ANSA East Asia and the Pacific’s networking strategy
ANSA-EAP’s networking approach capitalizes on existing in-country networks working in governance reform. These country networks are collectively known as “conveners group” and are typically led by a coordinating organization.
Such a networking strategy makes use of the members’ shared information base and existing communication channel as drivers of the connection. The network members’ desire to unite around key issues enables the connection, but what accelerates and sustains the relationship is the trust in the network, which is ensured by a participatory operational approach.
ANSA-EAP also introduces a network assistance program to enhance the existing skills of the conveners group and its member organizations toward two objectives: first, the decentralization of regional networking roles, and second, the institutionalization and empowerment of the country coordination center.
This assistance is channeled to the conveners group primarily through the Network Fellow. The Network Fellow is integrated in the daily office operations of the coordinating organization and is directly accountable to the conveners group. The Fellow also serves as the bridge between the in-country network and the ANSA-EAP regional office in Manila, Philippines.
This networking arrangement is currently being tested in Cambodia, Indonesia, Mongolia, and the Philippines.
Operationalizing the Networking Strategy
– Mapping and identification of existing networks
– Mission to study entry strategy
– Feedback on and validation of feasibility of entry
– Formation of Conveners Group
– Assignment of coordinating group
– Hiring of Network Fellow
– Planning of country operations (scoping study, advocacy and monitoring, donors forum)
– Test implementation of plans
– Review and assessment
– Decision on feasibility of sustaining country operations
Updated: 16 March 2011