Membership Policy — selfdriven Foundation Co-Operative

This Policy supports the Constitution and ByLaws and explains how membership works in practice.

1. Joining the Cooperative

Eligibility:

• Any individual or organisation aligned with the mission and guiding principles may apply.

Application process:

1. Submit a membership application.
2. Provide minimum information needed for identity verification.
3. Complete onboarding/orientation before participating in votes.

The Membership Circle reviews applications and may request clarification before approval.

2. Member Participation & Contribution

Members are expected to contribute in at least one capacity, including but not limited to:

• time (meetings, projects, mentoring, governance),
• skills or expertise,
• local or technical infrastructure,
• funding or sponsorship,
• community engagement or amplification.

Contribution is recognised and recorded through:

• contribution logs, and
• project/circle documentation.

Lack of participation:

• After 12 months of no engagement, the Membership Circle may contact the member to confirm whether they wish to remain active.

3. Conduct & Behaviour

All members must:

• act in alignment with the mission and guiding principles;
• interact respectfully with others;
• support safe, inclusive participation.

Conduct concerns should be handled first within the relevant Circle.
If unresolved or serious, it may escalate to the Board of Stewards under the Conduct Review process.

Possible outcomes:

• informal resolution or mediation
• formal warning
• suspension from roles
• suspension or termination of membership (per Constitution)

4. Leaving the Cooperative

Members may resign at any time by written notice.

Upon resignation:

• the member must transfer any assets, credentials or responsibilities held on behalf of the Cooperative;
• reasonable handover assistance is expected.

Former members may reapply in the future.

5. Data & Privacy

• Members retain ownership of their identity and personal data.
• The Cooperative minimises required personal data and uses privacy-preserving identity methods where practical.
• Conduct investigations and appeals are confidential.

6. Review

This Policy is reviewed annually or when requested by the Membership Circle or Board of Stewards.