Advocacy And Meas
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Advocacy and Multinational Environmental Agreements AN ENFORAC RESOURCE DOCUMENT 2007
Workshop Outline Day #1 – Morning Module I and II
Lunch
Module III and IV
2
Workshop Outline Day #2 – Morning Module V, and VI Practical exercise #1 – Preparation Plan Practical Exercise #2 – Networking Strategy
Lunch
Module VII and VIII Practical exercise #1 – Internet Utilisation Practical exercise #2 – Lobbying Strategy
3
Workshop Outline Day #3 – Morning Module IX and X Practical exercise #1 – Accreditation Submission Practical exercise #2 – Press Release
Lunch
Module XI and XII Practical exercise #1 – Implementation and Enforcement Strategy Practical exercise #2 – Funding Submission
4
Workshop Objectives
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the basics of Advocacy Campaigns
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the potential role of civil society in promoting Democratic Good Governance
Introduce ENFORAC members to critical MEAs and Domestic Policy documents
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the role of civil society members in MEA and Domestic Policy negotiations
5
Workshop Objectives
Create a practical Advocacy Campaign! Preparation Plan Networking Strategy Internet Utilisation Lobbying Strategy Accreditation Submission Press Release Implementation and Enforcement Strategy Funding Submission
6
Module I : Advocacy and Civil Society
What is advocacy?
Why advocacy?
What is democracy?
Civil society and democracy? 7
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? The act or process of advocating or supporting a cause or proposal
With the intent of creating (positive) changes in behaviour or policy
No “right way” to conduct advocacy
Each situation requires a specific action plan
8
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? Advocacy can occur at different levels Individual Paramount Chief District Council National Government Regional Government International Intergovernmental Level
9
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? Can occur at different stages of the decision making process Who makes the decisions What is decided: legislation, policies, budgets, programmes practices How is it decided How it is enforced or implemented: accountability, awareness raising
10
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? How advocacy occurs is important Accountability and transparency The participation of the people/communities that will be affected Their active involvement in advocating for change
11
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? People centred advocacy has its own change dynamic (teaches new skills) Strengthens its capacity, organisation and power Increases the legitimacy of community participation Improves the accountability of public institutions Improves the material situation of individuals Expands their self-awareness as citizens with both responsibilities and rights
12
Advocacy and Civil Society Why advocacy? Ultimate goal is a change at the policy level
Policy can be at any of the previously mentioned levels of governance
Often requires building support at the individual or community level
Requires training and sensitisation campaigns to change attitudes and behaviour
13
Advocacy and Civil Society Characteristics of a strong Advocate Good negotiating skills Excellent communication skills Lots of patience! Strong, clear Vision of the future Good networking skills
14
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – The Project Cycle
15
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning
Research!!!
Should guide your entire advocacy project
Project should always reflect the findings of your research
16
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Why do Research? Identification of the project Avoid damaging mistakes Identify the priorities of your beneficiaries Gives your cause legitimacy and strength Enable you to choose the most effective advocacy tool Set baselines for future comparison
17
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Research Methods Self-Administered Questionnaire Administered Questionnaire Semi-Structured Interview Focus Group Discussion Quantitative Measurements Literature Reviews Photographic and Video Recording
18
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Identifying key individuals and groups
Allies – People who are “on your side” Beneficiaries – People whose lives will be affected by the successful achievement of your Advocacy goals Adversaries – People who are opposed to what you’re doing Influencers – Those who through their position, relationship, knowledge or status are able to influence those with the power of decision making Decision Makers – ultimately, these are the people who have the POWER or authority to make decisions that will create change
19
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Importance of an Advocacy Action Plan
Identify and track critical deliverables
Set and keep to a defined timetable
Increase the transparency of your campaign
20
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing
Examples of an advocacy timetable - WaterAid
21
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing
Examples of an advocacy timetable - OXFAM
22
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing The Art of Negotiation Integrity: Make sure you have thorough understanding of what you are Advocating for Maturity: Achieve a balance of courage and consideration when discussing Abundance Mentality: Everyone can win! Relationships: Maintain relationships based on trust and understanding Agreements: Clear, specific agreements
23
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Advocacy Tools – Five Categories
24
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Advocacy Tools – How to decide?
How cost-effective is the tool? How many people will this tool reach? What sources of information does your target audience regard as credible? What specific skills does your group have? What other tools have been used on similar projects?
Have they been successful?
Is there a way to measure the success of your chosen tool?
25
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring refers to an internal project activity intended to provide constant feedback on the following: Progress of an project The problems it is facing The efficiency of its implementation
26
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Projects without effective Monitoring tend to suffer the following:
Delays and cost of overruns To exclude or under-represent certain sectors of the target population To have problems of quality control Take longer to detect antagonisms among the implementing partner and the beneficiaries 27
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring must be based on the following:
Project objectives/purpose Expected outputs Timetable Costing/budget Strategies/methods Participation of responsible persons and other stakeholders 28
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring should consider the following:
Inputs
Are inputs for project implementation reasonable?
Activities
Are appropriate procedures that are visualized by the programme followed? Are the activities appropriate and in line with the project objectives? Are all the activities being implemented following appropriate process and timing? 29
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring should consider the following:
Outputs
Have expected outputs been achieved? What is the quality and quantity of the output/s? Do these match the project objectives?
Effects and Impacts
What indications of effects and impacts of the project interventions are visualised in the targeted district/chiefdom? Are the existing indications leading the communities towards the ultimate objectives of the project? 30
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
31
Module II : Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy? 1) System of governance A government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections 32
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy? 2) A process Effective participation Voting equality at the decisive stage Enlightened understanding Control of the agenda Inclusive participant group
33
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Effective participation
Provides each individual the opportunity for expressing their preferences for decisions that are binding
34
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Voting equality at the decisive stage
Must be among and between the entire citizenry (members or employees)
35
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Enlightened understanding
Allows each citizen (member or employee) to have equal and adequate opportunity to evaluate the choice that would best serve their interests
36
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Control of the agenda
Regarding what items are to be decided through democratic decision making
37
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Inclusive participant group
The entire population that is subject to the decisions of the association
38
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy?
Four critical points!
How does this relate to advocacy?
39
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 1)
It can play a balancing role to the state and provide a check on its overall power
40
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 2)
It can increase the accountability of the state by enforcing standards of public morality
41
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 3)
It can assist in communicating the interests and demands of the citizenry to the state
42
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 4)
It can define political rules along democratic lines, in essence creating a new set of political norms
43
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? How does this relate to advocacy?
The act or process of advocating or supporting a cause or proposal
With the intent of creating (positive) changes in behaviour or policy
Process ---- must be democratic in nature for an effective and inclusive advocacy campaign!!! 44
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
45
Module III : Introducing Multinational Environmental Agreements (MEAs)
Gain a better understanding of MEAs
Defining MEAs
Sierra Leone policies and Acts
46
Introducing MEAs
An MEA is a legally binding instrument between two or more nation states that deals with some aspects of the environment Legally Binding Between two or more nation states
47
Introducing MEAs
The proliferation of MEAs Response to the gravity of environmental problems Environmental issues are often not just local
48
Introducing MEAs Basic information on MEAs organisation Secretariat
Conference of Parties
Reporting on compliance Employing or fostering mechanisms for projects dealing with MEAs implementation
Parties vs Signatory countries
Scientific Body 49
Introducing MEAs Basic information on selected MEAs For a list of critical MEAs refer to Pages 510 of the UNEP manual ; Negotiating and Implementing MEAs : A Manual for NGOs
Review the Kyoto Protocol (www.unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/283 0.php) 50
Introducing MEAs MEAs and International Law Key terms from the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties Treaty Ratification / Acceptance / Approval / Accession Reservation Party
51
Introducing MEAs MEAs and International Law
Adoption – ending of the text negotiation Signature – first step in ratification Ratification/Acceptance/Approval – national approval Entry into Force – time and number of states Accession – final acceptance Withdrawal / Denouncing – formal exit 52
Introducing MEAs Different Types of MEAs Geographic reach classification
1) •
Global, regional, multilateral or bilateral
Regulatory tool classification
1) •
Stand alone, framework agreements or appendix driven
53
Introducing MEAs Civil Society Participation – Rio Principle 10 Access to information Access to judicial measures and proceedings Access to administrative processes Access to redress Access to remedy
54
Introducing MEAs Clustering Approach 1. Sustainable development 2. Biodiversity associated 3. Chemicals and hazardous wastes 4. Regional seas and related conventions 5. 6.
Atmosphere Land 55
Introducing MEAs MEAs and National Law
Bill is introduced into Parliament Requires a majority vote of present Members of Parliament Signature by the President Becomes an Act Published in the Gazette and becomes law President can veto --- requires a 2/3 vote by Parliament to overturn a veto
56
Introducing MEAs MEAs and National Law For a list of critical Sierra Leone Environmental Laws see www.sierra-leone.org/laws
Review the Environmental Protection Act – 2000 www.sierra-leone.org/laws/2000-2.pdf
57
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
58
Module IV : The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations
Defining NGOs
NGOs at the UN and in MEAs
Defining objectives: different NGO roles in negotiations 59
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations United Nations Department of Information Non-profit citizens’ voluntary entity organised nationally or internationally Vague definition A type of civil society organisation that is formally constituted to provide a benefit to the general public or the world at large through the provision of advocacy or services 60
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations Various Terms or Definitions CSOs – Civil society organisations CBOs – Community based organisations BONGOs – Business organised NGOs ENGOs – Environmental NGOs 61
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations What it is not
Part of the government
Organised primarily for private profit
62
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs, Civil Society or Major Groups? Civil Society (UN Definition)
The associations of citizens entered into voluntarily to advance their interests, ideas and ideologies. The term does not include profit making activity or governing.
Major groups – comes from Agenda 21
63
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations UNEP Approach – functional 1. Service delivery – project based 2. Representation – citizens voices 3. Advocacy and policy inputs 4. Capacity building 5. Social functions – collective social activities 64
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs at the UN
65
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations Role of NGOs in intergovernmental processes 1. Setting agendas – public awareness raising and lobbying 2.
Negotiating outcomes – proposing initiatives states cannot propose but can support
3.
Conferring legitimacy – gives processes and outcomes more public legitimacy
4.
Implementing solutions – critical as implementing partners 66
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs within Sierra Leone
Must register with the Ministry of Development and Economic Planning Must then register with Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (SLANGO) Number of foreign NGOs operating in Sierra Leone has risen from 47 in 2000 to 189 in 2005 67
END OF DAY 1! 68
Module V : National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Learn about national and regional preparations for MEA meetings Explore possible roles for NGOs and civil society National and regional reporting priorities Role of civil society Advice for effective NGO contribution 69
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Need for national and regional preparations
Determine, establish and negotiate what the MEAs and their various components will be
Provide wide-ranging information to the international community as to how the already approved MEAs are (or are not) being applied nationally or regionally
70
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
National Preparations
This is where national interests should be considered and combined
Work with national governments to ensure that civil society inputs are heard and become part of their positions 71
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Regional Preparations (ECOWAS, Manu River Union)
This is where regional interests should be considered and combined
Work with regional governments to ensure that civil society inputs are heard and become part of their positions 72
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Possible roles of civil society
By having fluid relationships with national and regional administrative bodies By participating in national and regional committees By providing individual input into national and regional preparations By providing technical information to national and regional bodies regarding specific MEAs By providing specific input into drafting of national and regional reports By contracting with national governments and regional bodies to generate national or regional reporting or preparations 73
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Be focused and targeted
Offer specific language and proposals – provide solutions and not just criticism!
Be clear
Time is of the essence 74
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Build your information and knowledge
Coalesce within civil society
Coordinate at the national level
Ensure that national institutional structure permits civil society groups’ participation 75
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Work with different strata and sectors of the government
Build a relationship with sub-national areas of government 76
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings January February March April Get the official Arrange a meeting of Meeting to review well National NGO timeline prepared and meetings the country’s NGOs researched background Informal meetings Draft a list of potential Set a timetable to papers interest groups with national agree to a position government to find out their thoughts
May Input to regional / global coalition positions
June Input to regional / global coalition positions
September Formal meeting with national / regional government to input to their thoughts and initiate debate on the issue
July Input to regional / global coalition positions
October Formal meeting with national / regional government to input to their thoughts and initiate debate on the issue
November
August Informal meetings with national / regional government
December
Formal meeting with Meeting of the MEA national / regional Ensure that NGO input government to provide is included in the final inputs to their government position policy position and assist the government delegation during the MEA negotiation
77
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Insider Roles
Outsider Roles
Engaging in policy dialogue with decision-makers
Presenting an alternative report to an MEA meeting
Lobbying for insertion of text into declarations/reports or other such documents
Marches in the street to protest a certain issue or official position
78
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Practical Exercise Create a Preparation Plan as per the outline on slide 76
79
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
80
Module VI : Networking
Why network? Strategic choices: pros and cons of networking Multi-stakeholder networking When to network? Establishing and operating networks Existing MEA related networks 81
Networking Why network?
Sharing information
Developing shared policy positions
Clarifies priorities and facilitates a lobbying strategy
Gaining perspectives
Varying levels of expertise
Internal debate can lead to more well thought out policy
Credibility (strength in numbers)
Demonstrate wide support base for your policy 82
Networking Why network?
Pooling resources in negotiations
Pooling resources in implementation
Share funding and expertise Wider geographic reach
Capacity building
Share funding and expertise Wider consultative base
Raise the level of all members
Improved leverage and communication with official purposes
Allows access to negotiations --- limited time and space 83
Networking Climate Action Network
Worldwide network of over 340 NGOs Leading role in coordination civil society contributions to the processes under the UNFCCC
Raise awareness of climate change issues Exchange information Coordinate and develop NGO policy and strategy Monitor and seek to influence climate-related negotiations, policies and measures at national and international levels
www.climatenetwork.org Africa office is located in Dakar, Senegal 84
Networking Pros
Cons
Loosely knit network can come together as needed
Issues of accountability, responsibility and credibility
High degree of flexibility
Less professionalism, consistency and continuity
Keeps budgets low and reduces loads on individual organisations
Often relies on one or two key leaders
Can limit efforts to lowest common denominator consensus
Can get bogged down in the process---too much time convincing others about issues
Builds coherence of policy positions
Can enrich your understanding of issues and create new opportunities for implementation
85
Networking
Discuss issues related to the previous slide regarding ENFORAC
86
Networking Multi-stakeholder networks Include NGOs from a variety of backgrounds Allows for a wider range of considerations to be discussed
ie Women’s Health Groups and Environmental Groups 87
Networking Establishing and operating networks
Principles of Effective Partnerships Mutuality 2. Clearly defined expectations 3. Accountability and transparency underpinned by: trust, respect, integrity, credibility and ownership 1.
88
Networking Key aspects of coalition organisations
Coalition definition – agreement on the fundamental purposes and membership
Organising mechanisms – agreements that facilitate effective collective action
89
Networking Coalition Definition
Objectives – what do you want to achieve?
Values – what values do you have in common
Activities – what activities need to occur
Capacity – who needs to be involved? Should eligibility criteria apply 90
Networking Organising Mechanisms
Structure – what is necessary to deliver your activities
Roles and responsibilities
Shared values – how is this affected by your approach
Representation – who can speak for the organisation 91
Networking Organising Mechanisms Governance and decision making – how are decisions to be made
Accountability – how will funding be raised, managed and accounted for
Conflict management – how will inevitable conflicts be handled 92
Networking Practical Exercise Create a coalition definition for ENFORAC Include
the following:
Objectives Values Activities Capacity
93
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
94
Module VII : Using The Internet
Networking and communicating via the internet
Using the internet for information relating to MEAs
Where to start: Websites on MEAs 95
Using The Internet Using the internet to network and communicate
Email address – all groups should have one! An email listserv – group email list for mass distributions Website On-line conferencing or chat service 96
Using The Internet Limits To Technology
Internet speed
Use small files and compress pictures when possible
Internet cost
Provide group access either through dedicated resources or funding 97
Using The Internet Email lists
What is the purpose of your list?
Who can subscribe?
Individual or service (ie, groups.yahoo.com)
Who will manage the list’s content?
Restricted or open
Who will manage the list’s operation?
Who do you want to communicate with and what do you want to say
Moderators and facilitators
Additional information
www.democracygroups.org/mailinglisthowto.html
98
Using The Internet
Websites
Content – who is the target audience?
Visibility – how will people find your site?
Access – make it appropriate for slow connections!!!
Style – packaging is important
Navigation – minimise the depth of the page
Maintenance – design for ease of maintenance 99
Using The Internet Effective website content
Contact information – must be up to date!
Photos – that accurately describe your group
Expert articles – links to any published articles
Media coverage – archive any media coverage you receive
Links to affiliates 100
Using The Internet On-line conferencing or chat services MSN Messenger Allows real time discussions Files can be shared Low cost tool for regional networks
Other services such as Yahoo have similar capabilities Video conferencing can be done with an internet camera 101
Using The Internet Internet search techniques Search engines --- www.google.com
Issues Too much information Not all information is credible!
102
Using The Internet Internet credibility
Web addresses
Standard top-level domain
Who wrote the site / what are their credentials
Reliable information
Page address – if it is a person’s name it may be a personal site rather than a group
Authorship
ie, .org – organisation, .edu – educational
Are sources referenced and linked Compare facts with other sources
Affiliations
Does the site indicate partners or funders 103
Using The Internet Websites on MEAs Official websites
Reporting
NGO websites
104
Using The Internet Practical Exercise 1. Create an email list for the ENFORAC group 2.
Using google, search and find the following documents a)
b)
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) Sierra Leone Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper, June 10, 2005
105
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
106
Module VIII : Attending MEA Meetings
Why attend an MEA meeting
How meetings operate: meet actors and learn the jargon
Preparing for MEA meetings
Successful lobbying techniques 107
Attending MEA Meetings Why attend an MEA meeting? To influence the text that will be negotiated To build and cultivate alliances for future work To show case studies of successes your organisation has achieved To learn how intergovernmental negotiations work To raise funds for your work 108
Attending MEA Meetings Before the meeting *** Prioritise your policy aims *** Are your aims feasible Are you moving beyond the possible range of outcomes to put down markers for future campaigns What are your top four or five issues What do you want to achieve Keep track of governments / NGOs positions
109
Attending MEA Meetings Funding to attend – possible sources
Your own government Western country NGOs that you partner with Western countries that are active in your country Regional governments UN Agencies and Programmes such as UNDP or UNEP UN Non Governmental Liason Service Your fellow NGOs 110
Attending MEA Meetings Meet the actors Bureaus – oversee the running of the meeting
Usually 5-10 people (1 or 2 fro meahc regional block)
Secretariat – permanent body assigned to the MEA
Handled much of the meeting logistics
111
Attending MEA Meetings Meet the actors
NGO or Stakeholder relations person
Executive director of the Convention
The “fixer”
Person in charge of the text section you are interested in
UN Agencies and Programmes
UNEP or MEAs COP Observers
112
Attending MEA Meetings Five Regional Blocks African States – www.africa-union.org
1. •
Sun-Saharan and North Africa
1.
Asian States
2.
Eastern European States
3.
Latin America and Caribbean States
4.
Western Europe and other Groups 113
Attending MEA Meetings Negotiating Blocks European Union
Group of 77 and China
Has expanded to include 135 members Sierra Leone is a member of this block
Alliance of Small Island States
JUSCANZ – non-EU western nations
Least Developed Countries
www.un.org/special-rep/ohrlls/ldc/default.htm
114
Attending MEA Meetings Types of Sessions
Committee of the Whole
Formal session of a UNEP or MEA COP
Contact groups – set up to resolve a specific disagreement
Friends of the Chair – chair selects a core group of negotiators
Informals – work on a set of critical issues
Working groups – subsidiary body of the COW 115
Attending MEA Meetings Government Delegations Why go? Access to the brief of your country Access to delegation meetings Ability to push for the NGO stakeholder position Act as a liason between NGOs and the government May be asked to be part of text writing Cultivate relationships for future work
116
Attending MEA Meetings Government Delegations The downside May lose some independence Limited time to be with the other NGO actors You may be seen as a doorkeeper for NGOs within the delegation NGOs may feel you have ‘switched sides’ May not be allowed to speak publicly on a position
117
Attending MEA Meetings Getting your message across
English – generally the working language Publications – look professional and translate to French and Spanish if possible Written statement – keep it short and concise Oral statements – keep it short and concise Previously agreed text – ensure you have read all previously agreed text Rules of Procedure – have a copy and follow them
118
Attending MEA Meetings Practical Exercise Create a lobbying strategy based on the criteria from slide 108 Use the bullet points as sub-titles
119
END OF DAY 2! 120
Module IX : Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats Learn how to gain access to MEA negotiations and secretariats
Obtaining accreditation
Obtaining official documents
NGO documents and verbal presentations 121
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Obtaining Accreditation
Ongoing accreditation (consultative status)
Economic and Social Council
Activities must relate to the ECOSOC mandate www.un.org/esa/coordination/ngo
United Nations Environmental Programme 1. 2. 3.
Consultative status allows groups to provide written inputs and statements on working documents Proof of international work Confirmation of interest in the environmental field Proof of non-profit status www.unep.org/civil_society/index.asp 122
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Obtaining Accreditation
Temporary (conference) accreditation
Relevance to the event Legal status
Issues with accreditation
Language Cost Time 123
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats Obtaining official documents
Include information on negotiating positions Can be accessed directly from the internet or through mailing lists
Gaining opportunities to present texts and verbal statements Informal routes can be easily accessed Formal routes require the Secretariat’s approval General guidelines
Coalitions should speak as a group Keep within the time limits Simple and to the point language should be used
124
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Practical Exercise Complete the ECOSOC accreditation form located at www.un.org/esa/coordination/ngo
125
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
126
Module X : Communicating To News Media
Approaching and communicating with journalists
Communicating through and with local and national media
Accessing international media at MEA meetings
Organising press conferences
Setting broader communications strategies
127
Communicating To News Media Why work with the media at UN or MEA negotiations Increase public awareness of :
The issues The positions of NGOs The activities of NGOs in the field
Can help NGOS to :
Increase pressure on political leaders Influence the position of governments Build active constituencies with nations
128
Communicating To News Media Who the media are Over 200 correspondents regularly cover the UN
They report for over 100 media outlets
These serve virtually every country and geographic region
129
Communicating To News Media
What to give the press?
Media Advisories
Keep it o less than one page Describe the event, who is involved, when it is taking place and who are the sponsors
Press Release
Complete – what, when, where, why and who Clearly written Concise – no more than two pages Current Correct 130
Communicating To News Media Where to present it?
Press conferences
Hold joint conferences with other NGOs and partners Hold it close to the main press corp offices
Press kits (combined with the conference)
Press release Charts or diagrams with relevant statistics Edited quotes from previous documents Copies of previous news articles 131
Communicating To News Media
Responding to criticism
Carefully check and re-check all facts Analyse your statements and prepare for any lines of attack Stay calm and focus on the issue Address any factual mistakes Communicate with friends and allies Be aware of any economic or political motivation for the criticism Utilise the response to re-state your position
132
Communicating To News Media Providing day-to-day materials to news organisations Letters to the editor
Opinion articles
Information or educational material
Announcements
Paid advertisements 133
Communicating To News Media What’s the priority?
Provide factual information that the general public would not ordinarily obtain Interpret facts so that journalists and their audiences can see how they support certain policies or actions Build public and political support for positive environmental policies Encourage individuals to effect change in their own lives Publicize your own organisation to increase stature in future debates 134
Communicating To News Media
Practical Exercise
Create a Press Release using a theoretical policy stance related to an MEA or domestic conference Must include the following Press Release
Complete – what, when, where, why and who Clearly written Concise – no more than two pages Current Correct 135
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
136
Module XI : Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Learn what happens once MEAs are agreed and ratified
Implementation and enforcement efforts
Some definitions: compliance and enforcement
Examples of civil society roles in implementation and enforcement
137
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Implementation and Enforcement
Substantive – moving toward employing measures that improve the particular environmental issues committed to I na particular MEA
Procedural – meeting with the procedures established by the MEA 138
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Definitions (as per UNEP)
Compliance – the state of conformity with obligations, imposed by a State, its competent authorities and agencies on the regulated community whether directly or through conditions and requirements in permits, licences and authorisations, in implementing MEAs
139
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Definitions (as per UNEP)
Enforcement – means the range of procedures and actions employed by a State, its competent authorities and agencies to ensure that organisations or persons, potentially failing to comply with environmental laws or regulations implementing MEAs, can be brought or returned into compliance and/or punished through civil, administrative or criminal action
140
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
Developing national campaigns to address specific MEAs
Provide research to relevant state actors
Training relevant stakeholders and decision makers
Taking part in expert groups related to MEA accords
141
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
Participating in consultations for the establishment of national implementation plans or strategies
Using international agreements a country is party to as leverage for domestic application of norms
Providing informed opinions regarding implementation of MEAs at the national level, articulating domestic limitations and priorities 142
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
*** ENGAGEMENT *** *** ENGAGEMENT *** *** ENGAGEMENT *** 143
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs National Action Plans or National Strategies
Take stock of issues at the national level involving all relevant sectors
Express how a state will meet all its MEArelated requirements
Highlight the gaps in national policies or domestic situations
Generate consciousness and engender collaboration and information exchange
144
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Reporting, Monitoring and Verification MEA compliance requires the reporting of specific data MEA secretariats gather this information
Role of civil society Provide data when asked by national government Confirm or contradict ‘official data’
145
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Enforcement Utilising the legal system
Indian ‘shahtoosh’ case
Creating new norms of behaviour
Training and sensitisation
146
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Practical Exercise Create a monitoring plan based on the Sierra Leone Environmental Protection Act Address
the concerns and criteria from slide 143
147
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
148
Module XII : Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects
Understanding timelines and at times priorities for funders vs NGOs
Creating relationships with funders
Submitting funding proposals
Specific potential funders 149
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Understanding timelines and conditions for funders Process can be slow!
DFID can take an average of ten months for approval
Stage 1 – Concept Note (~2-3 pages) Information on the organisation Information on the project A preliminary logical framework for the project
Stage 2 – Full Proposal (~10 pages)
150
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Tips on Fundraising
Pay attention to the specific requests or requirements
Is this the right funder or funders’ line
Does the funder provide funding up front or after you provide receipts
Are matching funds required
Have you calculated your budget in the right currency 151
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Tips on Fundraising
Pay attention to the specific requests or requirements
Is this the right funder or funders’ line
Does the funder provide funding up front or after you provide receipts
Are matching funds required
Have you calculated your budget in the right currency 152
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Potential Funders
National governments Regional and local governments UN agencies and other intergovernmental bodies The UN foundation The EU Foundations Lotteries Companies Other NGOs 153
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects National Governments Typically in the west
Look at the following Ministries Development Environment Foreign Affairs Trade and Development
154
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects UN Agencies and other intergovernmental bodies Global Environment Fund (World Bank) Development Banks EU FAO UNDP UNEP WHO World Bank 155
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Practical Exercise Complete the funding documentation for the World Bank, ‘Lighting Africa’ project This
will require the group to register ENFORAC as a member
http://lightingafrica.org/index.cfm? Page=dm 156
END OF DAY 3! 157
Workshop Outline Day #1 – Morning Module I and II
Lunch
Module III and IV
2
Workshop Outline Day #2 – Morning Module V, and VI Practical exercise #1 – Preparation Plan Practical Exercise #2 – Networking Strategy
Lunch
Module VII and VIII Practical exercise #1 – Internet Utilisation Practical exercise #2 – Lobbying Strategy
3
Workshop Outline Day #3 – Morning Module IX and X Practical exercise #1 – Accreditation Submission Practical exercise #2 – Press Release
Lunch
Module XI and XII Practical exercise #1 – Implementation and Enforcement Strategy Practical exercise #2 – Funding Submission
4
Workshop Objectives
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the basics of Advocacy Campaigns
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the potential role of civil society in promoting Democratic Good Governance
Introduce ENFORAC members to critical MEAs and Domestic Policy documents
Sensitise ENFORAC members regarding the role of civil society members in MEA and Domestic Policy negotiations
5
Workshop Objectives
Create a practical Advocacy Campaign! Preparation Plan Networking Strategy Internet Utilisation Lobbying Strategy Accreditation Submission Press Release Implementation and Enforcement Strategy Funding Submission
6
Module I : Advocacy and Civil Society
What is advocacy?
Why advocacy?
What is democracy?
Civil society and democracy? 7
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? The act or process of advocating or supporting a cause or proposal
With the intent of creating (positive) changes in behaviour or policy
No “right way” to conduct advocacy
Each situation requires a specific action plan
8
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? Advocacy can occur at different levels Individual Paramount Chief District Council National Government Regional Government International Intergovernmental Level
9
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? Can occur at different stages of the decision making process Who makes the decisions What is decided: legislation, policies, budgets, programmes practices How is it decided How it is enforced or implemented: accountability, awareness raising
10
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? How advocacy occurs is important Accountability and transparency The participation of the people/communities that will be affected Their active involvement in advocating for change
11
Advocacy and Civil Society What is advocacy? People centred advocacy has its own change dynamic (teaches new skills) Strengthens its capacity, organisation and power Increases the legitimacy of community participation Improves the accountability of public institutions Improves the material situation of individuals Expands their self-awareness as citizens with both responsibilities and rights
12
Advocacy and Civil Society Why advocacy? Ultimate goal is a change at the policy level
Policy can be at any of the previously mentioned levels of governance
Often requires building support at the individual or community level
Requires training and sensitisation campaigns to change attitudes and behaviour
13
Advocacy and Civil Society Characteristics of a strong Advocate Good negotiating skills Excellent communication skills Lots of patience! Strong, clear Vision of the future Good networking skills
14
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – The Project Cycle
15
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning
Research!!!
Should guide your entire advocacy project
Project should always reflect the findings of your research
16
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Why do Research? Identification of the project Avoid damaging mistakes Identify the priorities of your beneficiaries Gives your cause legitimacy and strength Enable you to choose the most effective advocacy tool Set baselines for future comparison
17
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Research Methods Self-Administered Questionnaire Administered Questionnaire Semi-Structured Interview Focus Group Discussion Quantitative Measurements Literature Reviews Photographic and Video Recording
18
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Planning Identifying key individuals and groups
Allies – People who are “on your side” Beneficiaries – People whose lives will be affected by the successful achievement of your Advocacy goals Adversaries – People who are opposed to what you’re doing Influencers – Those who through their position, relationship, knowledge or status are able to influence those with the power of decision making Decision Makers – ultimately, these are the people who have the POWER or authority to make decisions that will create change
19
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Importance of an Advocacy Action Plan
Identify and track critical deliverables
Set and keep to a defined timetable
Increase the transparency of your campaign
20
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing
Examples of an advocacy timetable - WaterAid
21
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing
Examples of an advocacy timetable - OXFAM
22
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing The Art of Negotiation Integrity: Make sure you have thorough understanding of what you are Advocating for Maturity: Achieve a balance of courage and consideration when discussing Abundance Mentality: Everyone can win! Relationships: Maintain relationships based on trust and understanding Agreements: Clear, specific agreements
23
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Advocacy Tools – Five Categories
24
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Doing Advocacy Tools – How to decide?
How cost-effective is the tool? How many people will this tool reach? What sources of information does your target audience regard as credible? What specific skills does your group have? What other tools have been used on similar projects?
Have they been successful?
Is there a way to measure the success of your chosen tool?
25
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring refers to an internal project activity intended to provide constant feedback on the following: Progress of an project The problems it is facing The efficiency of its implementation
26
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Projects without effective Monitoring tend to suffer the following:
Delays and cost of overruns To exclude or under-represent certain sectors of the target population To have problems of quality control Take longer to detect antagonisms among the implementing partner and the beneficiaries 27
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring must be based on the following:
Project objectives/purpose Expected outputs Timetable Costing/budget Strategies/methods Participation of responsible persons and other stakeholders 28
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring should consider the following:
Inputs
Are inputs for project implementation reasonable?
Activities
Are appropriate procedures that are visualized by the programme followed? Are the activities appropriate and in line with the project objectives? Are all the activities being implemented following appropriate process and timing? 29
Advocacy and Civil Society Conducting an Advocacy Campaign – Review and Analyse Monitoring should consider the following:
Outputs
Have expected outputs been achieved? What is the quality and quantity of the output/s? Do these match the project objectives?
Effects and Impacts
What indications of effects and impacts of the project interventions are visualised in the targeted district/chiefdom? Are the existing indications leading the communities towards the ultimate objectives of the project? 30
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
31
Module II : Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy? 1) System of governance A government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections 32
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy? 2) A process Effective participation Voting equality at the decisive stage Enlightened understanding Control of the agenda Inclusive participant group
33
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Effective participation
Provides each individual the opportunity for expressing their preferences for decisions that are binding
34
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Voting equality at the decisive stage
Must be among and between the entire citizenry (members or employees)
35
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Enlightened understanding
Allows each citizen (member or employee) to have equal and adequate opportunity to evaluate the choice that would best serve their interests
36
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Control of the agenda
Regarding what items are to be decided through democratic decision making
37
Democracy and Civil Society What is democracy?
Inclusive participant group
The entire population that is subject to the decisions of the association
38
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy?
Four critical points!
How does this relate to advocacy?
39
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 1)
It can play a balancing role to the state and provide a check on its overall power
40
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 2)
It can increase the accountability of the state by enforcing standards of public morality
41
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 3)
It can assist in communicating the interests and demands of the citizenry to the state
42
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? What role does civil society have in promoting democracy? 4)
It can define political rules along democratic lines, in essence creating a new set of political norms
43
Democracy and Civil Society Civil society and democracy? How does this relate to advocacy?
The act or process of advocating or supporting a cause or proposal
With the intent of creating (positive) changes in behaviour or policy
Process ---- must be democratic in nature for an effective and inclusive advocacy campaign!!! 44
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
45
Module III : Introducing Multinational Environmental Agreements (MEAs)
Gain a better understanding of MEAs
Defining MEAs
Sierra Leone policies and Acts
46
Introducing MEAs
An MEA is a legally binding instrument between two or more nation states that deals with some aspects of the environment Legally Binding Between two or more nation states
47
Introducing MEAs
The proliferation of MEAs Response to the gravity of environmental problems Environmental issues are often not just local
48
Introducing MEAs Basic information on MEAs organisation Secretariat
Conference of Parties
Reporting on compliance Employing or fostering mechanisms for projects dealing with MEAs implementation
Parties vs Signatory countries
Scientific Body 49
Introducing MEAs Basic information on selected MEAs For a list of critical MEAs refer to Pages 510 of the UNEP manual ; Negotiating and Implementing MEAs : A Manual for NGOs
Review the Kyoto Protocol (www.unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/283 0.php) 50
Introducing MEAs MEAs and International Law Key terms from the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties Treaty Ratification / Acceptance / Approval / Accession Reservation Party
51
Introducing MEAs MEAs and International Law
Adoption – ending of the text negotiation Signature – first step in ratification Ratification/Acceptance/Approval – national approval Entry into Force – time and number of states Accession – final acceptance Withdrawal / Denouncing – formal exit 52
Introducing MEAs Different Types of MEAs Geographic reach classification
1) •
Global, regional, multilateral or bilateral
Regulatory tool classification
1) •
Stand alone, framework agreements or appendix driven
53
Introducing MEAs Civil Society Participation – Rio Principle 10 Access to information Access to judicial measures and proceedings Access to administrative processes Access to redress Access to remedy
54
Introducing MEAs Clustering Approach 1. Sustainable development 2. Biodiversity associated 3. Chemicals and hazardous wastes 4. Regional seas and related conventions 5. 6.
Atmosphere Land 55
Introducing MEAs MEAs and National Law
Bill is introduced into Parliament Requires a majority vote of present Members of Parliament Signature by the President Becomes an Act Published in the Gazette and becomes law President can veto --- requires a 2/3 vote by Parliament to overturn a veto
56
Introducing MEAs MEAs and National Law For a list of critical Sierra Leone Environmental Laws see www.sierra-leone.org/laws
Review the Environmental Protection Act – 2000 www.sierra-leone.org/laws/2000-2.pdf
57
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
58
Module IV : The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations
Defining NGOs
NGOs at the UN and in MEAs
Defining objectives: different NGO roles in negotiations 59
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations United Nations Department of Information Non-profit citizens’ voluntary entity organised nationally or internationally Vague definition A type of civil society organisation that is formally constituted to provide a benefit to the general public or the world at large through the provision of advocacy or services 60
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations Various Terms or Definitions CSOs – Civil society organisations CBOs – Community based organisations BONGOs – Business organised NGOs ENGOs – Environmental NGOs 61
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations What it is not
Part of the government
Organised primarily for private profit
62
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs, Civil Society or Major Groups? Civil Society (UN Definition)
The associations of citizens entered into voluntarily to advance their interests, ideas and ideologies. The term does not include profit making activity or governing.
Major groups – comes from Agenda 21
63
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations UNEP Approach – functional 1. Service delivery – project based 2. Representation – citizens voices 3. Advocacy and policy inputs 4. Capacity building 5. Social functions – collective social activities 64
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs at the UN
65
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations Role of NGOs in intergovernmental processes 1. Setting agendas – public awareness raising and lobbying 2.
Negotiating outcomes – proposing initiatives states cannot propose but can support
3.
Conferring legitimacy – gives processes and outcomes more public legitimacy
4.
Implementing solutions – critical as implementing partners 66
The Role of NGOs in MEA Negotiations NGOs within Sierra Leone
Must register with the Ministry of Development and Economic Planning Must then register with Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (SLANGO) Number of foreign NGOs operating in Sierra Leone has risen from 47 in 2000 to 189 in 2005 67
END OF DAY 1! 68
Module V : National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Learn about national and regional preparations for MEA meetings Explore possible roles for NGOs and civil society National and regional reporting priorities Role of civil society Advice for effective NGO contribution 69
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Need for national and regional preparations
Determine, establish and negotiate what the MEAs and their various components will be
Provide wide-ranging information to the international community as to how the already approved MEAs are (or are not) being applied nationally or regionally
70
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
National Preparations
This is where national interests should be considered and combined
Work with national governments to ensure that civil society inputs are heard and become part of their positions 71
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Regional Preparations (ECOWAS, Manu River Union)
This is where regional interests should be considered and combined
Work with regional governments to ensure that civil society inputs are heard and become part of their positions 72
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Possible roles of civil society
By having fluid relationships with national and regional administrative bodies By participating in national and regional committees By providing individual input into national and regional preparations By providing technical information to national and regional bodies regarding specific MEAs By providing specific input into drafting of national and regional reports By contracting with national governments and regional bodies to generate national or regional reporting or preparations 73
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Be focused and targeted
Offer specific language and proposals – provide solutions and not just criticism!
Be clear
Time is of the essence 74
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Build your information and knowledge
Coalesce within civil society
Coordinate at the national level
Ensure that national institutional structure permits civil society groups’ participation 75
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Advice for civil society input into national and regional preparations
Work with different strata and sectors of the government
Build a relationship with sub-national areas of government 76
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings January February March April Get the official Arrange a meeting of Meeting to review well National NGO timeline prepared and meetings the country’s NGOs researched background Informal meetings Draft a list of potential Set a timetable to papers interest groups with national agree to a position government to find out their thoughts
May Input to regional / global coalition positions
June Input to regional / global coalition positions
September Formal meeting with national / regional government to input to their thoughts and initiate debate on the issue
July Input to regional / global coalition positions
October Formal meeting with national / regional government to input to their thoughts and initiate debate on the issue
November
August Informal meetings with national / regional government
December
Formal meeting with Meeting of the MEA national / regional Ensure that NGO input government to provide is included in the final inputs to their government position policy position and assist the government delegation during the MEA negotiation
77
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Insider Roles
Outsider Roles
Engaging in policy dialogue with decision-makers
Presenting an alternative report to an MEA meeting
Lobbying for insertion of text into declarations/reports or other such documents
Marches in the street to protest a certain issue or official position
78
National and Regional Preparations for MEA Meetings
Practical Exercise Create a Preparation Plan as per the outline on slide 76
79
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
80
Module VI : Networking
Why network? Strategic choices: pros and cons of networking Multi-stakeholder networking When to network? Establishing and operating networks Existing MEA related networks 81
Networking Why network?
Sharing information
Developing shared policy positions
Clarifies priorities and facilitates a lobbying strategy
Gaining perspectives
Varying levels of expertise
Internal debate can lead to more well thought out policy
Credibility (strength in numbers)
Demonstrate wide support base for your policy 82
Networking Why network?
Pooling resources in negotiations
Pooling resources in implementation
Share funding and expertise Wider geographic reach
Capacity building
Share funding and expertise Wider consultative base
Raise the level of all members
Improved leverage and communication with official purposes
Allows access to negotiations --- limited time and space 83
Networking Climate Action Network
Worldwide network of over 340 NGOs Leading role in coordination civil society contributions to the processes under the UNFCCC
Raise awareness of climate change issues Exchange information Coordinate and develop NGO policy and strategy Monitor and seek to influence climate-related negotiations, policies and measures at national and international levels
www.climatenetwork.org Africa office is located in Dakar, Senegal 84
Networking Pros
Cons
Loosely knit network can come together as needed
Issues of accountability, responsibility and credibility
High degree of flexibility
Less professionalism, consistency and continuity
Keeps budgets low and reduces loads on individual organisations
Often relies on one or two key leaders
Can limit efforts to lowest common denominator consensus
Can get bogged down in the process---too much time convincing others about issues
Builds coherence of policy positions
Can enrich your understanding of issues and create new opportunities for implementation
85
Networking
Discuss issues related to the previous slide regarding ENFORAC
86
Networking Multi-stakeholder networks Include NGOs from a variety of backgrounds Allows for a wider range of considerations to be discussed
ie Women’s Health Groups and Environmental Groups 87
Networking Establishing and operating networks
Principles of Effective Partnerships Mutuality 2. Clearly defined expectations 3. Accountability and transparency underpinned by: trust, respect, integrity, credibility and ownership 1.
88
Networking Key aspects of coalition organisations
Coalition definition – agreement on the fundamental purposes and membership
Organising mechanisms – agreements that facilitate effective collective action
89
Networking Coalition Definition
Objectives – what do you want to achieve?
Values – what values do you have in common
Activities – what activities need to occur
Capacity – who needs to be involved? Should eligibility criteria apply 90
Networking Organising Mechanisms
Structure – what is necessary to deliver your activities
Roles and responsibilities
Shared values – how is this affected by your approach
Representation – who can speak for the organisation 91
Networking Organising Mechanisms Governance and decision making – how are decisions to be made
Accountability – how will funding be raised, managed and accounted for
Conflict management – how will inevitable conflicts be handled 92
Networking Practical Exercise Create a coalition definition for ENFORAC Include
the following:
Objectives Values Activities Capacity
93
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
94
Module VII : Using The Internet
Networking and communicating via the internet
Using the internet for information relating to MEAs
Where to start: Websites on MEAs 95
Using The Internet Using the internet to network and communicate
Email address – all groups should have one! An email listserv – group email list for mass distributions Website On-line conferencing or chat service 96
Using The Internet Limits To Technology
Internet speed
Use small files and compress pictures when possible
Internet cost
Provide group access either through dedicated resources or funding 97
Using The Internet Email lists
What is the purpose of your list?
Who can subscribe?
Individual or service (ie, groups.yahoo.com)
Who will manage the list’s content?
Restricted or open
Who will manage the list’s operation?
Who do you want to communicate with and what do you want to say
Moderators and facilitators
Additional information
www.democracygroups.org/mailinglisthowto.html
98
Using The Internet
Websites
Content – who is the target audience?
Visibility – how will people find your site?
Access – make it appropriate for slow connections!!!
Style – packaging is important
Navigation – minimise the depth of the page
Maintenance – design for ease of maintenance 99
Using The Internet Effective website content
Contact information – must be up to date!
Photos – that accurately describe your group
Expert articles – links to any published articles
Media coverage – archive any media coverage you receive
Links to affiliates 100
Using The Internet On-line conferencing or chat services MSN Messenger Allows real time discussions Files can be shared Low cost tool for regional networks
Other services such as Yahoo have similar capabilities Video conferencing can be done with an internet camera 101
Using The Internet Internet search techniques Search engines --- www.google.com
Issues Too much information Not all information is credible!
102
Using The Internet Internet credibility
Web addresses
Standard top-level domain
Who wrote the site / what are their credentials
Reliable information
Page address – if it is a person’s name it may be a personal site rather than a group
Authorship
ie, .org – organisation, .edu – educational
Are sources referenced and linked Compare facts with other sources
Affiliations
Does the site indicate partners or funders 103
Using The Internet Websites on MEAs Official websites
Reporting
NGO websites
104
Using The Internet Practical Exercise 1. Create an email list for the ENFORAC group 2.
Using google, search and find the following documents a)
b)
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) Sierra Leone Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper, June 10, 2005
105
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
106
Module VIII : Attending MEA Meetings
Why attend an MEA meeting
How meetings operate: meet actors and learn the jargon
Preparing for MEA meetings
Successful lobbying techniques 107
Attending MEA Meetings Why attend an MEA meeting? To influence the text that will be negotiated To build and cultivate alliances for future work To show case studies of successes your organisation has achieved To learn how intergovernmental negotiations work To raise funds for your work 108
Attending MEA Meetings Before the meeting *** Prioritise your policy aims *** Are your aims feasible Are you moving beyond the possible range of outcomes to put down markers for future campaigns What are your top four or five issues What do you want to achieve Keep track of governments / NGOs positions
109
Attending MEA Meetings Funding to attend – possible sources
Your own government Western country NGOs that you partner with Western countries that are active in your country Regional governments UN Agencies and Programmes such as UNDP or UNEP UN Non Governmental Liason Service Your fellow NGOs 110
Attending MEA Meetings Meet the actors Bureaus – oversee the running of the meeting
Usually 5-10 people (1 or 2 fro meahc regional block)
Secretariat – permanent body assigned to the MEA
Handled much of the meeting logistics
111
Attending MEA Meetings Meet the actors
NGO or Stakeholder relations person
Executive director of the Convention
The “fixer”
Person in charge of the text section you are interested in
UN Agencies and Programmes
UNEP or MEAs COP Observers
112
Attending MEA Meetings Five Regional Blocks African States – www.africa-union.org
1. •
Sun-Saharan and North Africa
1.
Asian States
2.
Eastern European States
3.
Latin America and Caribbean States
4.
Western Europe and other Groups 113
Attending MEA Meetings Negotiating Blocks European Union
Group of 77 and China
Has expanded to include 135 members Sierra Leone is a member of this block
Alliance of Small Island States
JUSCANZ – non-EU western nations
Least Developed Countries
www.un.org/special-rep/ohrlls/ldc/default.htm
114
Attending MEA Meetings Types of Sessions
Committee of the Whole
Formal session of a UNEP or MEA COP
Contact groups – set up to resolve a specific disagreement
Friends of the Chair – chair selects a core group of negotiators
Informals – work on a set of critical issues
Working groups – subsidiary body of the COW 115
Attending MEA Meetings Government Delegations Why go? Access to the brief of your country Access to delegation meetings Ability to push for the NGO stakeholder position Act as a liason between NGOs and the government May be asked to be part of text writing Cultivate relationships for future work
116
Attending MEA Meetings Government Delegations The downside May lose some independence Limited time to be with the other NGO actors You may be seen as a doorkeeper for NGOs within the delegation NGOs may feel you have ‘switched sides’ May not be allowed to speak publicly on a position
117
Attending MEA Meetings Getting your message across
English – generally the working language Publications – look professional and translate to French and Spanish if possible Written statement – keep it short and concise Oral statements – keep it short and concise Previously agreed text – ensure you have read all previously agreed text Rules of Procedure – have a copy and follow them
118
Attending MEA Meetings Practical Exercise Create a lobbying strategy based on the criteria from slide 108 Use the bullet points as sub-titles
119
END OF DAY 2! 120
Module IX : Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats Learn how to gain access to MEA negotiations and secretariats
Obtaining accreditation
Obtaining official documents
NGO documents and verbal presentations 121
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Obtaining Accreditation
Ongoing accreditation (consultative status)
Economic and Social Council
Activities must relate to the ECOSOC mandate www.un.org/esa/coordination/ngo
United Nations Environmental Programme 1. 2. 3.
Consultative status allows groups to provide written inputs and statements on working documents Proof of international work Confirmation of interest in the environmental field Proof of non-profit status www.unep.org/civil_society/index.asp 122
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Obtaining Accreditation
Temporary (conference) accreditation
Relevance to the event Legal status
Issues with accreditation
Language Cost Time 123
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats Obtaining official documents
Include information on negotiating positions Can be accessed directly from the internet or through mailing lists
Gaining opportunities to present texts and verbal statements Informal routes can be easily accessed Formal routes require the Secretariat’s approval General guidelines
Coalitions should speak as a group Keep within the time limits Simple and to the point language should be used
124
Gaining Access to MEA Negotiations and Secretariats
Practical Exercise Complete the ECOSOC accreditation form located at www.un.org/esa/coordination/ngo
125
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
126
Module X : Communicating To News Media
Approaching and communicating with journalists
Communicating through and with local and national media
Accessing international media at MEA meetings
Organising press conferences
Setting broader communications strategies
127
Communicating To News Media Why work with the media at UN or MEA negotiations Increase public awareness of :
The issues The positions of NGOs The activities of NGOs in the field
Can help NGOS to :
Increase pressure on political leaders Influence the position of governments Build active constituencies with nations
128
Communicating To News Media Who the media are Over 200 correspondents regularly cover the UN
They report for over 100 media outlets
These serve virtually every country and geographic region
129
Communicating To News Media
What to give the press?
Media Advisories
Keep it o less than one page Describe the event, who is involved, when it is taking place and who are the sponsors
Press Release
Complete – what, when, where, why and who Clearly written Concise – no more than two pages Current Correct 130
Communicating To News Media Where to present it?
Press conferences
Hold joint conferences with other NGOs and partners Hold it close to the main press corp offices
Press kits (combined with the conference)
Press release Charts or diagrams with relevant statistics Edited quotes from previous documents Copies of previous news articles 131
Communicating To News Media
Responding to criticism
Carefully check and re-check all facts Analyse your statements and prepare for any lines of attack Stay calm and focus on the issue Address any factual mistakes Communicate with friends and allies Be aware of any economic or political motivation for the criticism Utilise the response to re-state your position
132
Communicating To News Media Providing day-to-day materials to news organisations Letters to the editor
Opinion articles
Information or educational material
Announcements
Paid advertisements 133
Communicating To News Media What’s the priority?
Provide factual information that the general public would not ordinarily obtain Interpret facts so that journalists and their audiences can see how they support certain policies or actions Build public and political support for positive environmental policies Encourage individuals to effect change in their own lives Publicize your own organisation to increase stature in future debates 134
Communicating To News Media
Practical Exercise
Create a Press Release using a theoretical policy stance related to an MEA or domestic conference Must include the following Press Release
Complete – what, when, where, why and who Clearly written Concise – no more than two pages Current Correct 135
LUNCH TIME Please be back in 1 hour!
136
Module XI : Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Learn what happens once MEAs are agreed and ratified
Implementation and enforcement efforts
Some definitions: compliance and enforcement
Examples of civil society roles in implementation and enforcement
137
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Implementation and Enforcement
Substantive – moving toward employing measures that improve the particular environmental issues committed to I na particular MEA
Procedural – meeting with the procedures established by the MEA 138
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Definitions (as per UNEP)
Compliance – the state of conformity with obligations, imposed by a State, its competent authorities and agencies on the regulated community whether directly or through conditions and requirements in permits, licences and authorisations, in implementing MEAs
139
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Definitions (as per UNEP)
Enforcement – means the range of procedures and actions employed by a State, its competent authorities and agencies to ensure that organisations or persons, potentially failing to comply with environmental laws or regulations implementing MEAs, can be brought or returned into compliance and/or punished through civil, administrative or criminal action
140
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
Developing national campaigns to address specific MEAs
Provide research to relevant state actors
Training relevant stakeholders and decision makers
Taking part in expert groups related to MEA accords
141
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
Participating in consultations for the establishment of national implementation plans or strategies
Using international agreements a country is party to as leverage for domestic application of norms
Providing informed opinions regarding implementation of MEAs at the national level, articulating domestic limitations and priorities 142
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Roles of NGOs in implementation and compliance with MEAs
*** ENGAGEMENT *** *** ENGAGEMENT *** *** ENGAGEMENT *** 143
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs National Action Plans or National Strategies
Take stock of issues at the national level involving all relevant sectors
Express how a state will meet all its MEArelated requirements
Highlight the gaps in national policies or domestic situations
Generate consciousness and engender collaboration and information exchange
144
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Reporting, Monitoring and Verification MEA compliance requires the reporting of specific data MEA secretariats gather this information
Role of civil society Provide data when asked by national government Confirm or contradict ‘official data’
145
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Enforcement Utilising the legal system
Indian ‘shahtoosh’ case
Creating new norms of behaviour
Training and sensitisation
146
Implementation, Monitoring and Compliance of MEAs Practical Exercise Create a monitoring plan based on the Sierra Leone Environmental Protection Act Address
the concerns and criteria from slide 143
147
BREAK TIME Please be back in 10 minutes!
148
Module XII : Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects
Understanding timelines and at times priorities for funders vs NGOs
Creating relationships with funders
Submitting funding proposals
Specific potential funders 149
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Understanding timelines and conditions for funders Process can be slow!
DFID can take an average of ten months for approval
Stage 1 – Concept Note (~2-3 pages) Information on the organisation Information on the project A preliminary logical framework for the project
Stage 2 – Full Proposal (~10 pages)
150
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Tips on Fundraising
Pay attention to the specific requests or requirements
Is this the right funder or funders’ line
Does the funder provide funding up front or after you provide receipts
Are matching funds required
Have you calculated your budget in the right currency 151
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Tips on Fundraising
Pay attention to the specific requests or requirements
Is this the right funder or funders’ line
Does the funder provide funding up front or after you provide receipts
Are matching funds required
Have you calculated your budget in the right currency 152
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Potential Funders
National governments Regional and local governments UN agencies and other intergovernmental bodies The UN foundation The EU Foundations Lotteries Companies Other NGOs 153
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects National Governments Typically in the west
Look at the following Ministries Development Environment Foreign Affairs Trade and Development
154
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects UN Agencies and other intergovernmental bodies Global Environment Fund (World Bank) Development Banks EU FAO UNDP UNEP WHO World Bank 155
Obtaining Funding For MEA Related Projects Practical Exercise Complete the funding documentation for the World Bank, ‘Lighting Africa’ project This
will require the group to register ENFORAC as a member
http://lightingafrica.org/index.cfm? Page=dm 156
END OF DAY 3! 157
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