HKSDF, Hong Kong Sustainable Development Forum

Operation


How HKSDF Works

This page describes how HKSDF works in practice, and is divided into four sub sections, namely:

 

Structure

The HKSDF became a registered society under the Societies Ordinance in Hong Kong on 28 February 2001.

The HKSDF is run on a not for profit basis. However, actively seeks sponsorship for its work provided always that such sponsorship is consistent with its mission, objectives and goals.

The day to day administration of the HKSDF is the responsibility of the Executive Committee (ExCo).

The HKSDF does not undertake for profit consultancy work but will disseminate information to its members where members or others are seeking professional assistance with a project or task.


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Operating Principles

A record of key decisions at key meetings of the Executive Committee and Taskforces are kept. These records are open for review, at no fee, for members and the public. Some decisions may be taken in circulation and documents relating to these decisions are similarly available for inspection.

The Executive Committee of the HKSDF generally meets once each month. Meetings and functions for members are also arranged regularly. Additional meetings are arranged when they will assist members in obtaining access to information and when an opportunity can be arranged to review, discuss and debate a topical issue.


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Conduct of Meetings

All members agree to work together to achieve the HKSDF’s Mission, Objectives and Goals.

Members agree to work on a conciliatory basis, to respect each other’s viewpoints and strive to achieve consensus on decisions and initiatives.


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Ten Principles for Consensus Building

The HKSDF has endorsed and adopted the ten principles for consensus building of the Canadian Roundtable, specifically:

Principle 1 – Purpose Driven

People need reason to participate in the process.

Principle 2 – Inclusive not exclusive

All groups with a significant interest in the issues should be involved in the consensus process.

Principle 3 – Voluntary Participation

The groups who are interested participate voluntarily.

Principle 4 – Self Design

The participants design the consensus process.

Principle 5 – Flexibility

Flexibility should be designed into the process.

Principle 6 – Equal Opportunities

All participants have equal access to relevant information and the opportunity to participate effectively through the process.

Principle 7 – Respect for Diverse Interests


Acceptance of the diverse values, interests, and knowledge of the participants involved in the consensus process is essential.

 

Principle 8 – Accountability

The participants are accountable both to their constituencies and to the process that they have agreed to establish.

Principle 9 – Time Limits

Realistic deadlines are necessary throughout the process.

Principle 10 – Implementation

Commitment to implementation and effective monitoring are essential parts of any agreement.

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