The proposal on Strengthening the Participation of Farmers' Organizations and of
Non-Governmental Organisations in the Global Agenda of Agricultural Research for
Development was the subject of a three-week electronic discussion among
stakeholders.
In general, the proposal was found to be interesting as it was responsive to the
capacity building needs of farmers' and non-government organizations (FOs and
NGOs) in facilitating the involvement in the research process. The project's
emphasis on facilitating the interaction of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) with
other stakeholders from the national to global level is also found useful and
innovative as it will promote an exchange of experience and knowledge among and
across farmers' organizations and NGOs.
Representativity was a focus of many of the suggestions, some of which are
included below. CSOs that will be involved in the project will have to be chosen by
their constituents and should have clear, endorsed mandates. Their role vis-à-vis
the project will have to be defined and accountability issues should be addressed.
Representatives of constituencies of the project should be responsible for providing
feedback to their constituents. The project should be flexible, that is, highlight
activities identified and agreed by stakeholders..