Findings, Challenges and Conclusions: An Abstract from the CBO Study Report
Whereas the three systems of membership, operations and governance are important for making robust community based organizations, NGOs need to embrace e-CBOs as they attempt to create new economic organizations of marginalized and poor communities
I n this article, some of the findings from the study are mentioned, especially regarding the three systems of membership, operations and governance that we know are important for making robust community based organizations (CBOs). We also look at the challenges in creating economic CBOs and in managing transition. Finally, we see a new hybrid structure of the e-CBO emerging. This is different from what one had fathomed at the beginning of the study or is available in the literature on CBOs. It is important to take cognizance of this new institutional form that works. It should be embraced by NGOs as they attempt to create new economic organizations of marginalized and poor communities to enhance incomes of the poor in a more equitable and just manner.
Membership, Operating and Governance System
In a stable CBO, the three systems, viz., Membership System, Operating System and Governance System, are in a dynamic balance. If any of these were weak or nonexistent, the CBO would not be able to fulfil its objective of providing sustainable income to members for any length of time.
Membership System
The overall focus during the pre-formation phase is to strengthen membership. This happens through social mobilization of poor people and forming groups so that they have experience of working as a collective. Members have to be encouraged to question the decisions of the leaders and seek accountability, lest these institutions are hijacked by a few people serenading as leaders. Good leaders emerge from an aware membership base. The experience of working as collectives is important because these collectives are governed by norms and rules that are applied equally rather than by socio-economic hierarchies.