ARTICLE 4: MEMBERSHIP

Section 1: Eligibility

Membership in the Global Union of Change-makers (GUC) is open to individuals and organizations who align with the union’s vision, mission, and core values. Criteria include:

Age Requirement: General membership is open to youth aged 18 to 45 years, however, Other individuals who do not meets that age range  may also be considered, provided they are passionate, experienced, and like-minded.

Global Inclusion: Membership is open to individuals from all countries regardless of gender, race, religion, nationality, disability, or background.

Commitment: Members must actively engage in social change, innovation, or community leadership.

> Note: Founding Members shall be granted lifelong honorary and active status, regardless of age, and will continue to contribute to leadership, strategic direction, and intergenerational mentorship within the organization.

Section 2: Types of Membership

1. General Members

Individuals who join the union to learn, grow, and participate in activities, training, and volunteerism.

2. National Volunteers

Active youth who contribute to projects, programs, and advocacy in their respective countries.

3. Country Representatives

Designated youth leaders serving as national focal points and link between the global network and local context.

4. National Directors

Senior national leaders coordinating all national activities, projects, and institutional growth.

5. Thematic or Regional Coordinators

Appointed experts or leaders focused on specific issues (e.g., climate, AI, health) or regional clusters (e.g., West Africa, South Asia, America).

6. Organizational Partners / Affiliate Institutions

Youth-led or youth-serving organizations officially affiliated with GUC for collaboration, mutual support, and joint action.

7. Founding Members

The original members who initiated the formation of GUC after the 2025 World Bank Group Youth Summit.

Founding Members retain permanent active status five years after the expiration of their mandate, even if they surpass the standard youth age range.

They shall serve as senior advisors, co-decision makers, and mentors, ensuring inter-generational learning and leadership continuity.

8. Honorary and Advisory Members

Eminent individuals or partners invited for their strategic insight, mentorship, or technical support.

Section 3: Rights of Members

Members are entitled to:

Participate in programs, campaigns, and project opportunities.

Access capacity-building, leadership, and collaboration platforms.

Vote, nominate, and run for leadership (as applicable).

Receive recognition for contributions and impact.

Propose new ideas, projects, or initiatives for GUC endorsement.

Founding Members shall have the ongoing right to participate in high-level decision-making, even beyond the age of 45.

Section 4: Duties of Members

Members are expected to:

Uphold and live by GUC’s Constitution and values.

Participate in organizational activities and maintain regular engagement.

Foster respectful, collaborative, and inclusive environments.

Represent GUC ethically and professionally in public and online spaces.

Report misconduct and contribute to positive culture building.

Section 5: Termination of Membership

Membership may be suspended or revoked for:

• Violation of the Code of Conduct or core values.

• Extended inactivity without communication.

• Abuse of position or misrepresentation of GUC.

“Before these sanctions are implemented, defaulters will have one week to explain their actions at an extraordinary council meeting, providing evidence to support their absence.

If this period passes without a decision, a meeting of executive members will be convened to appoint others to the relevant positions”.