Organizations and networks interested in joining BCSDN should apply for an associate status first.
An organization or network may obtain associate status with BCSDN if it complies with the following criteria:
– Is a civil society organization or network, registered in one of the countries listed in Article 4, in accordance with the national legislation of that country;
– Works towards and contributes to strengthening and/or developing civil society in the Balkan region through activities such as advocacy and capacity development.
Candidature
An organization or network acquires associate status through:
– Submitting an expression of interest accompanied by a statement of acceptance of BCSDN’s vision and mission;
– Submitting a recommendation letter from at least 2 organizations holding a member status, one of which must be from the same country as the candidate organization, provided that there are member organizations from that country.
Eligibility for member status
An organization or network may obtain a member status in BCSDN if it meets the following criteria:
– Has held an associate member status for at least one year;
– Has paid the membership fee and actively participated in the work of the network and BCSDN bodies;
– After one year of associate membership, expresses its interest in becoming a full member of the network at the next Council meeting.
Decision on status
Granting of associate status is decided by the Council, with a simple majority vote.
Granting of member status for an organization with an associate status is decided by the Council, with a simple majority vote, after one year of active participation in BCSDN work.
Termination of status
Member status can be terminated if the organization:
– Does not participate in two subsequent Council meetings without justified cause;
– Violates the Statute or other BCSDN Acts;
– Does not pay its membership fee for two consecutive years;
– Works contrary to the goals, tasks and reputation of the BCSDN;
– Is in any other situation envisaged by the Law or this Statute.
The decision on termination is taken by a simple majority of all organizations with member status present at the Council meeting. When the status of an organization with member status has been terminated based on paragraph 1 and 2 of this Article, the organization can become an organization with associate status if it so declares.
Associate status by an organization can be terminated based on the same procedure.
Voluntary termination
Member and associate status can also be terminated on a voluntary basis with a written statement by the organization.