MOTION 3 | Subsidiarity in Regional Representation
⚑ SIMPLE MAJORITY

Motion Text

1. Subsidiarity in Regional Representation

The General Assembly asks the World Board to establish working procedures, that in detail describe the following:

1. While IFOAM – Organics International leads in global affairs, including multilateral and intergovernmental fora, global policy processes and international partnerships and events, in regions with a well-established and active Regional Body, the Regional Body shall lead in regional affairs, including:

o External representation,
o Political advocacy,
o Institutional relations

2. These working procedures will also describe roles in promotion of the brand in regional activities.

3. Where IFOAM – Organics International conducts regional advocacy or representation activities IFOAM – Organics International shall liaise with members or recognised Regional Bodies in the relevant region.

4. Where IFOAM – Organics International develops projects and initiatives or engages in global campaigns involving direct intervention in one or more regions, IFOAM – Organics International will liaise with recognised Regional Bodies, INOFO and relevant members in the regions regarding development, implementation and dedicated leadership for projects, avoiding competition and maximising synergies.

5. Regional Bodies recognise the leading role of IFOAM – Organics International in global affairs. Regional Bodies will liaise and align with IFOAM – Organics International on any initiative, events and campaign that will have a global impact.

Rationale

The principle of subsidiarity requires placing decision-making as close as possible to those impacted by decision making. Empowerment and value creation close to members is also important in building our movement.

In regions with a recognized and active Regional Body, that Regional Body is usually best placed to represent IFOAM at regional level. They possess knowledge of local political contexts, cultural realities and regional membership dynamics. IFOAM – Organics International may conduct regional advocacy or representation activities worldwide but in close coordination with, respect for and by agreement with recognised Regional Bodies. Recognized Regional Bodies that are still in development may request support from IFOAM – Organics International in carrying out such activities. Global contexts – such as multilateral and intergovernmental fora, global policy processes, initiatives and international partnerships – remain the responsibility of IFOAM – Organics International. Regional Bodies will only take activities in that field in coordination with IFOAM – Organics International.

2. Engagement and alignment with Thematic Groups

IFOAM – Organics International seeks alignment and active involvement of recognised thematic groups in the development of global positions, campaigns and initiatives relevant to their scope.

Rationale

Equally, recognised thematic groups will liaise and align with IFOAM – Organics International on any initiative, event or campaign that connects to their area of scope.