International network
On April 29, 2009, the “Rights & Prosperity” international public organization has become a member of the “Ishenim” regional network.
“Ishenim” is an informal regional network of partner NGOs which unites public organizations of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.
“Ishenim” network was founded in 1998 by five non-governmental organizations of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyztsna which use Self Help Group (SHG) method in their activity. The network was founded with organizational and institutional support of ACT CA Office. Later on a number of other NGOs using SHG method joined the network. One of the reasons of establishment of the network of non-governmental organizations was an acute need in sharing of experience and lessons learned in the sphere of development of self help groups.
The mission of the network is to improve socio-economic situation in partner countries of the “Ishenim” network via further democratization of society and improvement of lives of vulnerable strata of population in Kyrgyz, Kazakh and Tajik republics.
Main strategic directions for achievement of the network’s mission are:
- Strengthening of partner relations with governmental and business structures, international organizations and other organizations of civil society.
- Advocating the activity and lobbying the interests of target groups.
- Improvement of organizational potential of members and partners of the network.
- Expansion of activity of the network via attraction of new members and partners.
Principles
The network’s work is based on the principles of openness and transparency, responsibility and discipline, equality and mutual support.
Rotation of coordinators
The use of the principle of rotation of coordinators on annual basis inside “Ishenim” network provides equal participation of members in the governance and coordination of network activity. Members of the network gather twice a year to make strategic decisions, share experience and elect network coordinator.
Network’s activity
The activity of the network is based on improvement of efficiency of the SHG method and development of organizational stability of network’s members. In line with its activity members of the network conduct mutual trainings, exchange visits, share information and implement network’s projects. In the future the “Ishenim” network is planning to make joint actions to promote the interests of local communities and develop the movement of self help groups in Central Asia.
