Introduction
This toolkit is a roadmap to empower Civil Society Organisations CSOs to adapt their organisational culture, practices and strategies to better align with the ideals of social movements.
In a rapidly changing world where transformative change is more essential than ever, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) find themselves at the forefront of advocating for social progress and justice. To truly drive systemic change, CSOs are increasingly recognizing the power of aligning with social movements. This shift requires more than just collaboration – it demands a fundamental transforma- tion in mindset.
The concept of a “movement mindset” embodies the ethos of collective action, grassroots empowerment, and shared values. It encompasses the understanding that social movements are dynamic forces that drive change from the ground up, and CSOs have a unique role in supporting and amplifying their impact.
Building a movement mindset within CSOs is not only about fostering partnerships but also about adopting the principles and dynamics that propel social movements forward.
In this toolkit guide, we delve into the core elements of cultivating a movement mindset within CSOs. We explore the “why” behind this transformation, highlighting the profound impact it can have on achieving lasting change. We dive into the “what” – the principles, values, and strategies that define a movement mindset. We discuss the “who” – the stakeholders involved and the collective effort required to make this shift possible. Lastly, we delve into the “how,” offering practical steps that CSOs can take to authentically engage with and support social movements.
By embracing a movement mindset, CSOs can become genuine allies, catalysts for change, and driving forces behind the collective pursuit of a more just, equitable, and transformative world.
Contents
- Tool 1: Motivation and goals for a movement mindset
- Tool 2: Context analysis on social movements
- Tool 3: Strategic analysis and scoping of movements
- Tool 4: SWOT on organisational assessment of building movement mindset
- Tool 5: Movement cycle support analysis
- Tool 6: Risk assessment, mitigation and contingency
- Tool 7: Safeguarding as culture
- Tool 8: Financial guidelines for working with movements
- Tool 9: Tracking movement support and impact
Excerpt
Here is a sneak peak into the resource.
Social movement cycle analysis template
Risk analysis tool
Access Full Resource
Toolbox: Building a Movement Mindset (PDF 28 pgs)
Note: There is also an earlier version of this resource.
Explore Further
- Power and Connection – Exploring how Organisations Engage with Communities
- Community Organising Aims to Win Back Civil Society’s Rightful Place
- It’s All About Power: A Guide to Thinking Differently about Power for Solidarity in Social Change
- The Social Change Grid: A Framework for Understanding Social Change