Page 10 - ALG Issue 1 2023

international
Study Session in Stockholm
This year, the Secretary General of the Federation International des Jardins Familiaux stepped down after 35 years of working for the organisation. The international organisation is a European wide not-for-profit which works to promote the benefits of allotments and leisure gardening. The office has over 2 million members affiliated to it from fifteen different countries.
NAS have worked closely with Secretary General Malou Weirich for many years and 2022 was no different.
NAS President Phil Gomersall joined the 2022 study meeting of the Fédération Internationale which took place in Stockholm from 17th to 20th August 2022.
Phil attended on behalf of the UK and gave a presentation on the efforts of the National Allotment Society to preserve, promote and protect allotments in Great Britain.
After a break of two years, representatives of 11 national allotment federations in Europe were finally able to exchange their experiences and opinions in person. Topics included ‘lobbying’ and ‘cooperation with other organisations’.
The intensive, joint exchange with like- minded people brought new ideas and broadened perspectives for many. Apart from the inspiring exchange of ideas, the opportunity was also used to visit allotment garden sites in Stockholm.
Diplomas are given to member associations for ecological gardening, social activities and innovative projects.
During these visits, the diplomas of the Fédération Internationale were also handed over. These diplomas are given to member associations for ecological gardening, social activities and innovative projects.
The study meeting was a brilliant opportunity for The National Allotment Society to get an understanding of
how allotmenteering differs across the continent and to understand the unique issues faced in different countries.
As we await the appointment of a new Secretary General of the International Federation, we wish Malou a happy retirement.
10 Allotment and Leisure Gardener