translations has become prohibitive and puts a serious strain on the finances of the organisation. The possibilities look promising and the matter is being closely followed up.

The CA discussed the Financial results and projections, provided by the General Treasurer. Members will be pleased to note that the restructuring of the Membership Fee approved in the GA in Portugal, is showing a positive effect on the finances of Eurojumelages. The CA remains committed to keep operating costs at the minimum and also to provide members with excellent value.

The CA is also pleased to note that there is a strong offering in the programme of events that includes language courses, cultural events and tourism. Attendance in the events remains high and indicates that members are well satisfied with these.

The CA members participated in interesting visits to local venues, that included a Coffee Producer and also a highly interesting tour of the Stadium and museum of the football club Association Sportive St. Etienne (ASSE). During the period when the CA was in session accompanying persons were also offered tours in the city.

The Council of Administration thanks all delegates for their support and active participation which led to a very successful meeting. Thanks are also due to Union National des Jumelages pour Tous for their excellent organisation and for providing everyone with a memorable stay in St. Etienne.