November's special general meeting and board meeting resulted in the approval of association officers, board members and the endorsement of revised by-laws, including the election of a voting board seat for a representative of affiliated members, the International Association of Business Communicators.

The changes were further supported by an historic blending of international public relations associations, with the integration of the renowned Confederation Europeene des Relations Publiques (CERP) and the Global Alliance (GA).

John Paluszek commented: "We believe that through the recent efforts of many colleagues, The Global Alliance is on the threshold of new and expanded contributions to its member associations, their members, the public relations profession and, by extension, to the global society. We have a very exciting and productive time ahead."

The GA will be expanding its Landscapes study of public relations around the world, publish a landmark research study of global public relations education and launch a global sponsorship and partnership initiative. Programmes approved for study and development in 2010 include a series of webinars, association management training and an educational co-operative among member associations.