NGO Networking
Chapter Thirteen NGO Networking—How Can I Get Involved in NGO Networking Efforts?
1. THE GEF-NGO NETWORK
NGOs have organised themselves into an experimental network of regional NGO contact points on the GEF—the GEF-NGO network. Established in 1995, its primary purposes are to:
• facilitate selection of recipients of travel grants to GEF Council meetings;
• gather NGO input into the GEF process, including its Council meetings; and
• disseminate information on the Council meetings, major GEF developments and GEF projects.
Currently the GEF-NGO network is structured around 13 contact points in five regions (Africa/Middle East, Asia, Latin America/Caribbean, Europe and North America) and a central contact point (currently based at IUCN's Washington, DC, office). Contact information for the NGO focal points and other NGOs active in the GEF are listed in Annex III.
Central contact point. The role of the central contact point is to:
• liaise regularly with the regional contact points and the GEF Secretariat on issues relating to NGO participation in the GEF;
• gather NGO input into GEF policy documents;
• coordinate NGO activities around Council meetings; and
• coordinate selection of travel grant recipients through the regional contact points. (See Chapter 11)
Regional contact points. The main tasks of the regional contact points are to:
• provide notification of GEF-NGO Consultations and GEF Council meetings, and distribute relevant documents to NGOs in their region;
• coordinate selection of regional travel grant recipients and notify the central contact point of the recipients;
• liaise with the central contact point;
• collect, coordinate and provide brief reports on regional concerns, GEF projects, etc., relevant to upcoming GEF meetings; and
• report back to NGOs in their region on each GEF Council meeting and on current policy and project issues.
To join the GEF-NGO network, contact the regional contact point in your area of the world. (See Annex III)