Q8. Regarding Proposed Motion 6, what are the implications of adding in the word territory to the Constitution?
A8. The inclusion of the word territory within WAGGGS’s Constitution and Bye-Laws is only for the purposes of defining eligibility for WAGGGS membership and does not imply political recognition or a position on sovereignty status.
The WAGGGS Membership Policy already includes definitions of country and territory. Full Membership of WAGGGS has already been approved by World Conference for five Member Organisations that meet the policy’s definition of a territory – that is, a geographical area subject to the sovereignty, control, or jurisdiction of a state or other entity. Therefore, this Proposed Motion is intended to align the Constitution and Bye-Laws with historical and current practice, recognising that Full Membership has been approved various territories by World Conferences over the past fifty years. The World Board does not feel that there are significant implications of this decision,
However, we have approved an update to WAGGG'sMembership Policy to set out the measures that need to be in place if territories which fall within the geographic, constitutional, or operational remit of an existing Member Organisation wish to be considered for independent membership of WAGGGS, The Policy now clarifies this is only possible if:
- The recognised Member Organisation in that country provides explicit written support; and
- WAGGGS is satisfied that such consideration would not undermine the unity, stability, or effective functioning of the existing Member Organisation or the Movement as a whole.
More generally, the Policy also clarifies that the World Board retains the right, at its sole discretion, to decline or defer entry into the membership process for any country or territory, where it determines that:
- The Proposed Member Organisation would not be operationally, financially, or structurally sustainable;
- Recognition would place a disproportionate demand on WAGGGS’ resources; or
- Proceeding would likely have a negative impact on an existing Member Organisation.
The World Board believes that these Policy additions provide appropriate further clarity and assurance on the rigorous assessment process for membership requests from territories.