CSOs to Hold Symposium on Strengthening Civil Society Role in OGP
Organizers expect to produce a comprehensive report summarizing the symposium's outcomes and an action plan for CSO advocacy in the next NAP co-creation cycle.
LILONGWE, Malawi— A coalition of civil society organizations in Malawi is set to host a symposium Tuesday aimed at bolstering the role of CSOs in the country's Open Government Partnership (OGP) process, writes Winston Mwale.
The event, scheduled for September 24, 2024, at the Sunbird Capital Hotel in Lilongwe, is being organized by the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), the Council for Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOMA), the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT), and the Natural Resources Justice Network (NRJN).
The symposium, titled "Strengthening and Broadening CSOs Participation in OGP in Malawi," comes amid concerns about limited CSO involvement in the development and implementation of Malawi's current National Action Plan (NAP).
Organizers hope to gather at least 65 in-person and 40 online delegates from various civil society groups and key stakeholders.
The event aims to assess the current NAP's implementation, identify priorities for the upcoming 2025-2029 NAP, and develop strategies for more effective CSO participation in the OGP process.
The symposium is designed to ensure that the needs and interests of diverse CSOs are fully reflected in the new NAP.
Organizers aim to foster collaboration, coordination, and networking in the civic sector to promote greater transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance reforms.
The event will feature presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions to encourage diverse input and inclusive participation.
Organizers expect to produce a comprehensive report summarizing the symposium's outcomes and an action plan for CSO advocacy in the next NAP co-creation cycle.
The Open Government Partnership is a global initiative promoting transparent, accountable, and responsive governance through collaboration between governments and civil society.