ABSTRACT
This chapter delves into the influence of institutionalisation on the activities of civil society organisations (CSOs) dedicated to supporting migrant women. Institutionalisation refers to the process by which these organisations formalise their structures, procedures, and practices, often to align with regulatory frameworks, secure funding, and gain legitimacy. While institutionalisation can provide stability and enhance operational efficiency, it can also impose constraints that affect the flexibility and responsiveness of CSOs. The primary focus of this chapter are three Polish women's organisations supporting migrant women after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022. According to data provided by the Polish Border Guard, over two million refugees arrived in Poland within the first year of the war and over a million stayed in the country, most of them women and children. By employing a participatory research approach, it was possible to examine the CSOs' practices aimed at providing assistance to migrant women and evaluate them within the context of an ongoing migration crisis. The analysis considers both the positive outcomes of institutionalisation, such as improved resource allocation, professionalisation, and advocacy capacity, and the challenges, including potential bureaucratic rigidity, mission drift, and reduced grassroots engagement. Furthermore, adopting the perspective of situated intersectionality allows us to discuss how institutionalisation affects the ability of CSOs to address the unique needs of migrant women, who often face compounded vulnerabilities due to their migration status and gender. It explores strategies that organisations employ to maintain their community-focused approach while adhering to institutional requirements. By critically analysing these dynamics, this chapter aims to offer insights into how CSOs can balance the benefits of institutionalisation with the need to remain adaptive and responsive to the communities they serve. This discussion is vital for stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, and CSO leaders, who seek to optimise support mechanisms for migrant women. The findings underscore the importance of flexible institutional frameworks that allow CSOs to innovate and remain closely connected to their target populations. Ultimately, this chapter contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between institutionalisation and civil society action, with the goal of enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of support for migrant women across different European contexts.
