Articles of Association

The Articles of Association of the Rights-Centric Education Network ("RCE Network") are published at https://www.rights-centric.education/articles

Backstory

If the RCE Network was a conventional organisation, it would have access to conventional templates of Articles of Association.

But, the Founding Members who initiated the process of convening the Network did not wish to have a conventional organization. So there was an experimental process that involved, among other things

• A large number of Founding Members (so that power shall not be centralised in the hands of a few)
• Who established the Network by consenting to a Memorandum of Association over a long period (July 24 to November 19, 2024)
• Who consented to the Articles of Association for a network that would not discriminate between Founding Members and those who joined later,
• That strives to make decisions by consent
• That strives to be as inclusive towards all members (individual and organizations) without competing with them

Clarifying Remarks

5.1 Benefits of Membership

However, Members may NOT claim to speak for, represent, or be an agent of, the RCE Network. The present articles do NOT have provisions to appoint a Member as a representative or agent: As an example, if I (Sifaan Zavahir) make a statement that "as a Citizen of Sri Lanka I say ..." it does NOT imply that I represent the views of all citizens of Sri Lanka. Likewise if I assert something as "a Founding Member of the Rights-Centric Education Network", it does NOT imply that I represent the views of the entire network

5.3. Applying for Membership

However, prospective members may be requested to provide evidence of their identity: For example, if someone claims to be a particular organization, how do we know it is not a spoof? An email from an official email address would work.

7. Finances

Members (Individuals and Organizations) of the RCE Network may solicit funds for their expenses:For example, recording and producing a documentary, writing and publishing a book, costs of participating in conferences, etc.

8. Decision Making

Decision making in the RCE Network aspires to be consent-based: This is not the same as consensus-based, where it requires consent from everyone; in consent-based it is sufficient if no one objects

No decision shall be binding on Members:e.g. they do not have to participate in any Declaration or Program unless they wish to

While participating in dialogue and voting shall be open to all Members, it is recommended to allow the Members who are affected by the decision to make the decision:For example, it is preferred if a member who is not part of the RCE Framework abstain from voting on decisions regarding it (unless the decision would affect whether they would join the program or not, in which case they should vote)