Revitalizing Civil Society’s Voice in Global Governance

Established in 1995 to create a more systematic relationship between the GEF and civil society, the GEF Civil Society Organization (CSO) Network (GCN)—originally known as the GEF NGO Network—has the potential to become a vital conduit for CSO voices within the GEF Partnership.

Over the years, the CSO Network has faced a range of internal and operational challenges that have hindered its ability to fully realize its potential. Coordination difficulties, internal divisions, and favoritism led to a period of reduced focus and cohesion. During this time, many civil society organizations experienced delays or received no response to membership applications, discouraging wider participation and eroding trust in the Network’s responsiveness.

These structural and procedural shortcomings strained the Network’s credibility and limited its ability to serve as a truly inclusive platform for civil society engagement. Concerns about governance practices became more pronounced during recent electoral processes, raising questions about transparency and accountability. Although calls for an independent review were made, they did not advance, and those raising legitimate concerns faced pushback, leaving issues unresolved.

This period served as a turning point, underscoring the urgent need for reform and highlighting vulnerabilities in the Network’s governance and oversight systems.

Turning the Tide: The Falconer Report

Recognizing the gravity of the situation in 2023, the GEF commissioned Partnerships and Civil Society Expert Andrés Falconer to conduct a thorough review of the Network. His findings offered a candid assessment of the Network’s failures and potential, highlighting:

  1. An ambiguous and asymmetric relationship between the Network and the GEF Secretariat.
  2. A lack of clear purpose or value proposition for its members and stakeholders.
  3. Insufficient organizational capacity to operate effectively.
  4. Dysfunctional governance characterized by a hierarchical structure and weak member engagement.
  5. Outdated representation mechanisms and electoral processes that undermine legitimacy.
  6. Strong support from both GEF leadership and civil society for the revitalization of the CSO Network.

To address these issues, Falconer proposed six key recommendations:

  1. Reaffirm independence and autonomy – The Network must earn legitimacy through actions, not entitlement.
  2. Construct a working relationship with the GEF Secretariat  – Prioritize problem-solving and practical collaboration.
  3. Decentralize and localize the Network – Empower members and amplify grassroots voices.
  4. Expand the notion of civil society – Engage emerging groups, including youth, Indigenous peoples, and women-led organizations.
  5. Break the capacity trap – Implement achievable reforms while building long-term institutional strength.
  6. Reform governance – Emphasize participatory processes, reevaluate electoral mechanisms, and decouple concentrated leadership roles.

These recommendations are beginning to shape a new chapter for the Network.

The Push for Governance Reform

Steps are now being taken within the Regional Focal Point structure to operationalize these reforms. Recognizing that a broken system cannot repair itself from within, meaningful structural and cultural changes are essential—anchored in transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness.

One of the most important lessons from the election irregularities is the need for external oversight. The absence of a neutral body to monitor elections and mediate disputes allowed irregularities to persist. As a corrective measure, reformers are organizing the establishment of an Independent Governance and/or Integrity Commission—an entity with the authority to review complaints, oversee internal processes, and ensure fair play.

Additionally, the Network lacks essential policies that are now standard in most international organizations. A Safeguarding Policy is urgently needed to protect members—especially marginalized groups—from harassment, exploitation, or abuse. Equally important is a Whistleblower Policy to protect individuals who raise concerns about misconduct or mismanagement. These mechanisms are essential for creating a safe and accountable environment.

To maintain its credibility, transparency, and accountability as a global alliance of civil society organizations, the GEF CSO Network must adopt robust internal governance measures, including a safeguarding policy and a whistleblower policy. These are not only aligned with international best practices but are increasingly considered essential in global civil society. A whistleblower policy, in particular, supports a culture of openness and integrity, while a safeguarding policy ensures that all individuals associated with the Network are protected from harm, exploitation, and abuse.

Key reasons to adopt these policies:

  • Regulatory compliance: Many countries now legally require such policies; having them prepares the Network for global operations.
  • Ethical governance:Clear reporting channels demonstrate the Network’s commitment to transparency and integrity.
  • Risk mitigation: Early reporting of misconduct helps prevent reputational or operational damage.
  • Protection of members and staff: Safeguarding policies uphold a safe environment for all stakeholders, particularly in vulnerable communities.
  • Trust and credibility:These policies foster a culture where individuals feel secure to raise concerns, strengthening trust across the Network.
  • Alignment with global standards:Adopting these policies ensures the Network keeps pace with expectations from international donors, partners, and institutions.

A Challenge—and an Opportunity

The GEF’s broader vision under its current proactive leadership sets a bold course for civil society engagement. Framed as a “moral imperative,” this vision seeks to increase civil society participation in GEF decision-making and raise the share of direct GEF funding to civil society groups from 1% to 10% by 2030.

This ambition presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the GEF CSO Network. A reformed and energized Network could become a vital partner in realizing this vision—helping local groups access funding, shape policies, and implement solutions. Conversely, if the Network fails to reform, it risks further marginalization and irrelevance.

The CSO Network’s history and institutional knowledge still hold value. Its potential to catalyze grassroots-driven change remains significant, but the window of opportunity is narrowing. Only through radical reform can it reclaim its role as a legitimate and effective actor within the GEF architecture.

A Turning Point

The governance challenges that have surfaced in recent years mark a pivotal moment in the Network’s evolution. For some, they highlighted a departure from the founding ideals; for many committed to positive change, they sparked a renewed sense of purpose. This moment has become a catalyst for rebuilding trust, strengthening accountability, and shaping a more inclusive and resilient future for the Network.

This requires full transparency, championing inclusive processes, and reconnecting the Network with its base. A vibrant, participatory, and well-governed Network can become a force for good. If successful, the GEFF’s CSO Network can fulfill its potential—supporting communities and organizations to restore ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience, and build sustainable livelihoods.

Are you an environmental civil society organization eager to help shape the global environmental agenda and co-create impactful international programs that support local action on the ground? We invite you to join the GEF CSO Network—as a member or partner.

Together, we can build a future where people and the planet thrive in harmony. Through renewed purpose and collaboration, the vital role of civil society in global environmental governance can be strengthened and fully realized.

We welcome enquiries and look forward to welcoming new members to the network, together we can empower change for a greener tomorrow, creating positive lasting impact and outcomes that are both people and planet positive.