A Message from Kim Smouter on His Departure from ENAR

As my tenure as Executive Director of ENAR and the ENAR Foundation comes to an end, I reflect with immense gratitude on the privilege of leading this extraordinary network. For the past three years, I have been deeply honored to represent over 160 grassroots and pan-European organisations fighting to make racism history across Europe over the last 25 years. 

Being ENAR’s Director carries an incredible responsibility to represent with dignity racialised individuals who live, contribute, and shape the Europe we live in. As our ancestors have paved the way forward, I hope to have lived up to their hopes whilst carrying out the duties incumbent with that responsibility.   

Stepping away was not an easy decision, especially in a moment when the anti-racist movement faces unprecedented challenges. However, after much reflection, I believe this is the right time for me to contribute to the fight in new ways. ENAR is needed now more than ever—to be a strong, well-resourced, and unwavering advocate for racial justice. As I look forward to the next chapter in my life, I am confident in ENAR’s ability to rise to this moment with courage and determination. 

While change can be challenging, it also brings opportunity, and I have no doubt that ENAR will continue to evolve, learn, and lead. Over the past three years, we have strengthened our advocacy, expanded our reach, and built a resilient organisation that will endure beyond any single leadership term. Our mission remains unchanged: to ensure racialised communities are recognised as part of the very fabric of Europe, not as an afterthought. 

To ENAR’s members: You are the beating heart of this movement. The challenges ahead demand unity, resilience, and unwavering solidarity. In the face of growing hostility, we must stand stronger together, amplifying our collective voice and ensuring that our movement remains unstoppable. ENAR’s strength has always been in its network, and it needs to continue supporting one another, fostering collaboration, and pushing forward with the same passion and determination that has brought us this far. 

To ENAR’s funders and partners: At a time when civil society organisations are under attack and anti-racist work is increasingly demonised, your support is more critical than ever. The communities we serve—among the most vulnerable in Europe—need unwavering allies. Continued investment in racial justice is not just a moral imperative but a necessary step in defending democracy, equality, and social cohesion. Thank you for having supported such an important cause thus far and I am sure you will stand firm in your commitment to justice and equality, ensuring that those fighting for a fairer and more inclusive Europe are supported. 

To my colleagues, the Board, and the members—thank you. We have worked, laughed, debated, and grown together, and I am deeply proud of what we have achieved. ENAR has always been more than an organisation; it is a movement, a community, and a beacon of hope. As I step into my next chapter, I remain committed to this mission and will continue to support ENAR from the sidelines. 

I leave with deep admiration for the team and confidence in ENAR’s future. There is much work ahead, but I know that ENAR will continue to lead the way, challenging injustices and pushing for the systemic change Europe so urgently needs. 

With gratitude and solidarity,
Kim Smouter