AALEP LAUNCHES A PAN-EUROPEAN CONSULTATION ON GR PRACTICE

AALEP believes that a deeper knowledge of what GR is about and does among the general public would help increase GR professional credibility and would work as a stimulus for further professionalism. The question of obtaining recognition by public authorities is not, however settled throughout Europe. Some believe that an increment of GR professional credibility will lead to a concrete recognition by public authorities; others think that it is public authorities that will lead to professional credibility. Others don’t consider recognition by public authorities so important but rather legitimacy at societal level. In practice, it is probably a combination of the three together with the development of a body of knowledge and specific standards that will move GR towards institutionalization. 

The following questions are viewed as most useful to increase the professionalization and credibility of the GR practice in Europe.

1. In your views, what is the role and value of GR to public authorities, organisations, clients and society?
2. What are the principles that unite (or should unite) GR associations and their members across Europe?
3. What should be the boundaries and contents of the GR profession determined by qualities such as competence, knowledge and reliability?
4. What are professional standards and norms that should apply for GR Practitioners?
5. How do you think standards and guidelines should be promoted?
6. How do you think organic and structured programmes of qualifications i.e. specific training and knowledge in the GR field should be established?
7. How should a positive contribution to overall professionalism in the practice of GR and its credibility (in terms of ethics, trustworthiness, expertise) be made?
8. How should professional GR practice be harmonized?
9. How should knowledge and best practice for our members be shared?
10. How should the professional development of GR be promoted?
11. How should GR skills (technical and strategic skills) be built and competences kept sharp to maintain a high level of competency?
12. How should ethical behavior and integrity in the GR practice be ensured?
13. How should GR leaders as well as leaders from other fields of professional practice be reached out to increase their awareness of GR and to engage in fruitful and positive relationships with them.

Contribution to this consultation will serve to inform the development of a comprehensive Europe-wide GR strategy to enhance our profession. This consultation is designed for GR associations throughout Europe that want to contribute their expertise and experience to this important initiative.