[chapter-delegates] ISOC SOP

[Patrick Vande Walle]

Here are 2 things which missing from the SOP.

One is subsidiarity, ie matters should  be dealt with at the most 
efficient level.  Public policy at the national level should really be 
the task of the local chapter.  Policy matters at regional level should 
be the task of a group of  chapters on a regional  basis.
 
I heard voices at BoT meetings saying that chapters may not be the best 
vehicle for this, because they are not  professional enough, etc... 
Rather,  the attitude is instead to have "Reston" or one of its 
delegates do the job.  This could be seen as a form of colonialist 
arrogance.  We should empower the locals chapters to represent ISOC 
values, but there does not seem to be a willingness to educate chapters 
about the do's and don't's of public policy.

So my point  two here is to suggest ISOC to set up an intrernal 
education program targeted at chapters to learn and share experiences on 
issues regarding public policy and PR in general.  I very much regret to 
hear that chapters are not being trusted, while at the same time ISOC 
has no program to help them become more professional. 

Patrick