WISE Profile

Women's International Studies Europe (WISE) is the European association for individuals and institutions involved in women's studies, founded in 1990. WISE seeks to further feminist critiques of knowledge, and support practices and research, which will improve the quality of women's lives.
WISE aims to promote women's studies teaching, research and publication in Europe and defends the interests of women's studies on a European and international level in all appropriate institutions and organizations.

WISE is grounded in women's studies organizations throughout Europe. Wherever women's studies associations exist, they designate a representative to WISE. In other countries, representatives are either chosen locally or selected by WISE governing bodies. Today, there are national contacts in almost every country of Europe. WISE considers the contacts with national associations of vital importance.
WISE also has international thematic networks called divisions, for instance one on cultural practice and communication. This division publishes Feminist Europa, a review of books published in languages other than English.

WISE has been established as a democratic organization. All members have a vote at the General Assembly, bi-annual meetings held at major international women’s studies conferences. A Council consisting of national and division representatives elects the Board, which ensures the on-going tasks, along with the International Secretariat.

WISE is supported by the European Commission and national ministries, and recognized as a Non-Governmental Organization by the United Nations and the Council of Europe.