DPI/NGO COMMUNICATIONS WORKSHOP
9 NOVEMBER 2006
DISCUSSION GROUPS SUMMARY
Discussion group participation was organized around four topics drawn from the survey of NGOs done by Sirota, reported in the morning. The participation was lively and productive and this summary is based on the notes of the
rapporteurs.
During the discussion of the topic “Practical techniques for how to find out about the UN and the NGO representative role more quickly and efficiently and for being an effective NGO rep at the
UN”, the group made many recommendations, such as “Hold periodic mini-orientation meetings”, “Provide notice of meetings as far in advance as possible”, “Identify new badge holders immediately and email them a comprehensive information packet” and “Introduce new NGO reps during weekly DPI/NGO Briefings”.
The Issue #2 group discussing “Coordinating/Networking/Partnering with Other NGO
reps”, suggested “Periodic meetings of like-minded NGOs”, “Take time during the weekly briefings to have NGOs present the activities of their own NGOs”, “Collect NGO success stories to put on the website.”
One recommendation of the group discussion on “Improving NGO Understanding of the DPI/NGO Executive
Committee”, to “Use Committee members as moderators of the Workshop discussion groups” has already been implemented by the Exec. Comm. Communications Subcommittee Co-Chairs. One very practical idea suggested is to “Have Executive Committee members wear distinctive badges for identification”. Other ideas included: “Publicize Executive Committee events at the briefings,” and “Coordinate UN events to encourage more participation by overseas NGO reps”.
The group discussing “How to Communicate with your NGO
Membership” generated a number of creative ideas, such as “Use NGO listservs, website, newsletters to inform about UN activities”, “Periodically involve local media”, “Develop a youth-oriented blog”, “Poster/Essay contests within your NGO”, and to “Collaborate with other NGOs on shared causes”.
One overarching conclusion emerged from these participatory discussions; there is a need to exert efforts to ensure that every NGO representative gains greater understanding of and comfortable familiarity with the informational riches available through the NGO Resource Centre, and makes use of the Resource Centre frequently and as a matter of good routine for an NGO representative. The next step is finding inexpensive, practical and innovative ways to meet this need.
Draft submitted by J. Braak
