Call for Papers for the Annual Forum of Civil Society Parliamentary Network
The Civil Society Parliamentary Network (CSPN) is an initiative by the People’s Majlis and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy with the aim of enhancing engagement between the People’s Majlis and civil society organisations. In February 2025, WFD Maldives in partnership with the People's Majlis will be hosting the launching and first annual forum of CSPN.
WFD Maldives invites Civil Society Organizations to submit proposals to develop research and review papers for the CSPN annual forum. The aim of the annual forum is to provide an avenue for CSOs and People's Majlis for dialogue, consultation, enabling a more inclusive and participatory approach to policymaking.
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) Maldives is offering four grants of GBP 1,500 each to selected Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to support the development of impactful research papers for the upcoming CSPN Annual Forum. This grant aims to promote evidence-based contributions to policy discussions around significant bills and legislative issues in the Maldives.
Expression of Interest for Paper Submission
Scope and Expectations
Selected CSOs will have two months (December - January) to complete their research papers, which will be presented at the Forum to inform and engage stakeholders in constructive dialogue. One representative from each CSO is required to present the research at the Forum, with all travel and participation expenses covered separately by WFD.
Application and selection criteria
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Significance: How does the proposed research or review address critical issues? Does it align with or contribute to ongoing legislative developments or currently ongoing bills?
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Originality: The paper/research must be original and undertaken by the CSO itself. What different perspectives or ideas does it bring to the subject matter?
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Research quality: How clear and rigorous is the methodology? Are the research process and findings well-documented, transparent, and robust?
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Relevance & Impact: Does the CSO have experience in this field? To what extent has the CSO engaged with relevant stakeholders? What potential does the research have to shape or inform policy?
Details of the CSO
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Name of the representative submitting the form on behalf of the organization
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Name of the organisation
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Phone number
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Email address
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City/Island of Operation
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Policy areas that your organization focuses on:
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The below are the focus areas of the CSPN annual forum. Please select the area that your paper will be focused on. (State your area if it is beyond the areas described below)
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Mental Health
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Cyber Security and Data Protection
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Medical Negligence
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Multi-Sectoral Approach to Tackle Drug Abuse
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Inclusivity in Law-Making & Public Consultation
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Other:
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Details of Proposal
Please attach a proposal for the research or review paper according to the below guidelines.
- Title of the paper: Provide a clear and descriptive title
- Executive Summary (less than 1 page): Include a concise overview of the paper’s focus, objectives, and anticipated contributions.
- Approach and Methodology (up to 2 pages): Present and justify the proposed approach and methodology for the research or review. Be sure to outline how you will foster participation throughout the research process, anticipated timelines, and any limitations to the approach.
- Research Team and Quality Assurance (up to 3 page): Describe how the project will ensure high standards of quality assurance. Include a detailed schedule of key tasks and activities, and clearly identify a focal point along with roles and responsibilities for each team member involved.
- Financial Proposal (up to 1 page): Provide a comprehensive breakdown of costs, detailing each component to offer a transparent view of the proposed budget.
Please complete the proposal and information stated above and email it to aryj.hussain@wfd.org and aishath.hameeda@wfd.org by 5th December 2024, 10:00 AM (Maldives Time).