Granting observer status

Acquiring right to observe proceedings
Gaining observer role

Description

Granting observer status involves formally allowing non-member entities, such as organizations or states, to participate in meetings and activities of a body without voting rights. This strategy facilitates information exchange, transparency, and collaboration, enabling observers to contribute expertise and perspectives. It remedies exclusion, fosters dialogue, and supports informed decision-making, while maintaining the integrity of membership privileges. Observer status is often used to build trust, encourage cooperation, and prepare entities for potential future membership.

Implementation

Friends of the Earth Scotland is using its observer status at the International Maritime Organization to push for a tanker ban in the Minch Passage (the narrow passage between mainland Scotland and the outer Hebrides) and influence in other ways policy and practices which may relate to oil spills and accidents.