Newsletter November 2019 HEADLINESBringing in new voices to improve policy coherence in ScotlandIn October 2019, a new Wiki resource was launched that seeks to collaboratively develop understanding on policy coherence issues, suggest solutions, track progress and stimulate debate. Crucially, this open and editable online resource is for all sectors in Scotland. The recent announcement by the Scottish Government International Development Minister that a new Inter-Ministerial Group will take forward policy coherence for sustainable development is also warmly welcomed, and it is hoped this resource will assist the work this group undertakes. Ultimately, improving policy coherence benefits everyone. Whether the ultimate goal is poverty eradication at home or overseas, upholding human rights, a well-being economy, improved environmental protection, improving policy coherence is critical to ensuring that progress towards one goal is not at the expense of others. Safeguarding remains high on the agenda – a new project for the AllianceThe Scottish Government and the Alliance maintain their commitment to driving up standards in safeguarding in the international aid and development sector in Scotland. In order to build on the work carried out last year, a new project is underway at the Alliance to embed good standards of safeguarding in organisations. One year on from the summit on tackling sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual harassment in the international aid sector, the UK Government has also published a set of progress reports. UK general election: What should our sector hope for from manifesto commitments?On 12 December, people across the UK will go to the polls. In the interim period much will be said on the campaign trail, but what commitments should be we be looking out for in manifestos? There are also implications for organisations that wish to campaign during the election period. Our friends at Bond layout the rules here. Alliance 2019 AGM on 4 December fast approaching!All Alliance members are invited to join us for our 2019 Annual General Meeting. This is a great opportunity to connect with representatives from our large and diverse network of members. The theme of this year's meeting is ‘The Sustainable Development Goals: entering the decade of delivery’. It will feature a panel discussion on the topic, and we’ll also be launching our long awaited report showcasing our membership’s diverse contributions to the SDGs globally. WHAT ARE OUR MEMBERS UP TO?Creativity as power: Using arts to elevate underrepresented voicesThrough connecting creatives from the UK and beyond, Mxogyny’s aim is to bring issues of gender, sexuality and identity to the foreground. Maisie Palmer and Leonie Hodgkin tells us why they have created an online platform looking to illuminate marginalised voices. We must not tolerate children growing up in refugee campsTony Collins, director of Mishwar, - small Scottish charity working in the refugee camps of North Lebanon - writes about why we must remind the world that refugee camps are not normal. Many of the children and families they work with are in their eighth year of living as refugees. Want to write a blog for us? Find out more. IN OTHER NEWSCapacity building for INGOs in ScotlandAre you held back in your mission by gaps in your organisation’s capacity? The Alliance could bid for a grant to add new services to its effectiveness programme but we need your help to tailor our bid to your needs. Two-year project by CIVICUS and partners reveals challenges for migrants and refugeesIn Zambia, a People’s Budget campaign demands a budget that works for womenHow good is your organisation's governance?Celebrate Trustee Week with us by asking how good is your organisational governance and how can it be improved? Re-watch our webinar with SCVO about their newly launched governance check-up . University of Edinburgh recruiting for placement-based dissertationsDevex asks: Are rich countries 'glossing over' their climate finance obligations?UPCOMING EVENTSCPG: The impact of business and trade on human rights26 November 2019 Big business has a massive role to play in tackling global poverty, but profit often comes first. This meeting of the Scottish Parliament's Cross Party Group on International Development looks at what can be done. COP 26 mobilisation planning meeting17 December 2019 The UK is set to host COP 26 climate change negotiations in late 2020 in Glasgow. Join us to discuss how we can approach making the most our global connections to add value to this significant political event. GET INVOLVEDThe Alliance CommunityThe Alliance Community is an online forum for members to discuss, share and connect with other members. A whole host of discussions have taken place this month. Read our monthly round-up and get involved. Registered Scottish Charity No. SC035314 |