The multiple roles of sexological organisations

Abstract

The research question behind this article is to analyse how missions and goals for sexological organisations on various levels are described and how they can complement each other. The missions and goals of global (WAS), regional (EFS), and national organisations in Europe are described and analysed by their statutes and bylaws. The results show that organisations on all levels are occupied with sexual health and rights, sexuality education, professional education, and standards of ethics. In addition, there seems to be a division of work between the various levels of organisations: Global organisations: Network of regional federations, sexual health promotion within international organisations such as the WHO and the UN, organising congresses for presenting new research and activist work (within non-governmental organisations-NGOs) and influencing national governments. Regional organisations: Network of national organisations, harmonisation of educational programmes, organisation of regional congresses for presenting new research and new treatment methods, development of projects between different countries. National organisations: Recruitment of members, education, supervision, professional support and development, organising national conferences and meetings, influencing politicians and health & education planners.