Collaboration
The Global Centre for Risk and Innovation (GCRI) recognizes the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global risks and fostering innovation. This Collaboration Charter sets forth the principles, structures, and guidelines to ensure effective and harmonious collaboration among all parties involved at the global, regional, national, and local levels.
Principles
1.1 Building an Inclusive Digital Economy
GCRI aims to identify and address risk factors that impede vulnerable and marginalized groups' access to connectivity, ensuring a more inclusive digital economy. This involves:
Creating equitable opportunities for all individuals to participate in the digital space.
Promoting digital literacy through community programs and educational initiatives.
Supporting projects that bridge the digital divide by providing infrastructure and resources to underserved areas.
1.2 Developing Human and Institutional Capacity
GCRI seeks to integrate existing initiatives, public entities, and regional and subregional bodies to enhance digital capacity-building. This involves:
Conducting comprehensive training programs tailored to different organizational needs.
Sharing resources and best practices through collaborative platforms.
Establishing partnerships with educational institutions to foster continuous learning and development.
1.3 Protecting Human Rights and Human Agency
GCRI is dedicated to providing effective due diligence systems that ensure technology products, policies, practices, and terms of service comply with human rights principles and community standards in diverse contexts. This includes:
Implementing policies that safeguard freedom of expression, privacy, and data protection.
Ensuring that all technological advancements empower rather than undermine human agency.
Conducting regular audits and assessments to ensure compliance with human rights standards.
1.4 Stewarding Digital Trust, Security, and Stability
GCRI is committed to fostering user agency and choice, informed consent, recognition of multiple forms of identity, space for anonymity, and respect for privacy. This involves:
Ensuring transparency when individual data is utilized by governmental or other entities.
Developing and implementing robust cybersecurity measures.
Educating users on digital rights and security practices to build trust and stability.
1.5 Fostering Global Digital Cooperation
GCRI promotes proposals to strengthen cooperation in the digital space among governments, the private sector, civil society, international organizations, academic institutions, the technical community, and other relevant stakeholders. This involves:
Organizing international forums and conferences to facilitate dialogue and collaboration.
Developing and advocating for international standards and frameworks for digital governance.
Encouraging cross-sector partnerships and joint initiatives to address global digital challenges.
Participants
The GCRI platform comprises global, regional, national, and local collaborators, including various boards and working groups. Collectively, these entities are referred to as “Members” within this Charter.
2.1 Global Stewardship Board (GSB)
Composition: Trustees, chairs of GSB Committees, Regional Stewardship Boards (RSBs), and Specialized Leadership Boards (SLBs).
Role: Provide strategic oversight, set objectives, review progress, and ensure alignment with GCRI’s mission and values.
2.2 Regional Stewardship Boards (RSBs)
Composition: Regional representatives, experts, and stakeholders.
Role: Adapt and implement global strategies within specific regions, bridge global directives and local execution, facilitate regional collaboration, and engage local stakeholders.
2.3 Specialized Leadership Boards (SLBs)
Composition: Technical and thematic area experts.
Role: Oversee the development and execution of technical strategies, ensuring initiatives are based on best practices.
2.4 National Advisory Councils (NACs)
Composition: National representatives, experts, and stakeholders.
Role: Provide national insights, feedback, and recommendations, ensuring national perspectives are integrated into global strategies.
2.5 National Working Groups (NWGs)
Composition: Local experts and practitioners.
Role: Facilitate local implementation of global standards and policies, ensure initiatives meet national needs, and promote local engagement.
2.6 Bioregional Assemblies: Nexus Competence Cells (NCCs)
Composition: Grassroots community stakeholders.
Role: Represent local voices, engage directly with community stakeholders, and ensure local insights and needs are reflected in operations.
3. Roles and Responsibilities
3.1 GCRI Headquarters
Strategic Planning: Develop and communicate the strategic vision and goals of GCRI to all Members. Ensure that the strategies are aligned with the mission and values of GCRI.
Resource Allocation: Distribute resources equitably to support initiatives. This includes financial resources, technological tools, and human resources.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement systems for monitoring and evaluating the impact of initiatives. Use data-driven insights to continuously improve strategies and operations.
3.2 Regional Stewardship Boards (RSBs)
Regional Strategy: Adapt global strategies to regional contexts, ensuring they are relevant and effective.
Collaboration Facilitation: Promote regional collaboration by organizing workshops, meetings, and collaborative projects.
Progress Reporting: Regularly report on regional activities and progress to the GSB. Use standardized reporting formats to ensure consistency.
3.3 National Advisory Councils (NACs)
National Consultation: Provide a platform for national consultation and feedback. Organize national forums and stakeholder meetings.
Policy Recommendations: Offer evidence-based recommendations on national policies and strategies.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage national stakeholders through targeted outreach and communication strategies.
3.4 National Working Groups (NWGs)
Local Implementation: Implement global standards and policies at the national level. Develop localized action plans and timelines.
Community Engagement: Engage local communities through participatory approaches. Organize community workshops and events.
Feedback Mechanism: Establish feedback mechanisms to gather local insights and challenges. Report these to higher governance levels.
3.5 Bioregional Assemblies: Nexus Competence Cells (NCCs)
Grassroots Representation: Engage directly with community stakeholders to ensure local insights and needs are integrated into GCRI’s strategies.
Community-Centric Initiatives: Foster community-centric initiatives that promote resilience, sustainability, and security. Develop pilot projects and case studies.
Collaboration
4.1 Communication and Coordination
4.1.1 Regular Meetings
Scheduling: GCRI shall schedule regular meetings at the global, regional, national, and local levels to discuss progress, challenges, and plans. The frequency and timing of these meetings shall be established and communicated at the beginning of each fiscal year.
Standardized Agendas: Each meeting shall have a standardized agenda prepared in advance by the designated meeting coordinator. The agenda shall be distributed to all participants at least one week before the scheduled meeting date.
Minutes: Detailed minutes of each meeting shall be recorded, including attendance, key discussions, decisions made, and action items. Minutes shall be circulated to all participants within one week after the meeting and stored securely for future reference.
4.1.2 Information Sharing
Secure Platforms: GCRI shall establish secure platforms for sharing information, resources, and best practices among Members. These platforms shall employ robust security measures to protect data integrity and confidentiality.
Data Protection: All shared information shall comply with data protection and privacy laws applicable in the jurisdictions of operation. GCRI shall implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with these laws, including regular audits and training for Members on data protection best practices.
4.1.3 Collaborative Platforms
Digital Tools: GCRI shall utilize digital tools and platforms to facilitate collaboration and communication among all parties. These tools shall include, but are not limited to, video conferencing software, collaborative document editing platforms, and project management systems.
Training: GCRI shall provide comprehensive training to all Members on the use of these digital tools. Training sessions shall be conducted regularly and upon the introduction of new tools or updates to existing tools.
4.2 Decision-Making
4.2.1 Consensus Building
Facilitated Discussions: GCRI shall strive for consensus in decision-making processes by employing facilitated discussions and conflict resolution techniques. Facilitators with expertise in mediation and consensus-building shall be engaged to guide these discussions.
Documentation: All decisions reached through consensus shall be documented, including the rationale for the decision and any dissenting opinions. This documentation shall be accessible to all Members for transparency and accountability.
4.2.2 Delegated Authority
Scope and Limits: GCRI shall clearly define the scope and limits of delegated authority for decision-making. This shall include specific roles and responsibilities for individuals or committees authorized to make decisions on behalf of GCRI.
Approval Processes: Delegated decisions shall follow established approval processes, including appropriate oversight and review by higher governance levels as necessary. Documentation of these processes shall be maintained for accountability.
4.3 Conflict Resolution
4.3.1 Conflict Prevention
Open Communication: GCRI shall promote a culture of open communication and mutual respect to prevent conflicts. This includes regular team-building activities and workshops focused on effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Proactive Measures: GCRI shall implement proactive measures to identify and address potential sources of conflict early. This may include anonymous feedback mechanisms and regular check-ins with Members.
4.3.2 Mediation Mechanisms
Formal Mechanisms: GCRI shall establish formal mechanisms for mediating and resolving conflicts constructively and fairly. This shall include the appointment of trained mediators who are neutral and impartial.
Access to Mediators: All Members shall have access to these mediators when conflicts arise. Mediation sessions shall be confidential, and outcomes shall be documented with the agreement of all parties involved.
Resolution Documentation: Resolutions reached through mediation shall be documented, including the terms of the resolution and any follow-up actions required. This documentation shall be stored securely and accessible to relevant parties.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Collaboration Processes section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend exhibits related to procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
Evaluation
5.1 Performance Metrics
5.1.1 Define Metrics
Establishment of Metrics: GCRI shall establish clear and measurable performance metrics to assess the effectiveness of collaboration and initiatives. These metrics shall be developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders and aligned with GCRI's strategic objectives.
SMART Criteria: All performance metrics shall adhere to the SMART criteria, ensuring they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This ensures clarity, focus, and the ability to track progress effectively.
Documentation and Communication: The defined metrics shall be documented and communicated to all Members. This documentation shall include detailed descriptions of each metric, the rationale for its selection, and the method of measurement.
5.1.2 Regular Reviews
Review Schedule: GCRI shall conduct regular reviews and evaluations to track progress against the established performance metrics. These reviews shall occur at predetermined intervals, at least quarterly, and more frequently if required.
Quantitative and Qualitative Methods: The reviews shall utilize both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive assessment of performance. Quantitative methods may include statistical analysis of data, while qualitative methods may involve interviews, case studies, and observational techniques.
Reporting: The findings from these reviews shall be compiled into detailed reports. These reports shall include an analysis of progress, identification of areas for improvement, and recommendations for future actions. The reports shall be distributed to all Members and relevant stakeholders.
5.2 Feedback Loops
5.2.1 Continuous Feedback
Feedback Mechanisms: GCRI shall implement continuous feedback mechanisms to gather input from all Members and stakeholders. These mechanisms shall include, but are not limited to, surveys, focus groups, feedback forms, and suggestion boxes.
Anonymity and Confidentiality: To encourage honest and open feedback, GCRI shall ensure that all feedback mechanisms allow for anonymity and confidentiality. Measures shall be put in place to protect the identity of those providing feedback.
5.2.2 Adaptive Strategies
Analysis of Feedback: All feedback gathered through the continuous feedback mechanisms shall be analyzed systematically to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement.
Strategic Adjustments: Based on the analysis of feedback and evaluation results, GCRI shall adjust its strategies and actions as necessary. This may include modifying existing initiatives, launching new projects, reallocating resources, or revising policies.
Documentation and Communication: Any changes made to strategies or actions as a result of feedback and evaluation shall be documented. This documentation shall include the rationale for the changes, the expected impact, and the implementation plan. The changes shall be communicated to all relevant parties promptly.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Monitoring and Evaluation section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
Capacity Building
6.1 Training Programs
6.1.1 Skill Development
Workshops and Seminars:
Organization: GCRI shall organize regular workshops and seminars on relevant topics to enhance the skills and capacities of all Members.
Frequency: These workshops and seminars shall be held at least quarterly and shall cover a diverse range of topics pertinent to GCRI's mission and goals.
Participation: All Members are encouraged to participate actively, and attendance may be mandatory for certain roles or projects.
Online Courses:
Access: GCRI shall provide access to a comprehensive library of online courses and webinars. These courses shall be available to all Members and updated regularly to reflect new developments and best practices.
Content: Courses shall cover various aspects of GCRI’s operations, including risk management, innovation, policy development, and technology use.
Certifications:
Program Development: GCRI shall establish certification programs to recognize and validate the new skills acquired by Members through training programs.
Standards: Certification programs shall adhere to high standards of quality and relevance, ensuring that certifications are recognized both within and outside GCRI.
Assessment: Members seeking certification shall undergo a thorough assessment process, including practical and theoretical evaluations.
6.1.2 Knowledge Sharing
Peer Learning Groups:
Establishment: GCRI shall establish peer learning groups to facilitate the sharing of experiences and best practices among Members.
Structure: These groups shall be organized based on areas of expertise, interest, or geographic location, and shall meet regularly.
Knowledge Hubs:
Creation: GCRI shall create online knowledge hubs where resources, case studies, and toolkits are available to all Members.
Maintenance: The knowledge hubs shall be maintained and updated regularly to ensure that the information is current and comprehensive.
Expert Panels:
Sessions: GCRI shall organize regular sessions with expert panels to discuss emerging trends and challenges. These sessions shall be open to all Members and shall encourage active participation and dialogue.
Topics: The topics for these sessions shall be selected based on current issues, Member needs, and strategic priorities.
6.2 Resource Support
6.2.1 Technical Assistance
Technical Experts:
Access: GCRI shall provide Members with access to a pool of technical experts for consultation and support.
Selection: Experts shall be selected based on their expertise, experience, and alignment with GCRI’s strategic objectives.
Toolkits and Resources:
Distribution: GCRI shall distribute toolkits, guidelines, and templates to Members to support the effective implementation of initiatives.
Content: These resources shall cover a wide range of topics and shall be designed to be practical and easy to use.
6.2.2 Financial Support
Grants and Sub-Grants:
Distribution: GCRI shall distribute grants and sub-grants to Members based on defined criteria. The criteria shall include project relevance, impact potential, and alignment with GCRI’s strategic goals.
Application Process: Members seeking financial support shall submit detailed proposals outlining their projects, objectives, and expected outcomes. Proposals shall be reviewed and approved by the relevant GCRI committees.
Fundraising Support:
Assistance: GCRI shall assist Members in developing fundraising strategies and writing grant proposals. This includes providing templates, guidelines, and expert advice.
Resources: GCRI shall offer resources such as training sessions on fundraising, access to potential funding sources, and networking opportunities with donors and grant-making organizations.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Capacity Building and Support section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
Ethical and Legal
7.1 Ethical Guidelines
7.1.1 Integrity and Honesty
Standards: GCRI and its Members shall uphold the highest standards of integrity and honesty in all actions and decisions.
Code of Conduct:
Adherence: All Members shall adhere to GCRI’s Code of Conduct, which outlines expected behaviors, ethical standards, and disciplinary measures for non-compliance.
Distribution: The Code of Conduct shall be distributed to all Members upon their joining GCRI and be made readily available for reference.
Updates: The Code of Conduct shall be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect evolving ethical standards and practices.
Ethical Training:
Sessions: GCRI shall organize regular ethical training sessions for all Members to reinforce ethical standards and practices.
Content: Training shall cover topics such as conflict of interest, confidentiality, transparency, and professional conduct.
Participation: Participation in these sessions shall be mandatory for all Members, and attendance records shall be maintained.
7.1.2 Respect for Rights
Human Rights Compliance:
Standards: GCRI shall ensure that all activities comply with international human rights standards.
Audits: Regular human rights compliance audits shall be conducted to ensure adherence to these standards.
Reporting: Any breaches of human rights standards shall be reported immediately, and corrective actions shall be taken.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Promotion: GCRI shall promote cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness in all its activities.
Training: Regular training sessions on cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness shall be provided to all Members.
Policies: Policies promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion shall be implemented and enforced.
7.2 Legal Compliance
7.2.1 Adherence to Laws
Compliance: GCRI and its Members shall ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations at global, regional, national, and local levels.
Legal Training:
Sessions: GCRI shall conduct regular training sessions on relevant legal requirements for all Members.
Content: Training shall cover areas such as data protection, intellectual property, labor laws, and environmental regulations.
Mandatory Participation: Participation in these training sessions shall be mandatory, and attendance shall be recorded.
Compliance Audits:
Periodic Audits: GCRI shall conduct periodic compliance audits to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations.
Independent Auditors: Where necessary, independent auditors shall be engaged to conduct these audits.
Reporting and Remediation: Findings from compliance audits shall be reported to the relevant governance bodies, and remediation plans shall be implemented for any identified non-compliance.
7.2.2 Risk Management
Risk Assessments:
Regular Assessments: GCRI shall conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential legal and operational risks.
Mitigation Plans: Based on the assessments, GCRI shall develop and implement risk mitigation plans.
Documentation: All risk assessments and mitigation plans shall be documented and reviewed periodically.
Crisis Management Plans:
Development: GCRI shall develop and maintain comprehensive crisis management plans to address potential emergencies and crises.
Components: Crisis management plans shall include clear roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and recovery strategies.
Training and Drills: Regular training sessions and drills shall be conducted to ensure all Members are prepared to implement the crisis management plans effectively.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Ethical and Legal Considerations section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
Publicity
8.1 Identification as a GCRI Member
Designation: Members may identify themselves as “GCRI Collaborator” or “GCRI Affiliate” and use the GCRI logo, name, and designs in public efforts.
Brand Guidelines:
Adherence: All Members shall adhere to GCRI’s brand guidelines for the usage of logos, names, and designs. The brand guidelines shall be provided to all Members and include specifications on color schemes, font styles, and placement.
Updates: The brand guidelines shall be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect any changes in GCRI’s branding strategy.
Public Representation:
Alignment: All public representations by Members must align with GCRI’s values and mission. Members are responsible for ensuring that their use of the GCRI brand does not misrepresent or harm GCRI’s reputation.
Review: Public materials that prominently feature the GCRI brand must be submitted to the Coordinator for review prior to publication.
8.2 Use of GCRI Marks
Approval Process:
Request: Members must obtain approval from the Coordinator for the use of GCRI Marks. Requests must include details on the intended use and context.
Approval: The Coordinator shall provide written approval or feedback within 10 business days of the request submission.
Usage Guidelines:
Adherence: Members must follow the guidelines for the appropriate usage of GCRI Marks in different contexts as outlined in the brand guidelines.
Prohibited Uses: Members shall not combine GCRI Marks with other trademarks or use them in any manner that could damage GCRI’s goodwill or mislead the public.
8.3 Management of GCRI Marks
Ownership: The Coordinator is the sole owner of GCRI Marks, the GCRI website, and related content. The Coordinator is responsible for protecting and managing these assets.
Licensing Agreements:
Non-Exclusive Licenses: The Coordinator may grant non-exclusive, royalty-free licenses to Members for the use of GCRI Marks. Licensing agreements shall specify the terms and conditions of use.
Renewal and Termination: Licensing agreements shall include provisions for renewal and termination, subject to performance and compliance.
Monitoring Usage:
Oversight: The Coordinator shall monitor the use of GCRI Marks to ensure compliance with the established guidelines and licensing agreements.
Enforcement: The Coordinator is authorized to enforce proper usage of GCRI Marks, including issuing cease-and-desist notices for unauthorized or improper use.
8.4 Use of Member Names and Logos
Mutual Agreement:
Consent: The Coordinator may use Members’ logos, names, and designs in GCRI-related activities, provided there is mutual agreement on such use.
Documentation: All agreements on the use of Member names and logos shall be documented in writing.
Representation Accuracy:
Integrity: The Coordinator shall ensure that the use of Members’ logos, names, and designs accurately represents their contributions and roles.
Review: Members shall have the opportunity to review and approve the context in which their logos, names, and designs are used.
8.5 Public Statements
Review Process:
Submission: Members must provide copies of press releases and other public statements to the Coordinator for review in advance.
Consistency: The Coordinator shall review these materials to ensure consistency with GCRI’s communication guidelines and messaging.
Communication Guidelines:
Adherence: All public statements must adhere to established communication guidelines, which shall be provided to all Members.
Training: The Coordinator shall offer training sessions on communication best practices and guidelines.
8.6 No Public Policy Positions
Independence:
Policy: GCRI and its Members do not take public policy positions in their capacity as GCRI Members. Members may engage in public policy activities independently, but such activities must not be attributed to GCRI.
Clarification Statements: When engaging in public policy positions independently, Members must provide clarification statements to avoid any implication that the activities are endorsed by GCRI.
8.7 No Endorsement
Non-Endorsement Clause:
Inclusion: All public communications must include a non-endorsement clause stating that GCRI does not endorse or sponsor the activities of its Members.
Format: The clause must be prominently displayed in a format specified by the Coordinator.
Implications:
Clarification: Members must ensure that their use of GCRI Marks and branding does not imply endorsement or sponsorship by the Coordinator.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Publicity section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
Relationship
9.1 Relationship of the Parties
Independence Clause:
Independence Affirmed: This Charter does not create an association, joint venture, partnership, or any other entity among Members, nor does it make them liable for each other’s acts. Each Member operates independently and is responsible for its own actions and obligations.
Documentation: Each Member shall sign an acknowledgment affirming their understanding and acceptance of this independence clause.
9.2 Responsibility for Own Actions
Autonomy in Operations:
Operational Autonomy: Each Member is solely responsible for planning, managing, and implementing its own GCRI-related activities, including budgeting, hiring, and expenses. Members must ensure their operational decisions and financial management are autonomous and in compliance with their internal policies and procedures.
Financial Management: Members must maintain accurate financial records and ensure that all expenditures related to GCRI activities are properly documented and audited as per their internal requirements.
9.3 Contracts with Other Parties
Contract Management:
Third-Party Contracts: Members may enter into contracts with third parties to carry out their responsibilities under this Charter. Members assume sole responsibility for these contracts, including their negotiation, execution, and performance.
Accountability: Members must establish contract management practices to ensure accountability and compliance. This includes maintaining records of all contracts, monitoring performance, and ensuring all contractual obligations are met.
9.4 Responsibility for Local Affiliates
Compliance Monitoring:
Monitoring and Support: Collaborators are responsible for ensuring that Affiliates comply with Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), this Charter, and applicable grant agreements. Regular monitoring and support must be provided to ensure Affiliates meet compliance requirements.
Reporting: Collaborators must report any compliance issues identified with Affiliates to the GCRI governance bodies and take appropriate corrective actions.
9.5 Coordinator’s Departure
Succession Planning:
Succession Plan: If the Coordinator ceases to serve, GCRI must incorporate or cease to exist. The Coordinator must develop and maintain a comprehensive succession plan to ensure continuity. This plan shall identify potential successors and outline the process for transferring GCRI Marks, contracts, and assets to an appropriate recipient.
Asset Transfer: The Coordinator shall ensure that all GCRI Marks, contracts, and assets are transferred in accordance with the succession plan, maintaining continuity and stability in GCRI operations.
9.6 Limitation of Liability
Liability Clause:
Limitation of Liability: The Coordinator is not liable for actions taken or omitted in connection with this Charter or GCRI activities, except for cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. This limitation of liability must be included in all agreements and communications related to GCRI activities.
Exclusions: The limitation of liability does not apply in cases where there is clear evidence of gross negligence or willful misconduct by the Coordinator.
9.7 Indemnification
Indemnification Agreement:
Mutual Indemnification: Members agree to indemnify and hold each other harmless against claims, liabilities, and expenses arising from their GCRI activities, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. An indemnification agreement shall be established among Members outlining the terms and conditions of this mutual indemnification.
Scope: The indemnification covers legal fees, settlements, and any other costs incurred in defending against claims related to GCRI activities.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this Relationship section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Amendments: This section may be amended by a 75% vote of the GCRI Members. Proposed amendments shall be circulated to all Members at least one month before the voting date. The Coordinator may amend procedural details without requiring a vote, provided such amendments are communicated promptly to all Members.
General Provisions
10.1 Legal Effect
Binding Agreement:
Signature Requirement: This Charter is legally binding on all Members, including the Coordinator. Each Member must sign and acknowledge the binding nature of the Charter upon joining GCRI.
Acknowledgment: A formal acknowledgment form shall be provided and signed by each Member, confirming their understanding and acceptance of the Charter's terms and conditions.
Record Keeping: Signed acknowledgments shall be retained in the GCRI records for verification and compliance purposes.
10.2 Amendments
Amendment Process:
Proposal Submission: Proposed amendments to the Charter must be submitted in writing to the Coordinator at least two months before the intended voting date. The proposal should include the rationale and detailed text of the proposed amendment.
Circulation and Review: The Coordinator shall circulate the proposed amendments to all Members within one week of receipt, allowing for a review and feedback period.
Voting: The Charter may be amended by a 75% vote of all Members. The voting process may be conducted electronically or in person at a designated meeting. Votes shall be recorded and maintained in GCRI’s official records.
Approval and Implementation: Upon approval, the amended Charter shall be distributed to all Members and take effect immediately unless otherwise specified in the amendment.
Coordinator’s Authority:
Exhibits: The Coordinator may amend exhibits related to procedural or operational details without requiring a full Member vote. Such amendments must be communicated promptly to all Members and must not conflict with the main Charter provisions.
10.3 Governing Law
Jurisdiction Clause:
Applicable Law: This Charter and any disputes arising under or in connection with it shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Canada.
Jurisdiction: The parties agree that the courts of Canada shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any disputes arising out of or in connection with this Charter.
Legal Venue: Any legal actions or proceedings related to this Charter shall be brought in the courts located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
10.4 Counterparts
Execution in Counterparts:
Multiple Copies: This Charter may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
Effective Delivery: Fax or PDF transmission of executed counterparts shall constitute effective delivery and execution of this Charter.
Documentation: Copies of the executed counterparts shall be retained by the Coordinator and made available to all Members upon request.
Enforcement and Amendments
Compliance: All Members are required to comply with the provisions outlined in this General Provisions section. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the GCRI governance bodies.
Review and Updates: This section shall be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains current and effective. Any necessary updates shall be made in accordance with the established amendment process.
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