Hi all One key to getting more members is giving more people a stake in why, for all its imperfections, ICANN and its various bodies, like the GNSO, need to work and why these need to work now. There are opportunities to raise this awareness and increase engagement among wider civil society groups which are becoming increasingly concerned about government, and non-government, actions in relation to the internet, but are still unclear about what the DNS is and how the co-ordination role of ICANN works. But greater participation is not just about increasing current member numbers, but also ensuring that current members actively participate so that the widest possible range of NCSG voices is available to help guide decision-making and ensure accountability. Better engagement from existing members could be achieved in several ways (and I acknowledge some great suggestions from other candidates). In addition, members' competing priorities can often be managed if they have more time to plan ahead. It might be useful to have consultation and an annual programme of work (including thematic issues) to help members know what to expect and roughly when the topics they are interested in will come up, so that the broad cycle of work is clear. APC has global network in more than 35 countries and network members are keen to find ways to engage more in GNSO and ICANN related activities. But some find the complexity of processes and apparent size of the work programme are barriers to engagement on the 1 or 2 issues they feel strongly about. My responsibility, if elected, is to stay in regular contact with APC members and encourage their participation in NCSG. Finally, as representatives, the Chair and Council Members have responsibilities to ensure that their participation reflects the diversity of the groups whose interests they represent. Keeping an open mind, being prepared to listen, making constructive practical suggestions, and exhibiting strong values based decision-making are all great ways to deliver on those responsibilities to NSCG members. Joy -----Original Message----- From: NCSG-Discuss [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Avri Doria Sent: Friday, 30 September 2011 5:20 p.m. To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Candidate Question 1: NCSG Particpation As I have not been able to get a conference call scheduled yet, I am starting the question process. I suggest that all candidates answer all questions. I suggest that they feel free to debate among themselves and with the members of the NCSG. Thanks Avri Question 1: How does one achieve greater participation from NCSG members. What is the responsibility of the Chair/council member in the effort to achieve greater participation