Section 3: International Projects
Organisation
Competence Groups
Processes
Projects
Section 3: International Projects
Our international projects aim to create lasting, positive change for low-income communities and the planet.
We work closely with local grassroots organizations and focus on empowering the communities where we operate. Our main areas of work are energy, water, sanitation, and digitalization, often through school-based initiatives that improve education quality.
We only support projects that have strong potential for long-term impact and are located in safe, conflict-free areas.
All documents are available on our Google Drive, along with additional background materials.
If you’re not sure where to start or can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact our Head of International Projects, Susanne Hurtig, or the International Project Secretary.
Organisation
To ensure the long-term success of our international projects, EWB-SWE has established a clear and collaborative structure for project planning, support and implementation. Our organisational model brings together technical expertise, local group engagement, and dedicated project management to guide each initiative from idea to lasting impact.
The International Projects Committee oversees all international activities and ensures that each project aligns with EWB-SWE’s values and strategic goals. Within this structure, roles such as the Lead of International Operations, International Project Secretary, and International Project Coordinators play key roles in facilitating progress, offering guidance, and maintaining quality and accountability throughout the project lifecycle.
This collaborative approach allows EWB-SWE to build strong partnerships with grassroots organisations, draw on expert knowledge from Competence Groups, and support volunteer teams working in diverse sectors such as WASH, renewable energy, digitalisation, construction, and sustainable food systems.
Competence groups
What are the Competence Groups?
Competence Groups are EWB-SWE members with expertise in specific areas such as energy and waste, WASH, digitalisation, construction and sustainable food production.
The competence groups support the international project teams
Preferably each group has dedicated members of the group connected to the international project’s coordination (IPC) or a project leader.
What do they work with?
They conduct research for Best Practice
They have experience from previous EWB-SWE projects
Publications and academic work
Projects
EWB-SWE Sustainable projects
Local partner and community
Economic sustainability for local partner
The EWB-SWE project team
Competence groups (please see above)
Project process (please see above)
Considering international travel
Mapping other actors
Economic sustainability for local partner
EWB-SWE aims to empower local communities toward economic independence, so it’s vital to assess the economic impact of activities.
Employment - opportunity for local craftsmen
Use of local materials and equipment
Ensure local ownership of projects by requiring co-investment from government entities, partner organisations, community members, and other stakeholders. Contributions can include labour, materials, food, or tax reductions.
Evaluation and exit strategy
Local partners and community
Local partners are essential for EWB-SWE’s international projects. Community-founded organizations are preferred - solid ground for good impact
The partner should:
have goals in accordance to EWB
be looking for technical support
have forward-looking environmental work
display good ethical values
have a well-ordered organization
If EWB volunteers visit - the partner should also work with HSE
Processes
Project Process Overview
For an overview of the project process, please follow this link.
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please let us know by sending an email to communication@ewb-swe.org . Thank you for your support and understanding!
