Membership

GCSF MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA

Introduction

The Ghana Civil Society Forum (GCSF) is an inclusive space and platform for CSOs in Ghana to deliberate and reflect on their work as facilitators of good governance and inclusive development, on their organizational sustainability and the health of the civic sector. 

This document defines the membership eligibility criteria, benefits, membership application process and fee structure. It provides a transparent overview of membership requirements and expectations. This is to ensure inclusivity and diversity of the GCSF.

Membership Overview

Ghana Civil Society Forum is a platform that seeks to connect civil society organizations in all their diversities, create spaces for networking, and collective action and strengthening the resilience, legitimacy and accountability of civil society organizations in Ghana.

Membership Benefits

Networking & Knowledge Exchange

Access to a professional community for networking, shared learning, training, and best practices.

Advocacy & Influence

A platform to amplify your voice, build collective action, and effectively influence policy and public discourse.

Organizational Growth & Resources

Opportunities to connect with donors, increase resources, gain legitimacy, and receive support for regulatory compliance.

Partnerships & Solidarity

Support to build strategic relationships and receive collective backing from members, especially in times of threat or challenge

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) or Community-Based Organization (CBO) registered in Ghana - as a company Limited By Guarantee (LBG), social welfare/Non-Profit Organization (NPO) registration, and/or District Assembly’s License to operate - and operating in the civil space.
  2. The organization may be international, national, regional, or community-based in scope and operations.
  3. The organizations must have a mission that aligns with the objectives and values of the Ghana Civil Society Forum.
  4. The organization must be operating in Ghana for at least 2 years prior to requesting to be a member of GCSF.
  5. The organization, its members, or legal representatives must not be linked to any criminal act under the laws of Ghana, including terrorism, money laundering, human trafficking, fraud, or corruption.

Application Requirements

  1. Organizations must complete an application form providing organizational information, mission, objectives, and activities.
  2. Copy of legal registration certificate or other relevant documents.
  3. Most recent annual report or similar document outlining organizational activities and achievements.
  4. A signed statement of commitment to the Ghana Civil Society Forum's objectives and values.
  5. Application forms are to be downloaded from the GCSF website, completed with all relevant documents and signatures and sent electronically to the secretariat with a processing fee of GHC100. Only Annual General Meeting (AGM) can change membership fees.

Membership Approval Process

  1. Applications will be reviewed by the Ghana Civil Society Forum's secretariat or coordinating committee.
  2. Membership applications will be approved or rejected based on an assessment of whether it meets the eligibility criteria and application requirements.
  3. Feedback on the approval or rejection of the application will be given within a month of submitting the application.

Membership Fees

There will be an annual membership renewal fee. Members not in good standing (non-payment of dues) will pay the full cost of conferences and associated opportunities. Only paid-up members will participate in the Annual General Meeting of the Forum.

The fee structure is detailed as follows

 

  • International organization (organizations either registered in Ghana or not, but working in more than one country or an affiliate to another organization in different countries) – GHC 4,000
  • National organizations (Organizations working in more than one region or as defined by Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) – GHC 1,000
  • Membership or Network NGOs (Coalitions, networks and alliances either working at sub-national or national level) GHC2,000
  • Regional focused NGO (NGOs working in more than one district in the same region) – GHC 500
  • Community/District Based Organizations (organizations working in one district) GHC 300

Honorary Membership

A private sector entity, quasi state institutions, an academic institution, or an individual intending to be a friend to civil society organizations shall require to pay an annual membership fee of GHC 5,000. Members in this category who are in good standing can attend AGM and have full benefits of a member except for voting rights.

Code of Conduct

  1. Ethical Standards: Members are expected to uphold high ethical standards, including transparency, accountability, and integrity.
  2. Respect and Inclusivity: Members are expected to promote respect, inclusivity, and diversity in their interactions with other members and stakeholders.

Our Partners