After more than four decades as the head of the non-profit organisation, president Gansen has decided to step down. She thus confirmed earlier rumours and provided an explanation for her decision: “I already announced that the upcoming congress would be my last as president. No matter how well an organisation is run, I believe that after a certain amount of time, others should get a chance to lead.”
President Gansen further conveyed that there are a number of unfounded allegations against her, which she all refutes. The treasurer of the Women’s Institute also recently resigned, and so far it has not been decided who will replace both women.
The remaining officials from the organisation are set to convene during the first trimester of the new year. In the meantime, an audit will be completed to clear up any ambiguities within the organisation. Since the last congress was held three years ago, members of the Institute are eager to get answers about potential misconduct from behalf of the leadership.
Financial problems in the Women’s Institute came to light after they intended to purchase a new hotel in La Panne in Belgium. However, the deal fell through when the organisation was not able to fulfil its financial obligations.
Outgoing president Gansen has stated her willingness to answer all questions that members of the organisation may have. The future of the Women’s Institute, which was founded 92 years ago, will thus be decided in 2022. The new congress will further reveal how many of the 8,000 members the organisation claims to have are actually active.
