Governance Decision-Making Tool

Organisational structure

When establishing or reviewing a designated area, it is important to consider what sort of organisation would best serve the aims of that area. For example, some designated areas operate as independent NGOs, whilst others are closely affiliated to local government. There can be clear advantages and disadvantages to each. Decision-making around this theme will be strongly influenced by the national political/economic context in which the area is being set up – for example, the level of financial support at local government level may be higher in some countries than others.

Click in the following key questions to get information, practical examples and resources.

• What funding is available for our area?

• Do we have the necessary people, skills and knowledge within our area to ensure its effective governance?

• What is a board/steering group?

• What degree of independence should our organisation have?

• What are the advantages/disadvantages of being closely linked to local government/municipality?

• What are the advantages/disadvantages of being a fully independent organisation (eg, an NGO)?

• (If not a fully independent organisation) What should a designated area have responsibility for?