Yesterday, the Governing Board of the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD) convened for a significant meeting, marking a momentous change in leadership. After years of dedicated service, Thijs Berman, Executive Director of the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), has retired, passing the mantle of EPD President to Anu Juvonen, Executive Director of Demo Finland.
Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA’s Secretary General and a long-standing member of the EPD Governing Board, participated actively in the meeting, reaffirming her support for the new leadership. Having served as EPD President for many years herself, Antonella’s ongoing involvement continues to be invaluable to the organisation.
Reflecting on the transition, Antonella shared:
“Anu brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to democracy support, and I am sure she is going to lead EPD with great success.”
Ms. Juvonen, who has over 20 years of experience in democracy support, development policy, and international affairs, takes on this role with a rich background in international governance and civil society engagement. Her extensive career spans countries such as Nepal, Ethiopia, and Sri Lanka, where she worked in fields ranging from education to gender and community participation. As Executive Director of Demo Finland since 2016, and having held various leadership positions, she is well-prepared to guide EPD through its next chapter.
The EPD meeting also highlighted several internal strategic decisions, with a focus on continuity and innovation in supporting democratic governance globally. Under Anu’s leadership, EPD is expected to strengthen its engagement with key stakeholders, including the European External Action Service (EEAS), while continuing its mission to support democracy worldwide.
As Antonella Valmorbida remains an active and supportive member of the Board, ALDA stands firmly behind this new phase of EPD’s development, offering its expertise and commitment to fostering local democracy.
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for the EPD, and with Anu Juvonen at the helm, the organisation is set to continue its impactful work in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting global collaboration in the field of democracy support.