1st Threshold – mobilizing rural people to organize in groups and higher-level DROs

Answers to questions of how to mobilize, over what and when, in order to join and federate DROs, influence organizational and economic sustainability. DRO members’ sense of ownership may be undermined when, during the federation process, important decisions are taken by supporting development agents rather than the DRO members themselves. Other aspects of mobilization include the extent to which it enables social inclusion and gender equality and how it relates to cultural and religious diversity. A more systematic approach, based on informed and transparent decisions by supporting NGOs in mobilizing rural people into DROs, can enhance performance.