Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Partners
The EADPD project is financed by the European Union and co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Corporation, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
Africa - Europe PlatformPlateforme AFRIQUE - EUROPE
Report of the first e-Consultation 2012 of the EADPD ProjectDr. Erick Gankam Tambo
“The Platform Framing Process and the Elaboration of the Rules of Engagement”
Table of Content
1. Introduction1.1 Context of the e-Consultation
1.2 Goals of the e-Consultation
2. Method 42.1 Design of the questionnaire
2.2 Respondants
2.3 Processing of the survey
3. Presentation of Results 3.1 Participation
3.2 Results
3.2.1 Main activities
3.2.2 Future prospects and needs
3.2.3 Relevance of the themes covered by the platform
3.2.4 Geographical criteria for the selection of the five pilot countries in Africa
3.2.5 Relationships with institutions and organizations in the host country (in Europe)
3.2.6 Criteria and procedures for the implementation of the Africa – Europe Platform
3.2.7 Objectives of the Africa-Europe Platform
3.2.8 Procedures and working methods
3.2.9 Membership Charter (rights and obligations of members of the platform)
3.2.10 Code of conduct
3.2.11 Assets (advantages and strengths) of the Africa-Europe platform and contact information
3.2.12 Information about the next steps of the project
4. Summary of Results
02
03
03
04
04
04
05
05
05
05
06
06
11
15
16
19
23
25
30
31
33
34
34
30
1.1 Context of the first e-Consultation The first e-Consultation presented in this report re-present a step within the scope of the EADPD project. The European-wide African Diaspora Platform for Development (EADPD) project was initiated to create a strong and viable network to promote the contri-bution of the African Diaspora to the development of Africa in a systematic and sustainable manner. The platform should facilitate the contact between diffe-rent actors and associations of the African diaspora, promote mutual exchange of information between these actors, support the sharing of best practice and experiences, assist these actors and associations for the realization of joint projects, initiatives and ac-tions, strengthen links with the aim of building stra-tegic alliances and better defend common causes.
The project will last three years and is funded by the European Commission and co-funded by the swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) , the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the “Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit” (GIZ). The project is implemented by five Consortium partners, namely, the African Diaspora Policy Centre (ADPC) in the Netherlands, the African Foundation for Development (AFFORD) in the UK, the “Forum des Organisations de Solidarité Internationale issues des Migrations” (FORIM) in France, the General Coordina-tion of Migrants for Development (CGMD) in Belgium and the International Centre for Migration Policy De-velopment (ICMPD).
The different African diaspora members of the net-work are at the heart of the process of implemen-tation of the platform. According to a participatory framework, they define the rules of engagement in the network. The platform will meet the needs and problems identified and defined in advance by the members, allowing for individual identification and ownership of the process of implementation of the platform. The consortium responsible for the imple-mentation of the project accompanies the actors in the implementation of the platform and facilitates the process.
The results of the project are expected to:
• Facilitate a process which will enable African Di-aspora organizations in Europe to establish vi-able contacts, learn from each other’s develop-ment related activities and exchange valuable information, share best practices and positive experiences
• Foster African Diaspora organizations in Europe to initiate feasible cooperation and act jointly on certain development issues and activities such as lobbying, campaigning and advocacy for policies and practices that enhance the in-volvement of diasporas in development coope-ration relations
• Facilitate Diaspora leadership building as Co-development actors within the development cooperation framework
• Promote effective networks among African dia-spora organisations and associations in Europe which would enable them to enter into strate-gic alliances and initiate joint development pro-jects across countries, and thereby contributing more towards poverty reduction and the achie-vement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in their respective homelands in Africa
1.2 Goals of the e-ConsultationOne of the main objectives of the e-Consultation is to build a tool for the collection of views and opinions on the draft „Rules of Engagement“, and the initial list of possible thematic and geographic areas desi-gned in a previous phase of the project. Furtherure-more, the e-Consultation aims to:
• disseminate the draft of the „Rules of Engage-ment“ and the initial list of possible thematic and geographic areas
1. Introduction
03
• to improve the „Rrules of Eengagement“ with the project partners on the basis of opinion of all stakeholders respectively participants in the online consultation.
The feedback and comments collected through the online consultation will help to adapt the Africa –Europe platform and to use the Platform to provide support according to the needs formulated by Dias-pora/migrants organisations.
The results of the online consultation presented in this report will serve as a basis for discussions during the first African Ddiaspora Eexpert Mmeeting whe-re the Rrules of Eengagement as well as, the list of thematic and the geographic area clusters will be reviewed, discussed and adopted.
2.1 Design of the questionnaire The design of the questionnaire aims firstly to valida-te the work already done by the team of the EADPD and to collect feedback and new inputs of from the associations. Questions with a limited range of answer as well as closed questions were formulated to give the association the possibilities to evaluate the previous steps of the process. Open questions were posed to collect proposition for improvement as well as feedback and comments on steps taken.Survey were grouped into the following categories: 1. Main activities of the associations2. Future prospects and needs3. Themes covered by the platform4. Geographical criteria for the selection of the five
pilot countries in Africa5. Relationships with institutions and organiza-
tions in the host country (in Europe)6. Criteria and procedures for the implementation
of the Africa – Europe Platform7. Objectives of the Africa-Europe Platform8. Procedures and working methods9. Membership Charter10. Code of conduct11. Assets of the Africa-Europe platform and
contact information
The question 3, 4, 6, 7, 8,9,10 constitute focal points of the survey. A preliminary work has already been accomplished and the closed questions of the survey serve to evaluate this work while the open questi-ons collect feedback, comments and proposition for improvement. Question 6-10 are summarized in the previous step under the category “Rules of Engage-ment”. The questionnaire consisted of a total of 37 questions and the questionnaire was supposed to be filled in within 30 minutes. The survey was ano-nymous,; but participants also had the possibility to leave their contact data. The e-Consultation process was conducted in English and French.
2.2 RespondantsThe population of the survey can be classified into the following categories: 1- African actors: African diaspora organisations, Af-rican Diaspora company, African expert etc..2- African Diaspora co-development network: Non governmental co-development institutions, Co-development network, Co-development expert / consultant, etc...The survey was circulated to actors which had been previously identified in a mapping exercise. A total of 517 actors from the following countries had been identified.
04
2. Method
05
517 actors in the following countries were identified:
• France: 227 actors• UK: 140 actors• Germany: 56 actors• The Netherlands: 44 actors• Sweden: 10 actors• Finland 9 actors• Spain: 9 actors• Italy: 5 actors• Denmark: 4 actors• Portugal: 4 actors• Switzerland: 3 actors • Austria: 2 actors• Cyprus: 1 actors• Poland: 1 Actors• Latvia: 1 actors
Further invitations were forwarded by the respon-sible of the EADPD project on a personal basis (Bel-gium, Luxembourg) and the request to forward the invitation to other African migrants and actors invol-ved in actions of co-development was stipulated in the invitation.
2.3 Processing of the surveyThe period given to the recipients to fill in the survey lasted 15 days. An invitation has been sent to the stakeholders enumerated in subsection 2.2 to start the process and 5 days before closing the survey a reminder mail has been sent to the participants. Be-side the general reminders to the participants, a per-sonalized invitation has been sent to the 35 actors supposed to be present at the 1st African Diaspora Expert Meeting from 05 -07 March in Frankfurt.
3.1 Participation• 517 Invitations have been sent; a gap of 75 non-
replies occurred due to mail failure. Total sums of 442 were reached
• 78 actors participated in the survey with 51 form fully and 25 partially completed questi-ons which amounts to a participation quote of 17,6%.
• The majority of the replies were received from francophone participants (cp. fig 01)
3. Presentation of Results
Fig. 01: Language used to fill in the questionnaire
3.2 ResultsThe presentation of results of the question-naire follows the following schema:
Category•Titleofthecategory:• Graphic representation for closed questions:
The plot presented on the x axis variable (state-ment, proposition, etc…) to be evaluated. Each variable is evaluated individually based on the grade presented on the legend (right - top).The length of the variable represents the proporti-on, evaluating this variable
• Interpretation of the graphic: General state-ment, outlier and striking variable are presen-ted within the scope of the project.
• Transcript of answers for open questions: Feed-back of participants were transcribed and trans-lated before if necessary.
3.2.1 Main activities
3.2.1.1 Graphic representation of activities undertaken in Africa
Interpretation of the graphic (Fig. 02)The graph shows that all activities are dealt with by all organization. However, there is a slight majority identifiable for the activities Rural Community Deve-lopment (3), education (1) and health (2) which are not undertaken by about two to 5% of the sample. Besides, the most frequent activities are education (1), health (2) and lobbying, advocacy, partnerships (11) with about 25%.
Other activities undertake in Africa
• Agriculture - support to rural farmers, Cooperative organic farm
• Sustainable development• Renewable energy
06
Fig. 02: Activities undertaken in Africa
Legend: Activities undertaken in Africa
1. Education2. Health 3. Rural/Community Development4. Water5. Education - Training - Capacity Building6. Democratisation - Human Rights- Politics7. Infrastructure and Construction8. Intrepreneurship - Trade (business) –
Investment –Finance and Microfinance9. Art and Culture
10. Environment and Energy11. Women’s Rights - Gender12. Lobbying, Advocacy, Partnerships
• Umbrella organization offering training, advice and capacity building to its member organizations;
• Information and publishing activities in Finland• Social inclusion, integration, fight against
racism, migration, aid effectiveness and environment, climate change and sustainable development
• Economie Sociale et Solidaire, Populaire et informelle.
• Informal, social, solidary economy • Sports and cultural inclusive projects• Antirassism• Rural tourisme • Entrepreneurship, advanced training• business consulting• Research and project development
3.2.1.2 Graphic representation of partners in Africa
Interpretation of the graphicThe graph illustrates that indirect partnerships are rather rare on the local level for all types of activities. Yet, frequent partnerships are held with beneficiari-es of the services. However, activity “local NGOs” (6) has a high amount of direct partnerships with about 30% in contrast to activity “local government” (9) which only has about 3% of local direct partnership.
07
Fig. 03: Partners in Africa
Legend: Partners in Africa
1. Friends & Family2. Populations rurales 3. Urban Population4. Women and Girls5. Poor/Indigent6. Local NGOs7. Diseased People8. Elderly9. Local Government
10. Business11. Schools12. Hospitals
Other Partners in Africa
• INGOs active in Somalia, • women‘s groups• local communities at large• FAFRAD-Mali, Sénégal, Central Africa• Local government,• local NGOs, • EU NGOs,• universities, • schools, • agencies journalists and civil liberties• Bank and institution of finance • Traditional fighter • artist • Elected representative• Chiefs• Association in village • Association for tourism • United nation Agency and other development
cooperation agency
3.2.1.3 Graphic representation of financial means to run projects/activities in Africa
Interpretation of the graphic (Fig. 04)Generally all associations mix multiple sources of funding. Mostly organizations depend on their “own financial means” (1); 70% depend on financial aids from faith based organizations. Only few organiza-tions receive funding from the European Union as it is the rarest sponsor; the funding amount between 10% and 30%.
Other financial means
• Advertisements• membership fees• Donation• Subventions of Co-Development actors • Providing Services
08
Legend: Financial means to run projects/activities in Africa
1. Own Financial means2. Profit from the sale of goods or products3. Profit from the organization of events4. Donations from individuals (other than
family members)5. Donations from familiy members6. Corporate donations7. Donations from NGOs8. Donations from churches9. Grants from local authorities10. Grants of a region (community, province,
county)11. Subsidies from the national government12. Subsidies from the European Union13. Other
Fig. 04: Financial means to run projects/activities in Africa
09
3.2.2 Future prospects and needs
3.2.2.1 Graphic representation of needs toenhance the work
Interpretation of the graphicWith about 80% financial support constitute a necessary need to enhance their work. With equal relevance organization mentioned technical and practical assistance, training, goods and material.
List of other Needs
• European networking in order to better access European funding;
• financial support is needed for the basic activi-ties of the organizations - at the moment the activities are mainly based on voluntary work
• Technical support • Networking , Partnership, lobbying,• Organisational and institutional support
• Concep to better use accorded subvention • Reciprocité de la confance.• Logistics • Creation of mechanisms to support the mobi-
lity/transfer of skills and technical knowledge of the diaspora to their countries of origin: Strengthening the TOKTEN program and Inter-Pares etc.
• Donation• Subventions of Co-Development actors • Providing Services
Legend: Needs to enhance the work
1. Technical Assistance2. Financial Support3. Training4. Goods and Materials5. Practical Assistance6. Volunteers7. Other needs
Fig. 05: Needs to enhance the work
Priority 1• Administration /Management * 10• fundraising* 7• Project, writing développement and
mangement * 5• People who are computer literate * 2• Leadership training* 2• Young and Vocational training * 2• volunteer recruitment and management• Planning• Networking• Advocacy training• strengthening diaspora dialogue on
policies of EU on Africa• Negotiations• Training of beneficiaries• Translation • la larté• Aid Policy development• carpentry• Research of partners • Installing water• Agricultures technique• In the field of operations• Training of young people • Science • Animation of School homework • Investment• Governance • Literacy
Priority 2• Administration, Accounting, manage-
ment* 5 • ICT *3• Project writing, development and
management * 4 • Lobbying * 2• Presenting projects• Acquiring and maintaining Volunteers• International partnership• capacity building• fundraising • Juridical assistance• Building• Networking• Advocacy• developing advocacy papers• Supervision• Financial Literacy• Access to media• Leadership• People good in field work• Trust• Renewable energy• Rural development • electrical• Waste recovery• special skills• training of rural people • Awareness in public health • local development• capacity building• Co-development• Women with low incomes• Young women, health and pregnancy • strategic development • Human resources• Functional Education
Priority 3• Project writing, development
and management * 2• Fundraising . * 2• Cooperation * 2• Advocacy * 2• Lobbying* 2• Communication skills• Energy and environment• associative governance• aid effectiveness and capital flight
and corruption• Technical skills• Group dynamic• Respect to women• building construction• education and environment • gender empower and Democracy• international développement • technique for building and construction• Management of community projects• Institutional support• special knowledge• training of environment agent• Procurement• Training of trainers• Working with risk population• Public relation and media • Entrepreneurship• agriculture and transformation
of product• Rural Development • monitoring skills• Advanced training
10
3.2.2.2 List of types of training needed to enhance the work of actors
11
Priority 1• IT equipment/skills * 14• Meeting room * 4• Office equipment * 4• Agriculture equipment * 3• Hospital equipment * 2• Building equipment * 2• Beamers• medications• Vehicle for mobility *2• Information• An African and EU wide so called Aid
donation and recipient states vis-a-vis aid effectiveness
• Communication -Internet• Equipment’s for vocational schools
(carpentry, mechanic, etc.)• Information• school banc • emergency power unit• Scientific materials• printing material• Cell phone
Priority 2• IT equipment * 9• Educational material and books for
schools * 4• Mobility: car/motorbike * 4• transformation of products* 4• Office equipment * 4• Office equipment * 3• Agriculture equipment *2• Equipment for building* 2• Diagnostic equipment• medications• Hospital bed• Scanner• cameras• topography• Partnership• Training materials• Sport équipements
(bals, goals, coupes etc.)• Wind• multimedia • Meeting room
Priority 3• IT equipment/skills * 3• Meeting room* 2• Books * 2• telephone * 2• Agro - Industry * 2• Construction * 2• Equipment for water supply * 3• camera and video• diagnostic material• Medicaments• emergency power unit• Logistics• Administration software • Materials for distance Learning • Solar cookers • equipment• Equipment for carpentry• Containers for transport• stationery• Banners• Transfer of knowhow• bus
3.2.2.4 List of types of training needed to enhance the work of actors
• Financial assistance * 13• Administration, Accounting,
management * 7• Partnership * 4• Technical Assistance * 2• Skilled personal * 2• Volunteers * 2• Agriculture, agro-forestry skills * 2• Mapping diaspora and strengthening
dialogue * 2• Project writing, development
and management *2• volunteer management• organising fundraising events• direct help• Training to use technical équipements • Warehouse
• information• tourism• technical Capacity building for the
realisation of project in area of water • Local assistance• Accompanying diaspora organisation
in Spain • Schools• Equipment for blind people• Financial assistance * 7• office equipment * 4• Training * 3• Volunteers * 2• Administration, Accounting,
management * 2• networking in EU and Africa * 2• Human resources * 2
• Partnership * 2• Technical assistance• Information• Supervision• Support for agriculture• Transport of Equipment to Africa • Guide to understand the interaction
between political and civil society• creating awareness• Policies• Building schools• Capacity building in waste-recycling • Guides for project implementation• Documentation related to
public administration • expertise • Webmaster
3.2.2.3 List of types of training needed to enhance the work of actors
12
• Goods & Products• Rural Area• strategic development• office equipment * 6• Volunteers * 3• Search for technical partners * 3• Web master * 3• Partnership * 2• Administration, Accounting,
management * 2
• Development of project * 2• Institutional and communal * 2• fundraising• Juridical assistance• advocacy (collectively)• Pedagogical assistance• Equivalence of skills gained abroad• Logistics for the transport of gift/donation• lobbying
• animation des stages de formation• support for yearly report• Motilities facilities • music band• trainings seminar• goods
3.2.3 Relevance of the themes coveredby the platform
3.2.3.1 Graphic representation of therelevance of topics covered by the platform
Interpretation of the graphicIn general all organizations agree with all listed the-mes and regard them as equally important. However microfinance and remittances (2), Diaspora educa-
tion and training (3) and water supply (11) consti-tute topics valued as less important from a minority of about 8-10%. The organizations strongly agree with ca. 75% that (7) lobbying, campaigning, dias-pora advocacy, building strategic are topics of high relevance. Also with ca. 70-75% they strongly agree that (8) networking, collaboration with other associ-ations of the African Diaspora
Legend: Relevance of topic covered by the platform
1. Community and Rural Development2. Micro-finance & Remittances3. Diaspora Education and Training4. Health & Disability5. Diaspora Entrepreneurship: Business,
Investment & Trade6. Democracy & Peace, Diaspora and
Constituency Building in Europe 7. Lobbying, Campaigning & Diaspora
Advocacy, Building Strategic8. Networking, Collaboration with other
association of the African Diaspora9. Diaspora and Media10. Brain Drain - Migration/Inclusion11. Water Supply
Fig. 06: Relevance of topic covered by the platform
13
Other relevant topics proposed by the participants
• Self-support within the diaspora community • integration• Renewable energy.• Security • Nutrition and Food balance • Establishment of a structure for
financial assistance • Debate and aid effectiveness, accountability
and transparency• Entrepreneurship in local, social and solidary
economy in Africa • Improvement of potential of actors from
the diaspora • Arts music, culture and fashion• voluntary return • Pan- Africanism • Support and Improvment of research
institutes in Africa
3.2.4 Geographical criteria for the selection of the five pilot countries in Africa
3.2.4.1 Graphic representation of selected countries in the respective region
Interpretation of the graphicIn General the sample agrees on the choice of coun-tries in the respective regions. No organization ob-jects the selection of the countries Senegal and Ca-meroon. The graph illustrates that more than 50% agree on Cameroon as selected country to represent Central Africa on the platform. Less than 2% object the selection of the other countries.
Legend: Selected countries in the respective region
1. Morocco2. Senegal3. Ethiopia 4. Cameroon5. Angola
Fig. 07: Selected countries in the respective region
14
3.2.4.2 Graphic representation of the criteria for the selection of countries
Interpretation of the graphicIn general the criteria for the selection were not strongly supported by the organization. The organi-zations show an uncertainty with the choice of the country Morocco (50%). Also, 25% do not agree with the choice of the country Ethiopia. Ca. 60% approve the criteria for the selection of the country Angola.
General feedback on the selected countries and on the selection criterion
Answers indicating lack of information• Why the Congo is not on the list?• I don’t understand the question above as our
work is in Kenya and therefore I could only answer issues relating to my locality and expertise
• I don’t have enough information to make a judgment.
• I can’t answer this question because I never at-tend these kinds of conferences.
• The knowledge I have about the co-deve-lopment work done by these countries is not enough for me to give a correct answer.
Answers indicating categorization of countries according to certain criteria• Morocco - tend to agree, the fact that many di-
aspora from this country are in Europe can be positive to get and mobilise human resources, I disagree because it is not a democratic and an African oriented states (if one considers how boarder externalisation is handled, or the dif-ficulties it has in terms of the problem of wes-tern Sahara demand as well as the fact that
Legend :Criteria for the selection of coun-tries
1. Morocco2. Ethiopia3. Angola
Fig. 08: Criteria for the selection of countries
15
Morocco is more a French backyard and not amember of the African Union (AU)- It could bebetter Algeria or else. Cameroon - might bechallenged by Nigeria and Ghana- Ethiopia - canbe good as it opens to integrate the AU strate-gies and views as well as the region is not pre-dictable gives more challenges Angola can be oksince it is g growing star. Do we need to onecountry more or can Angola represent the SADCrepresentative from the Anglophone?
• Probably there are good reasons why these countries have been selected. Our umbrella organization focuses on Somalia and looks for collaboration particularly in that area.
• Pay attention to the notion of experience, each country may have some experience. Maybe it‘s better to speak about countries with a large di-aspora in Europe or not, countries with a well-organized diaspora or not, countries with good policies to the contribution of the diaspora such as Morocco and countries with no favourable policy the diaspora.
• You have to start somewhere. Countries consi-dered seem relevant.
• I support the selection of Cameroon because a few development actions are undertaken in Central Africa.
• They represent a general overview of the coun-tries in African to start with.
• A post-conflict country such as countries in Central Africa (DR Congo, Rwanda and Burundi) should be on the panel during the pilot phase.
• Countries with a high economic potential and human resources.
• Ethiopia is a country that is in need. The high rate of food poverty, problems related to clima-te and political context, etc. ... are criteria that determine my choice. Angola‘s coming through very difficult times, because of wars, which are factors of destruction and which are not favou-rable to their development.
• I think the selection criteria should be made on the basis of democratic progress to encourage the migrant in Europe to make more pressure on their governments
• The selection of pilot countries makes sense because most of them have migrants in Euro-pe and America. Therefore, they have a high diaspora that must be organized so that Africa benefits from the cash flows they generate, but also the transfer of their scientific and technolo-gical knowledge.
Answers claiming for interventional measures• The selected countries are not important be-
cause the most important things are the poli-cies that we try to establish as standard.
• What is the goal of the platform? Are we in the process of capitalization of experiences or is it a new experience that begins here? I feel that we want to break down open doors. Those who have little experience of cooperation are aware that most efforts are to achieve in countries that are always cited as priorities in terms of coope-ration (case of French cooperation in Gabon, Congo Brazzaville,) but where the mechanisms of implementation of real cooperation are still very low. Strengthening the diaspora and all related stakeholders in the host countries are priority or at least necessary. In 10 years of ob-servation of experiment or project related to co-operation or decentralization between Europe and African countries, morocco for example is still present (which may indicate that this dias-pora is dynamic). But should we be satisfied and limited our action to the reproduction of action in the same countries without look elsewhere?
The countries of Southern Africa and CentralAfrica should now benefit from a capitalizationof experiences in North Africa (Morocco), WestAfrica (Senegal) and East Africa (Kenya, Ethio-pia, ...) in the areas of local development,the involvement of diasporas, ...
3.2.5 Relationships with institutions and orga-nizations in the host country (in Europe)
3.2.5.1 Graphic representation of the partners in the host country in Europe.
Interpretation of the graphicThe most frequent partners in Europe for organiza-tions are (H) migrant organizations and networks (50%), (M) individuals (45%) and NGOs (30%). Only few have (C) federal administrations as partners. 20% of the organizations mentioned that they never cooperate with (C) federal administrations, churches and trade unions.
List of other actor(s), organization (s):
• sporadic sponsors• Ministries are major donors• the government MoF, Min of
Education and culture• Bank and Institutions of finances (mostly ) • Political parties (often) • associations• Government institutions and Ministries• International Institutions
16
Legend: Partners in the host country in Europe. A: Municipal AdministrationB: Regional AdministrationC: Federal AdministrationD: NGOsE: FoundationsF: Businesses or Business AssociationsG: Professionals (e.g. doctors, lawyers ...)H: Migrant Organisations and Networks I: sports clubsJ: Youth MovementsK: HospitalsL: Schools, UniversitiesM: IndividualsN: ChurchesO: Cultural institutions (theater groups, music...)P:Trade unions
Fig. 09: Partners in the host country in Europe
17
3.2.5.2 Graphic representation of the collabo-ration with other organizations of the African diaspora in Europe
Interpretation of the graphicAbout 70% of the organizations regard the collabo-ration with other organizations of the African dias-pora as highly important, while less than 2% regard it less important
3.2.5.3 With how many associations do you work together? • Only one participant does not work with other
associations. • 13 participants work with 1 to 4 associations• Most participants (11) work on an average with
five associations • 10 participants work with 6 to 15 Associations • 4 Participants work with 15 to 20 associations • 4 Participants work with 25 to 30 associations• 2 Participants work with 40 associations • 1 Participant work with more than
40 associations
3.2.5.4 Graphic representation of the communication and collaboration tools
Other communication and collaboration tools • Events *3• Through print and audio media and social
media as well as by direct invitation by post• Postal mail *3• Fax * 3• Intranet
Fig. 10:Collaboration with other organization
of the African diaspora in Europe
Fig. 11:communication and collaboration tools
Fig. 12:General opinion on the collaboration with other organization of the African diaspora
18
3.2.5.5 Graphic representation on the general opinion on the collaboration with other organization of the African diaspora
Interpretation of the graphic
Almost all organizations regard the collaboration with partners positively.
General comments on the relationship with other organization of the African diaspora
No Collaboration• so far none
Reflecting positive Experiences• Very positive collaboration • The African diaspora organizations in Europe
are very open to collaborations with their coun-terparts in other European countries even the-re are many difficulties to be organized at the same European country.
• The Migrant Project STEP „Tools for Supporting Economic Migrants Projects“ funded by the joint UN-EC ICMD and managed in partnership with the CGMD in Belgium, has considerably
• increased our experience and useful results.• From my experience all involved parties benefit
from the each other and experience are shared.• Positive but not conceal the difficulties due to
the financial precarities within the members and selfishness resulting from this fact. The platform can be used to convey a message: Uni-ty is the basis for collective strength and enhan-cement of individuality.
• Very necessary. Because it‘ll bring development and business activities.
• Enriching from the point of view of skills transfer.
• Communication is more or less positive. Positi-ve to accord position and decision and negative and negative since individual project cannot be improved.
Negative Experiences• Better to say positive, otherwise it turns some-
times disappointment and lack of capacity and the in ability /knowledge, skill and good will/ of being a learning NGO and being the victim of the syndrome of *Chief* and lack of accounta-bility, failed to mobilise its members that comes out of a greater vision of a common purpose, become the victim or servitude of every day po-litics from EU or their respective country.
• Less positive
Other Experiences• PEAC • Consist on about ten European organizations
present in Belgium, France, Portugal, Nether-lands, England, Italy, and Spain.
• We have to be persistent.• On my own territory Loire it‘s still complicated.
Africans are divided. It is extremely difficult to build together and to bring black together around the topic of politics in order to build a lobby. We will profit the day that our leaders and ourselves would want to sit at the negot-iating table.
• Tiring but not bad experiences in the end.• It’s often difficult because most actors do not
have enough infrastructure and financial me-ans, qualified personal are missing and
• Positive experience when the cooperation is financially supported and disinterested: complementarity must be given.
• But still shy• There is still a long way to run but it benefits
every partners.• We have collaborated for the development of
this project.• Collaboration is not always positive, from the
time when these organizations are not putting their energies together to succeed in their projects.
• We work for years with networks of diaspora associations
3.2.6 Criteria and procedures for the imple-mentation of the Africa – Europe Platform
3.2.6.1 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the global rules of the EADPD *
19
Fig. 13:Feedback on the global rules of the EADPD
Legend: Global Rules of the EADPD
1. Equality of all members2. Democratic behaviour outside
and inside3. Rejection and condemnation of all forms of
discrimination of any individuals and groups
4. Freedom of expression as far as it does not violate state constitutions, human rights and the ethical and moral values
Interpretation of the graphicBasically all criteria are regarded as important. In details the organizations strongly agree on crite-ria (85%) of the platform which is (1) the equality of all members. However they somewhat agree on (2) democratic behaviour outside and inside and (4) freedom of expression are regarded as criteria for procedures of implementation of the platform. With about 85% they agree on the criteria rejection and condemnation of all forms of discriminations of any individuals and groups.
Comments“The Africa-Europe platform is an excellent way to organize and structure the African Diaspora based in Europe. As a facilitator of economic and techno-logical initiatives of this diaspora to their country of origin, I am really appreciated this way of encoura-ging Africans diaspora and provide a frame for the sustainable development of the continent.”
Answers claiming equal rights • It should perhaps consider the weight of the
members. An organization with two individu-als/members cannot have the same weight that an organization composed of thousands of people? Which means a difference between organization of individuals and group organiza-tion or even a federation of organizations must be made.
• It is good to have equality as a norm of the plat-form, but also should anticipate the problems that bring with. While I belong to those who advocate democracy, the platform cannot be an area of sabotage and dispute solving, ac-tion matters. Since some of NGOs are based on ethnicity, religion or organised by ruling elites it can turn to be a space of disputes, the know-ledge gap between NGOs and capacity is also be another problem etc.
• Freedom to be active on the platform.• Partnership on equal basis.• We are all Diaspora Organizations in Euro-
pe, we have the same objectives we have the same problems even the same difficulties in our
country, but we may have different cultures. We must be equal, democracy must be accepted by all, freedom of expression in order to build and not destroy we must have respect, considerati-on of one and other because we all struggle for the same reasons we must have and respect the culture of each.
Answers trying to structure the participation ac-cording to categories• We must think on categorizing actors, defining
a model for the representation of members for African and European countries, give the prio-rity to politic neutral organization active in the field
• Criteria and procedures are essential for the suc-cess of a collaborative work.
Reflecting mistakes from the past …• The leaders of the platform must avoid mistakes
made in the past for an effective and legitimate platform they have to travel throughout the re-gion in their respective jurisdiction to introduce the platform to each and every African and to raise their awareness about the benefits of such an initiative in order to have their commitment.
• We must ensure that organizations are serious and able to fulfil their obligation within the platform. Experiences showed that some orga-nizations are not really able to keep their word.
Reflecting Code of Conduct• Respect for the competence and expertise of
others because we are not equal throughout our curriculum. The definition of clear rules to identifies the „the best or what she or he Best Ever” The platform must be the place for faci-litating collaboration and not a place of favo-uritism or blackmail using the weak-minded because of asymmetric information or the sub-jective selection that can be installed by those who will have the responsibility of coordinating this structure.
20
21
• A framework for effective participation for all should apply.
• We are in line with all criteria and procedures.• Respect for fundamental Human Rights and
implementation of the platform on the basis of mutual understanding and generally agreed principles. Criteria are often discriminating par-ticularly when own fund must equivalent to the required grant, the own fund prevent to apply for European funds.
3.2.7 Objectives of the Africa-Europe Platform
3.2.7.1 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the objective 1: Promoting the contribution of the African Diaspora as a development actor by improving: *
Interpretation of the graphicThe graph shows that there is strong agreement (ca. 70%) on the aspect (1) coordination of initiatives and member organization as a development actor for the African diaspora. The organizations agree equally (ca. 89%) on the aspects (3) participation and co-operation among African migrant organizations as well as on (4) the visibility of African migrant organi-zation of migrants websites etc. Further agreement is on (2) communication between members (70%).
3.2.7.2 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the objective 2: Enhancing capacities of African Diaspora organizations and experts by
Interpretation of the graphicThe organizations strongly agree on (1) workshops, training and seminars to enhance the capacity of Af-rican diaspora organizations (75%). There is almost equal agreement on (2) facilitating the building of strategic partnerships as well as (3) providing a pool of best practice to all network members (75%).
Fig. 15:Enhancing capacities of African Diaspora organizations
Fig. 14:Promoting the contribution of the African Diaspora as a development actor
Legend: Promoting the contribu-tion of the African Diaspora as a development actor by improving 1. coordination of initiatives and
member organizations2. communication between members
3. participation and cooperation among African migrant organi-zations working on development issues in Africa
4. the visibility of African migrant or-ganizations of migrants (website, database, newsletter)
Legend: Enhancing capacities of African Diaspora organizations:
1. Performing workshops, training and seminars
2. Facilitating the building of strategic part-nerships
3. Providing a pool of best practice to all network members and by encouraging the exchange of experiences on specific issues
3.2.7.3 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the objective 3: Improving the networking of African migrant organizations working on development issues by: *
Interpretation of the graphicThe organizations agree that performing confe-rences and meetings (1) and developing network methods and tools (2) can improve the networking of African migrant organizations (70%). They so-mewhat agree on providing profiles on component African migrant organizations (3) and conducting research on African diaspora co-development (70%) in order to improve the networking.
23
Legend: Improving the networking of African migrant organizations working on development
1. Performing conferences and meetings2. Developing network methods and tools
(twinning, virtual networks, etc.).3. Providing profiles of competent African
migrant organizations to development insti-tutions and development organizations
4. Conducting research on African diaspora co-development organizations as co-deve-lopment actors
Fig. 16: Improving the networking of African migrant organizations working on development:
Comments related to the objective of the platform General Effects• It’s important to capitalize existing experiences
and competences.• It is worth trying.• Visibility of the diaspora.• They represent for me the main objectives.
Reflecting the Objectives of the platform• Such a platform allows to speak with one voice
and to build common positions, to implement support mechanisms to promote the contribu-tion of the diaspora to the development of the Africa. These elements are missing in your pro-position.
• Providing profiles of competent African mig-rant organizations to development institutions and development organizations 2. Conducting research on African diaspora co-development organizations as co-development actors.
• Goals of the platforms as presented in this form seem relevant. However, we suggest at the ob-jective (1) on the one hand, to help to create mechanisms to coordinate efforts and actions in countries of origin and secondly, to encoura-ge the direct involvement of the population and local authorities by encouraging and designing frame for the signing of partnership agree-ments between the organization of migrants and Community Based Organizations and local authorities of country of origin, working on sus-tainable local development.
• Conference and meeting keep us informed and improve our capacities. The network should fa-cilitate our work and must be secure.
• Excellent objective, relevant and can be very effective for the development of projects and their sustainability ,very good for the sharing of experiences and knowledge
• Implementation global and closed mechanisms to highlight competences of the African diaspo-ra. Avoid clientelism and develop on the heart of the project, the need to value the expertise and skills on the objective basis. Tools to facili-tate such action are known and available in all respectable public and private organizations.
• I agree to the proposed objectives.• Objectives are all relevant.• The objective is quite encouraging if followed to
the letter.• At a time when the African Union is setting up a
University Pan African lined with seven (7) Afri-can Research Institutes, I hope the platform will enable the development of a Data base of skills and expertise of diaspora to lead technology transfer in universities and institutions in Africa.
• I hope that the platform will implement a da-tabase of experts and skills available in the diaspora to support the transfer of knowledge and technologies within the scope of the Pan African universities with its 7 institutes initiated by the African union.
24
Legend: Feedback related to the procedures and working methods on the platform
1. EADPD must be built in a way that African Diaspora Organizations can easily identify themselves with the platform
2. EADPD must be built in a way that the requi-rements of African Diaspora organizations will be satisfied
3. Therefore African Diaspora organizations should be involved in the network building process as key actors during the implemen-tation phase of the Platform
4. Their comments and suggestions have to be taken into account by building the network
5. Specific African methodologies, approaches should have enough space within the network
6. The diversity and the characteristics of African societies must be taken into account by building the network
Fig. 17: Feedback related to the procedures and working methods:
3.2.8 Procedures and working methods
3.2.8.1 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the procedures and working methods on the platform Interpretation of the graphicMost of the organizations somewhat equally agree (60-70%) on (1), (2), (5) and (6) as requirements and working methods of the platform. However the highest disagreement of the organizations is on (5) specific African methodologies, approaches having enough space within the network (20%). The involvement of actors (3) and (4) in the process of building the platform were the most important aspect for the participants.
Comments related to the procedures and working methods on the platform • We can combine all elements• All relevant.• Considers positive aspects of each society on
the basis of concrete experiences. • Therefore African Diaspora organizations
should be involved in the network building process as key actors during the implementati-on phase of the platform but will be difficult to bring them in one voice at the beginning (the fact that there are more than few thousand NGOs across Europe??)
• Starting the platform to function should be a priority. Their comments and suggestions have to be taken into account by building the network.
25
26
• Avoid inactive members.• The platform cannot fulfil to all needs, it’s a
difference between requirement and need. Organizations of the African diaspora should be involved in the process of building the network as key actors in all phases of the implementa-tion of the platform: No experts can be the key players.
• External and internal communication among members, clients and customers should be effective.
• Involvement and intensify communication.• The ICTs should be the preferred method of
working to bring members of the network together and facilitate their participations.
• The last point is not clear.
3.2.9 Membership Charter (rights and obliga-tions of members of the platform)
3.2.9.1 Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the membership charter
Interpretation of the graphicThe organizations almost equally agree on (1) mem-bers having the right to represent the platform and (2) members have the right to promote his own pro-file, co-development etc. (60-65%). The somewhat agree on (3) that each member has the obligation to act constructively (80%).
Legend: Feedback related to the member-ship charter
1. Each member has the right to represent the Africa-Europe platform in his field of activity
2. Each member has the right to promote his own profile, co-development activities and expertise, in so far as it is in accordance to the rules and objectives of the platform mentioned ahead
3. Each member has the obligation to act constructively and to avoid all activities that could jeopardize the network
Fig. 18: Feedback related to the membership charter
Comments related to the membership charter • Who are the members? Individuals or organi-
zations? E.g. we are an umbrella organization which has 30 members (=organizations)
• The platform must integrate all elements of the diaspora in order to promote their contribution to African development.
• Promote the legitimacy of the platform without necessarily using it to legitimize its own organi-zation whose legitimacy should depend on its own members and actions.
• Very difficult? - Each member has the right to represent the Africa-Europe platform in his field of activity? Yes and No.
• Have a constructive behaviour.• Full participation of members.• We have implemented policies and methods
of work that we need to follow in order to pre-vent damage and we have structures or gover-nance rules.
• The independence of each member organizati-on must also be guaranteed.
• Which activities can compromise the network? • Representation of the platform must take place
in a controlled framework. Clear delegation on the basis of available skills and expertise should be used to facilitate representation in this framework with an obligation to provide an account. For fact finding mission or for project we must proceed with a call for participation or outsource the processes.
• It‘d be emphasize that we‘d draw strength from each in every level and in the cause of our deli-berations.
• Some members clearly identified may represent the platform but not all.
• It’s a welcome idea for all members.• We must highlight the ethical and moral values
in the service of group.
27
Legend: Feedback related to the code of conduct:
1. Adopt a transparent, inclusive, supportive, professional and respectful approach in its dealings and engagement with other be-neficiaries, partners and other stakeholders (interested parties)
2. Promote the value of cooperation and net-working with all groups in the platform
3. Not to compromise organizational integrity or cause disrepute of the platform
4. Not to compromise organizational integrity or cause disrepute of the platform
Fig. 19: Feedback related to the code of conduct
28
3.2.10 Code of conduct
3.2.10.1- Graphic representation of the feed-back related to the code of conduct
Interpretation of the graphicThe graph illustrates almost equal estimation on all codes of conduct which are regarded as somewhat important by almost all organizations (ca. 80%).
Comments • These rules must be shared to prevent abuse of
dominant position• The RULE BOOK should be - Not to compromise
organizational integrity or cause disrepute of the platform. At this phase let us start out of knowing the fact that many NGOs can be/are far from managerial skill and performance as well as transparency.
• Respect of each members• observe different cultural environment• We must be transparent, we need to support
each other, we must respect each other and act in good Reason, we are in the platform to build, to meet a need and we must act as model for others we must protect what we are actually doing and protect integrity platform.
• We need tolerance and openness for a well-functioning network
• Mechanisms are clear and no organization can function effectively and efficientl without this mechanism. The definition of regulatory me-chanisms and a good organization are the basis for the sustainable work of such a structure. Selfishness can be managed if this such kind of mechanisms are planned in the beginning
• The above is o.k. in my opinion• Relevant at any point of view• the code of conduct is quite clear and acceptable
3.2.11 Assets (advantages and strengths) of the Africa-Europe platform and contact infor-mation
• Promoting the Idea, that Africans can hand-le their matters. Creating a voice by, for and through africans. Enhancing the African Agenda through the african eyes.
• collaboration Networking capacity buil-ding information exchange, better access to EU-funding
• to mobilise a pool of experts and hold advocacy or research or any other activity/educational or accountability back to our selves and bring an effective, pragmatic and holostic approach the put aAfrican diaspora visible and partner in the making of Africa and Europe. - to maintain and position the African diaspora on its rightful place as a source of information and a strong partner in development issues, to develop ONE VOICE on matters that has an African perspectives.
• Exchange of Experiences, different kind of sup-ports
• To collectively raise money and human capital(resources) to support development in Africa
• Best Practices : Knowledge sharing & learning on Development initiatives
• Strengthen Africa Diaspora Communities is ac-ross in Europe & Africa
• Development of on common voice on Africa De-velopment
• Networks – knowing more about Africa from Diverse Africans coming together
• Access to African Civil societies across Europe • Promotion & stimulation of African Diasporas
development effort • Understanding of development levels in Africa
countries
• The possibilities are very strong to make a very useful work if each partner involve gives the best, takes the best, share, and build together the best way to real development helping Afri-ca to use it‘s resources in order to solve it‘s own problems
• it will help to integrate African Diaspora into one and formidable group with common identity
• Networking/ support/ mutual understanding and unity for Africa‘s development
• Coordination of resources, and building of con-sortium to develop joint projects, by sector
• The assets will prepare Emerging Africa• Increase the visibility of co-development asso-
ciations, better organisation and to have a bet-ter credibility by the international community
• Create a space for dialogue, collaboration, stra-tegic partnership at European level between actors and African Diaspora and with other de-velopment actors in Africa.
• Space to represent, highlight and promotion of the specific contribution of the African Diaspora in Africa‘s development
• Place of exchange between Europe and Africa• This platform should be able to help accord
point of view and buid a powerful lobby in order to integrate experiences, skills, ideas and priori-ties of migrants in the development of policies for development cooperation. It would also be a valuable tool for promoting the rights of mig-rants and their status.
• There is strength in unity, so long as we can achieve unity our efforts will multiply, and si-milarly if we cannot unite behind an issue this will be a complete waste of time.
• Place to highlight and developing competen-ces of the diaspora who are generally under-exploited
• Influence the decisions of leaders in both Euro-pe and Africa in areas such as co-development, strengthening civil society in developing coun-tries etc. Enable member organizations to grow and reach the masses critiques to access Euro-pean funding for example.
• Benefit from the potential members to have
more strength in the respective countries in Eu-rope and the European Union. Benefit from the experiences of each other, create synergies
• The advantages depend on way how we orga-nize ourselves.
• it can boost the structures of the respective members (Union is strength), especially since it places all the organizations equal footing.
• Mobilize easier all the forces of the diaspora for achieving certain objectives
• Visibility of migrants and promoting their participation in the process of sustainable development in their respective countries of origin/Africa
• Recognition of skills and building a data bank on different expertise
• This could first platform to which migrants have the role of actors and are not simply ma-nipulated by traditional players such as govern-ment agencies or NGOs of countries of the European Union
• Build skills of the facilitators, Access EU financial support, Define clear and achievable objectives
• I think the success of the platform, would first of all respect the MoU proposed above.
• A mechanism facilitating economic and intel-lectual mobility of the diaspora in order ro sup-port the sustainable Development of Africa
• Together will make difference• The advantages may be that African migrants
can contribute to the development of their country of origin and in the same occasion in-hibit the migration of young Africans to Europe.
29
30
3.2.12 Information about the next steps of the project
Almost all organizations want to be informed on the project Africa-Europe platform.
4 Summary of ResultsThe survey confirms the work and processes already started for the implementation of the EAP.
• List of thematic covered by the platform: most of the participants are in line with the pro-posed topics; however they mentioned further aspects which they regard as important which can be integrated in the implementation of the platform. Such as ...
• Countries selected and the criteria of selec-tion: the criteria as well as the countries were generally approved; yet there was a slight dis-agreement concerning some criteria and coun-tries (cp. comments of participants)
• Rules of Engagement: The Rules of Engage-ment were broadly accepted by the partici-pants. The strongest agreement on the Rules of Engagement was among objective 1, promo-ting the contribution of the African Diaspora as a development actor by improving: coordina-tion of initiatives and member organizations; communication between members; participa-tion and cooperation among African migrant organizations working on development issues in Africa; as well as the visibility of African migrant organizations of migrants (website, database, newsletter). Further strong agree-ment was expressed towards objective 2 in the demand for performing workshops in order to enhance the capacity of African diaspora orga-nizations. While objective 3 shows almost equal agreement and somewhat agreement towards methods to improve networking of African mi-grant organizations. Concerning the procedures and working methods, the involvement of ac-tors in the process of building the platform were the most important aspect for the participants.
The Right to represent the network and the visi-bility of members on the platform were shared by most participants whereas the obligation to act constructively and to avoid all activities that could jeopardize the network was more or less agreed. The ethical code of conducts were more or less agreed by all participants
Finally the participants are strongly committed to the project and almost all want be informed on further steps.
4 Summary of Results
31
Africa - Europe PlatformPlateforme AFRIQUE - EUROPE
Report of the first e-Consultation 2012 of the EADPD ProjectEnd
