Setting Constitution By Laws of NGOs

Setting up NGO By-Laws

By-laws are internal documents, a set of rules that enables each organization to conduct its affairs. It is important they be written clearly and in language that is easily understood by all organization stakeholders. This document is frequently necessary for the registration of an NGO with national and public authorities.

Typical items addressed in the bylaws are:

Name and purpose of the NGO. The Purpose is usually a restatement of the NGO's Mission

Statement, but can contain additional details NGO can not be formed as a private limited company.

The frequency, notice, and quorum requirements for organizational meetings. These can be internal or regular meeting of the NGO, or external meetings such as those for the general public, with other stakeholders etc.

Voting qualifications, proxies, and procedures for approval of boards. This is related to the governance structure of the NGO's board. The number and term for members of the board, scope of authority, method of nomination and election to the board, and provision for filling vacancies. List of board officers, method of nomination and election, terms of office, powers, duties, and succession.

Membership and authority of committees or working groups. Many of an NGOs' work is done through sub-committees or groups, and provisions need to be made for such committees.

Title and scope of authority for the executive director and other staff members who are responsible for the day to day functioning of the NGO.

Record-keeping and financial reporting responsibilities. In many countries this is necessary for the maintenance of the tax-exempt status of an NGO.

Amendment procedures for the bylaws and provisions for dissolution of the organization. Writing and gaining approval for a set of bylaws takes thought, time, and the involvement of the organization’s constituents. Bylaws should be written with an emphasis on fair Strategy and transparent governance.