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PREAMBLE
ARTICLE 1: NAME, HEAD OFFICE, AND LEGAL STATUS
ARTICLE 2: VISION AND MISSION
ARTICLE 3: OBJECTIVES
  1. Foster a network of conflict, peace, dispute resolution and security experts across Africa to strengthen regional collaboration.
  2. Establish platforms for professional exchange, knowledge sharing, and networking.
  3. Develop specialised training programmes to enhance members’ skills and capacities.
  4. Conduct and disseminate research on conflict affected countries, dispute resolution, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and security.
  5. Advocate for policies that promote sustainable peace, dispute resolution and security in Africa.
  6. Facilitate partnerships with governments, civil society, international organizations, and academic institutions.
  7. Promote professionalism, ethical standards, and the accreditation of practitioners in the field.
  8. Offer policy recommendations on dispute resolution, conflict reduction, peace mechanisms, and security in Africa.
  9. Promote the adoption of ethical standards and a code of conduct for practitioners within the field.
ARTICLE 4: CORE VALUES

ACPSEA shall operate under the following core values:

  1. Professionalism: Upholding the highest standards of practice and expertise.
  2. Collaboration: Encouraging teamwork and partnerships.
  3. Integrity: Ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical behavior.
  4. Inclusivity: Embracing diversity and cultural sensitivity.
  5. African-led Solutions: Prioritizing innovative, homegrown approaches to challenges.
ARTICLE 5: MEMBERSHIP

5.3 Area of Practice

5.4 Rights and Responsibilities:

  1. One-Time Induction Fee: All new members are required to pay a one-time induction fee upon joining ACPSEA.
  2. Annual Membership Dues: Members shall pay annual dues as determined by the Executive Council in line with Article 12.
  3. Periodic Review: The Executive Council will periodically review membership fees to align with operational needs and ensure sustainability.

5.6 Benefits of Joining ACPSEA

  1. Professional Recognition: Membership in ACPSEA provides official recognition as a qualified professional in Conflict, Peace, and Security. Being part of a reputable association enhances credibility and establishes you as a recognised expert in the field, increasing opportunities for professional engagements and leadership roles.
    1. Referrals for Career and Consulting Opportunities: ACPSEA may connect its members with relevant job openings, consulting assignments, and fieldwork opportunities. Whether in mediation, security advisory, policy development, or peacebuilding, members may receive priority referrals to institutions, organizations, and agencies seeking experts in the field.
    1. Professional References for Career Advancement: As a recognised member, you gain access to credible professional references that support career advancements, grant applications, and employment prospects. ACPSEA provides official endorsements that strengthen your profile for both local and international opportunities.
    1. Recommendations for Professional Appointments: ACPSEA recommends outstanding members for leadership roles, consultancy positions, and advisory engagements in government, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies. Your expertise and contributions to the field can earn you direct recommendations for strategic roles.
    1. Capacity Development and Continuous Learning: Members benefit from exclusive training programmes, workshops, and certification courses designed to enhance their skills and knowledge. ACPSEA provides access to specialized training in negotiation, mediation, arbitration, security strategy, and peacebuilding to ensure continuous professional growth.
    1. Networking with Experts and Institutions: Joining ACPSEA connects you to a diverse network of professionals, policymakers, and institutions in Conflict, Peace, and Security. Through conferences, seminars, and collaborative projects, members can engage with like-minded experts, build meaningful partnerships, and gain insights from experienced practitioners.
    1. Career Growth and Leadership Development: ACPSEA offers structured pathways for career progression, from associate membership to fellow membership, allowing professionals to achieve higher recognition as they gain experience. Leadership development programmes, mentorship opportunities, and professional branding support help members accelerate their careers.
ARTICLE 6: GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

6.1 The General Assembly: The General Assembly is the highest decision-making body, comprising all members. It shall:

  1. Approve annual reports, budgets, and financial statements.
  2. Elect members of the Executive Council.
  3. Amend the Constitution.
  4. Decide on key issues affecting ACPSEA.

6.2 The Executive Council:

6.2.1 Composition: The Executive Council shall manage ACPSEA’s day-to-day operations and consist of:

  1. Founder
  2. President
  3. Vice President
  4. Secretary-General
  5. Registrar
  6. Head of Party
  7. Finance Officer
  8. Council Leaders (Leads and Secretaries)
  9. Country Coordinators

6.2.2 Responsibilities and Powers of the Executive Council:

The Executive Council shall be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of ACPSEA, including the following duties:

  1. Implement the mission, vision, and objectives of ACPSEA to promote conflict resolution, peace, and security.
  2. Oversee and manage the day-to-day affairs of ACPSEA, ensuring smooth operations and the fulfillment of its mandate.
  3. Perform all functions and duties as conferred by the constitution and governing framework of ACPSEA.
  4. Serve as the official representatives of ACPSEA, acting as its principal officers in engagements with stakeholders, partners, and institutions.
  5. Review and approve membership applications, ensuring adherence to ACPSEA’s eligibility criteria and ethical standards.
  6. Review and amend by-laws as necessary, applying sanctions where appropriate to maintain organizational integrity and discipline.
  7. Execute any additional responsibilities delegated by the General Assembly of ACPSEA.
  8. Establish committees, councils, and national chapters in various countries to enhance ACPSEA’s reach and effectiveness.
  9. Facilitate partnerships, collaborations, and engagements with governmental, non-governmental, and international bodies to advance ACPSEA’s mission.
  10. Ensure financial oversight, sustainability, and accountability in line with ACPSEA’s financial policies and governance structures.
  11. Develop and implement policies and programmes that enhance the professional growth and impact of ACPSEA members.

6.3 Election of Officers of ACPSEA

6.3.1 Eligibility for Election:

  1. Candidates for office must be active members of ACPSEA in good standing, having fulfilled all membership obligations, including financial commitments.
    1. Candidates must demonstrate commitment to the objectives and mission of the association.
    1. Additional eligibility criteria for specific offices may be determined by the Executive Council through the Election committee appointed by the Executive Council and communicated to members before the election.

6.3.2 Election Procedure:

  1. Elections shall be conducted during the General Assembly or an Extraordinary General Meeting convened for that purpose.
    1. The Executive Council shall appoint an Electoral Committee to oversee the election process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and compliance with the association’s constitution.
    1. The Electoral Committee shall publish a timeline for nominations, vetting, campaigning, and voting.
    1. Voting shall be conducted by secret ballot unless otherwise determined by the General Assembly.

6.3.3 Term of Office:

  • Elected officers shall serve a term of five (5) years and shall be eligible for re-election for another term.

6.3.4 Vacancies:

  • In the event of a vacancy, the Executive Council may appoint an interim officer until the next General Assembly, where elections shall be held to fill the position.

6.3.5 Disputes and Appeals on Elections:

  1. Any disputes arising from the election process shall be submitted in writing to the Electoral Committee within seven (7) days after the election.
    1. The Electoral Committee shall review and resolve disputes in consultation with the Executive Council.

6.3.6 Code of Conduct on Election:

  1. All candidates and members shall uphold the principles of integrity, respect, and professionalism throughout the election process.
    1. Any breaches of the election code of conduct may result in disqualification or other disciplinary actions as determined by the Electoral Committee.

6.4 Portfolios: The Portfolio of the Executive Council Members are:

6.4.1 Founder:

  1. Advises the Executive Council to shape the vision of the association as provided for in Article 11.
  2. Serves as a key resource on the association’s founding principles and goals.
  3. Provides guidance for maintaining the integrity of the association’s mission.
  4. Ensures alignment of long-term goals with the founding vision.
  5. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.2 President:

  1. Provides strategic leadership to guide ACPSEA’s activities and initiatives.
  2. Oversees the implementation of the association’s programmes and projects.
  3. Represents ACPSEA in official capacities and fosters external partnerships.
  4. Chairs meetings of the Executive Council and General Assembly.
  5. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.3 Vice President

  1. Assist the president to provide strategic leadership to guide ACPSEA activities and Initiatives
  2. Chair the disciplinary committee
  3. Act in the absence of the President.
  4. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.4 Secretary-General:

  1. Manages the Secretariat to ensure effective execution of administrative functions.
  2. Oversees the implementation of decisions made by the General Assembly and Executive Council.
  3. Maintains records and ensures compliance with ACPSEA’s policies.
  4. Facilitates communication and coordination among members and stakeholders.
  5. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.5 Registrar:

  1. The Registrar shall be appointed by the Executive Council.
  2. Handles membership registration, renewal, and maintenance of records.
  3. Ensures adherence to professional standards by members.
  4. Coordinates the accreditation and certification of members.
  5. Manages the development and enforcement of the Code of Ethics.
  6. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.6 Finance Officer:

  1. The finance officer shall be appointed by the Executive Council.
  2. Oversees the financial management and planning of ACPSEA.
  3. Prepares and presents annual budgets and financial reports.
  4. Ensures transparency and accountability in the use of funds.
  5. Coordinates fundraising and financial resource mobilization efforts.
  6. Performs any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.7 Head of Party

  1. Leads the planning, coordination, and execution of ACPSEA’s programmes, conferences, and events.
  2. Coordinates internal committees and working groups to drive ACPSEA’s initiatives.
  3. Works with the finance team to mobilize resources, secure funding, and manage budgets for ACPSEA activities.
  4. Performs any other duties assigned by the Executive Council.

6.4.8 Council Leaders and Secretaries (Conflict, Peace, and Security Councils):

  1. Lead their respective councils to drive research, development, and innovation.
  2. Advise the Executive Council on current trends and challenges in their specific areas.
  3. Facilitate capacity-building programmes within their thematic focus.
  4. Promote collaboration and partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
  5. Perform any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.5 Councils:
ACPSEA shall operate through specialized Councils, each serving as an advisory and research tool for the association, providing updates on current issues, proposing areas for capacity building, facilitating training, and issuing reports, journals, and development activities in the sector under the supervision of the Executive Council. The Councils are as follows:

6.5.1 Council for Conflict Experts:

  1. Focuses on conflict resolution, dispute resolution, conflict analysis, mediation, and related research.
    1. Provides updates on current conflict-related issues and dispute resolution best practices.
    1. Proposes capacity-building initiatives to enhance conflict resolution and dispute resolution skills.
    1. Facilitates training programmes in conflict, mediation and dispute resolution.
    1. Issues reports and journals on conflict trends and developments.
    1. Perform any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.5.2 Council for Peace Experts:

  1. Specialises in peacebuilding, reconciliation, and peace education.
  2. Updates the association on emerging peace issues and initiatives.
  3. Recommends areas for capacity building in peace processes and initiatives.
  4. Lead the training sessions to strengthen peacebuilding skills and peace education.
  5. Publishes reports, journals, and development activities related to peace efforts.
  6. Perform any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.5.3  Council for Security Experts:

  1. Addresses issues related security concerns and security analysis.
    1. Provides insights into ongoing security issues and challenges.
    1. Proposes capacity-building activities to improve security strategies.
    1. Facilitates training in security management and crisis response.
    1. Issues reports, journals, and development initiatives on security matters.
    1. Perform any other work assigned by the Executive Council.

6.6 Term of Office for Executive Council Members, Councils, and Committees

  1. Members of the Executive Council shall hold office pursuant to Article 6.3.3.
  2. Officers, with the exception of the Founder, Finance Officer and the Registrar shall serve for a maximum of two consecutive terms of five (5) years each.
  3. All members, regardless of their position, shall be eligible to serve on committees during their term of office.
  4. Council members shall serve concurrently with the term of the Executive Council.
  5. The terms of all Councils and Committees shall expire simultaneously with the term of the Executive Council.
  6. The Finance officer and the Registrar shall be appointed by the Executive Council for a period determined by the Executive Council.

6.7 Disciplinary Committee

  1. Responsible for handling complaints against members and other stakeholders of the association.
  2. Oversees the implementation of disciplinary actions to ensure fairness and accountability.
  3. Ensures that ethical standards and the code of conduct of the association are upheld by all members.
  4. Investigates allegations of misconduct and makes recommendations for appropriate actions to the Executive Council.
  5. Operates independently and ensures confidentiality during all disciplinary processes.
  6. Perform any other work assigned by the Executive Council.
  7. The composition shall be the Vice president (chair) and other four members appointed by the Executive Council.
  8. Decisions of the Disciplinary committee shall be made by consensus or a simple majority. In the event of a tie, the Chair shall have the casting vote.

6.8 Remuneration of Executive Council members, Council members, and Committee members:

  1. ACPSEA shall pay allowances to members of the Executive Council, Councils, and Committees who attend meetings, as determined by the Executive Council.
  2. Provisions shall be made for the transportation, food, and water of members attending meetings.
  3. Where necessary, ACPSEA shall also provide accommodation to members to facilitate their participation in meetings and related activities.
  4. These measures shall ensure the effective functioning of the association and the welfare of its members.
  5. As part of incentives for Executive Council members, they shall be exempted from paying dues during their term of office.

6.9 Meetings/General Assembly

6.9.1 Meetings of the Executive Council

  1. The Executive Council shall meet at least once every quarter.
  2. Meetings may be conducted virtually or physically, depending on convenience and need.
  3. The quorum for an Executive Council meeting shall be one-third of the members.
  4. Emergency meetings may be convened as necessary to address urgent matters for the effective management of ACPSEA.
  5. The Executive Council’s meeting shall be chaired by the President and in his absence be chaired by the Vice president and in the absence of the vice president any member elected by the remaining members to chair the said meeting.
  6. Notifications for Executive Council meetings shall be issued at least seven (7) days in advance.
  7. Decisions of the Executive Council shall be made by consensus or a simple majority. In the event of a tie, the Chair shall have the casting vote.

6.9.2 Meetings of Committees/Sub-Committees

  1. All committees and sub-committees shall determine their meeting schedules to fulfill their terms of reference effectively.
  2. The committees/sub-committees shall be chaired by Chairpersons as appointment by the Executive Council and his/her absence, any member elected by the remaining members for the said meeting.
  3. Notifications for committees/sub-committees’ meetings shall be issued at least three (3) days in advance.
  4. Decisions of committee/sub-committees shall be made by consensus or a simple majority. In the event of a tie, the Chair shall have the casting vote.

6.9.3 Meetings of Councils

  1. Specialised Councils shall meet at least once every month and may schedule additional meetings as required to advance their work.
  2. Notifications for Council meetings shall be issued at least three (3) days in advance.
  3. The Councils shall be chaired by the Council’s Leads and his/her absence, any member elected by the remaining members for the said meeting.
  4. Decisions of the Councils shall be made by consensus or a simple majority. In the event of a tie, the Chair shall have the casting vote.

6.9.4 General Assembly

  1. The General Assembly shall be held annually in the second week of August every year for a number of days as may be determined by the Executive Council.
  2. Emergency General Assemblies may be convened to address urgent or critical issues.
  3. The General Assembly shall be chaired by the President of ACPSEA and in his/her absence the Vice president.
  4. Attendance at the General Assembly is compulsory for all members.
  5. The quorum for the General Assembly shall be one-third of the members in good standing.
  6. Notifications for the General Assembly shall be issued at least Twenty-one (21) days in advance.
  7. General assembly may be conducted virtually or physically, depending on convenience and need.
  8. Decisions at the General Assembly shall be made by consensus or a simple majority. Decisions at the General Assembly can be made through a voice vote or a head count.

6.10 Appointment of Staff

  1. The Executive Council shall have the authority to appoint individuals or institutions to manage the day-to-day administration of the association, ensuring efficient operations and service delivery.
  2. Such appointments may include administrative personnel, technical experts, consultants, or service providers deemed necessary to fulfill the objectives of the association.
  3. The remuneration of appointed staff shall be determined and approved by the Executive Council, taking into account industry standards, staff roles, and responsibilities.
  4. The retention of staff shall be contingent on the financial standing of the association, with the Executive Council periodically reviewing staff contracts to align with available resources and the association’s priorities.
  5. The Executive Council shall ensure that all appointments and remuneration practices comply with relevant labour laws and promote fairness, transparency, and accountability.

6.11 National Chapters of ACPSEA

6.11.1 Establishment of Chapters: The Executive Council of ACPSEA shall create and establish national chapters in various African countries as appropriate.

6.11.2 Leadership Structure:

  1. Each national chapter shall be headed by a Country Coordinator, elected by members of the chapter.
  2. The Country Coordinator shall be supported by a Secretary and a Finance Officer, also elected by the chapter members.
  3. The officers shall serve the same term of office as the Executive Council of ACPSEA and follow the same election procedures.

6.11.3 Membership Dues of the Chapter:

  1. National chapters shall not collect membership dues from ACPSEA members.
  2. However, chapters may collect welfare dues as agreed upon by the chapter members.
  3. Welfare dues shall be used exclusively for the welfare of the chapter.

6.11.4 Welfare Management:

  1. Chapters are responsible for determining the modalities and benefits of welfare contributions for their members.
  2. All welfare-related activities must align with the welfare policy agreed upon by the chapter.

6.11.5 Reporting Obligations: National chapters shall submit a quarterly report to the Executive Council, covering membership updates and welfare matters.

6.11.6 Meetings: Each chapter shall determine its meeting schedule and modalities.

ARTICLE 7: FINANCES

7.1 Sources of Funding: ACPSEA shall derive its funding from:

  1. Membership dues.
  2. Donations, grants, and endowments.
  3. Proceeds from training, workshops, and conferences.
  4. Research and consultancy fees.

7.2 Financial Management:

  1. All funds of the association shall be managed with transparency, accountability, and integrity to ensure they are used exclusively to support ACPSEA’s objectives and activities.
  2. The Executive Council shall oversee the proper utilization of funds, ensuring alignment with the association’s mission and priorities.
  3. Annual audited financial statements shall be prepared and presented to the General Assembly for review and approval, promoting financial accountability to members.
  4. The Executive Council shall appoint a qualified and independent auditor to audit the accounts of the association annually.
  5. The auditing process shall comply with relevant financial regulations and best practices, ensuring accurate and trustworthy financial reporting.
ARTICLE 8: OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

8.1 Official Language: The official languages of ACPSEA shall be English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic to reflect the linguistic diversity of Africa.

8.2 Communication: Communication and publications may be translated into other languages as necessary to meet members’ needs.

8.3. Working language: The working language of ACPSEA shall be English.

ARTICLE 9: AMENDMENTS
  1. A Member may propose amendments to this Constitution by submitting a written request to the Secretary-General.
  2. Amendments require a two-thirds majority of members in Good Standing approval by the General Assembly.
ARTICLE 10: DISSOLUTION
  1. ACPSEA may be dissolved by a two-thirds majority vote of the General Assembly.
  2. Upon dissolution, assets shall be used to settle liabilities, with any remaining assets donated to peacebuilding or charitable organizations.
ARTICLE 11: FOUNDING MEMBER AND LIFETIME FELLOW MEMBERSHIP

11.1 Recognition of Founding Member: The Founder shall be acknowledged as a Lifetime Fellow Member.

11.2 Privileges: The Founder shall:

  1. Participate in all ACPSEA activities.
  2. Have permanent voting rights and eligibility for leadership roles.
  3. Be a permanent member of the Executive Council.
  4. The founder shall participate in workshops, webinars, conferences and General Assembly for free.

11.3 Stipend: The Founder shall receive a monthly stipend as determined by the Executive Council.

11.4 Certificate of Recognition: A certificate honouring the Founder’s contributions shall be issued.

11.5 Lifetime Tenure: The Founder’s role and membership shall continue for life, subject to this Constitution.

ARTICLE 12: RULES, REGULATIONS, AND CODE OF ETHICS

12.1 Accreditation and Licensing: All practising members must be accredited by ACPSEA, completing required training and adhering to professional standards. Licenses are renewed annually.

12.2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Members must fulfill specified CPD hours each year, including attending relevant workshops and training.

12.3 Ethics and Professional Conduct: Members shall uphold high standards, including impartiality, confidentiality, respect for human rights, and accountability. Disciplinary action will be taken against any member found in breach of these standards.

12.4 Annual Fees and License Renewal

12.4.1 Obligation to Pay Fees and Members in Good Standing:

  1. All members of ACPSEA are required to pay an annual membership fee by January 21 of each calendar year to maintain their membership status and licence.
    1. Payment of the annual fee ensures members remain in good standing and retain the rights and privileges of membership.
    1. ACPSEA shall publish members in good standing every year.

12.4.2 Members Not in Good Standing:

  1. Members who fail to pay their annual fees by the due date (January 21) shall be considered members not in good standing.
    1. Members not in good standing lose access to certain membership benefits, including voting rights, participation in decision-making, and eligibility for ACPSEA programmes and services.

12.4.3 Suspension of Membership:

12.4.4 Revocation of Membership:

12.4.5 Reinstatement of Membership:

12.4.6 Sanctions for Non-Payment:

In addition to suspension or revocation, members failing to pay their dues may face additional penalties, such as:

12.5 Reporting and Compliance: ACPSEA shall submit annual returns, including audited accounts, updated membership lists, and any changes in governance to the Registrar-General by January 31st each year

ARTICLE 13: DISPUTE RESOLUTION

13.1 Internal Mechanisms: All disputes arising within ACPSEA shall first be addressed through internal mechanisms, including negotiation and mediation, to promote amicable resolution and preserve organizational harmony.

13.2 External Mechanisms: In the event that internal processes fail to resolve the dispute, the matter may be referred to external mechanisms, such as arbitration or a court of competent jurisdiction, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

ARTICLE 14: DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

14.1 Disciplinary Procedures for Members

14.1.1 Grounds for Disciplinary Action: Members may face disciplinary action for:

14.1.2 Disciplinary Process:

14.1.3 Appeal Process:

14.2 Disciplinary Procedures for Staff

14.2.1 Grounds for Disciplinary Action: Staff may face disciplinary action for:

14.2.2 Disciplinary Process:

14.2.3 Appeal Process:

14.3 General Provisions

  1. Disciplinary actions, whether for members or staff, shall be carried out in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of the individual.
  2. All investigations and hearings shall remain confidential to protect the reputation of the parties involved and the integrity of ACPSEA.
  3. ACPSEA shall adhere to applicable laws and regulations governing disciplinary procedures.
ARTICLE 15: INTERPRETATION

15.2 Disputes over interpretation shall be resolved by the Executive Council.

15.3 Definitions of Terms:

15.4 Dispute over interpretation: Disputes over interpretation after the determination of the Executive Council shall be resolved by a Court of Competent Jurisdiction.

WITNESS THEREOF……………..

…………………Signed..………….                                         …………………Signed.………………….

Founder and President                                                                  Secretary-General

…………………………Signed……………………………….

NOTORY PUBLIC

DATE: February 03, 2026.

CONTACT INFORMATION

SCHEDULES

All members of ACPSEA are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards to promote peace, stability, and security across Africa. The following standards define the professional conduct and obligations for members:

1. Commitment to Peace and Security

  • Members shall prioritize peace, security, and human dignity in their work, focusing on constructive contributions to conflict resolution and regional stability.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Members must not engage in actions that promote or contribute to violence or unrest.

2. Professional Integrity and Honesty

  • Members shall act with honesty, transparency, and integrity in all professional dealings.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Misrepresentation of qualifications, achievements, or affiliations is strictly prohibited.

3. Objectivity and Impartiality

  • Members must remain neutral and unbiased in their professional practice, avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining objectivity.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Personal or financial biases influencing professional decisions, actions, or recommendations are prohibited.

4. Confidentiality

  • Members shall respect the confidentiality of information acquired during professional practice and disclose it only with appropriate authorization or as legally required.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information or exploiting such information for personal gain is prohibited.

5. Respect for Human Rights and Cultural Sensitivity

  • Members shall uphold and advocate for human rights and respect the cultural diversity of communities served across Africa.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Discriminatory or disrespectful actions towards individuals based on race, culture, gender, or religion are prohibited.

6. Commitment to Non-Violence

  • Members shall employ non-violent means in conflict resolution and discourage any form of violence in their professional practice.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Engagement in, support of, or promotion of violence or coercion is strictly forbidden.

7. Accountability and Transparency

  • Members are accountable to ACPSEA and the communities they serve, upholding transparency in their work.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Withholding necessary information or engaging in opaque practices that undermine accountability is not allowed.

8. Professional Boundaries and Non-Exploitation

  • Members shall maintain professional boundaries with clients, colleagues, and the public, avoiding any exploitation for personal, financial, or political gain.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Exploiting professional relationships or engaging in actions that compromise ethical standards is forbidden.

9. Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

  • Members shall engage in CPD to stay updated with current practices, knowledge, and ethical standards in conflict, peace, and security.
  • Prohibited Conduct: Failing to meet CPD requirements or falsifying records of professional development activities is prohibited.
SCHEDULE 2

BY-LAW: SANCTIONS FOR BREACH OF ETHICAL STANDARDS

ACPSEA is committed to upholding ethical conduct among its members. Violations of the above standards are subject to disciplinary action by the Disciplinary Committee, with sanctions depending on the severity and frequency of the misconduct. Sanctions may include:

1. Warning or Reprimand

  • Applicability: Minor infractions or first-time offenses where misconduct does not cause significant harm.
  • Description: A written warning or reprimand will be issued, reminding the member of ACPSEA’s ethical standards and required corrective action.

2. Temporary Suspension of Membership and License

  • Applicability: Repeated minor infractions, moderate breaches, or cases where corrective action was ignored.
  • Description: The member’s membership and practicing license may be suspended for a defined period, typically three to six months, during which the member may not represent ACPSEA or engage in activities under its name.

3. Mandatory Remedial Training

  • Applicability: Cases where the breach is due to a lack of understanding or knowledge of ethical standards or practices.
  • Description: The member must complete additional training or CPD courses within a set timeframe to address the area of concern.

4. Permanent Expulsion and Revocation of License

  • Applicability: Severe ethical breaches, criminal actions, or repeated failure to uphold ACPSEA standards after prior sanctions.
  • Description: The member will be permanently expelled from ACPSEA, and their practicing license will be revoked, preventing them from practicing under ACPSEA’s recognition.

5. Legal Action and Reporting to Authorities

  • Applicability: Misconduct involving criminal actions, such as fraud, violence, or exploitation, which violates the law.
  • Description: The matter will be reported to the relevant legal authorities for further investigation, and ACPSEA may pursue legal action to safeguard its integrity and the communities it serves.

6. Appeal Process

  • Rights of Members: Members who face disciplinary action have the right to appeal to the Executive Council within 30 days of the decision. The Executive Council will review the case, and if necessary, the member may further appeal to the Court of Appeal for final adjudication.
SCHEDULE 3

BY-LAW: MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES AND ELIGIBILITY

ACPSEA offers several categories of membership based on qualifications, expertise, and experience:

  1. Ordinary/Senior Membership
    • Eligibility: Open to individuals who are qualified professionals with significant expertise or experience in dispute resolution, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, or security.
    • Requirements:
      • Professional qualifications in a relevant field.
      • With the requisite training or At least two years or more of practical experience in conflict, peace, or security work as enshrined in the constitution or as may be determined by the Executive Council.
      • Commitment to ACPSEA’s mission, core values, and ethical standards.
  2. Associate Membership
    • Eligibility: Open to students, trainees, or individuals interested in the field of conflict, peace, or security but who may not yet meet the full requirements for ordinary membership.
    • Requirements:
      • Enrollment in or recent completion of a relevant academic programmes or training course.
      • Demonstrated interest in contributing to ACPSEA’s objectives and values.
  3. Institutional Membership
    • Eligibility: Open to organizations and institutions actively involved in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, training, or security efforts in Africa.
    • Requirements:
      • Proof of the institution’s commitment to ACPSEA’s objectives and values.
      • Registration as a recognised organization or institution.
  4. Fellow Membership
    • Requirements:
      • Significant achievements and contributions in the field, with at least 10 years of experience.
      • Recognition by peers or relevant institutions.
SCHEDULE 4

BY LAW: MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS

The following steps outline how to become a member of ACPSEA:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Select Membership Category

  • Review the membership categories and eligibility criteria to determine the most suitable membership type.
  • Ensure that you meet the educational, professional, and ethical standards as outlined by ACPSEA.

Step 2: Submit Application

  • Complete the ACPSEA Membership Application Form, available through the ACPSEA website or contact the Registrar at ACPSEA’s secretariat.
  • Submit the following documents with your application:
    • Copy of professional or academic qualifications.
    • CV detailing relevant experience.
    • Endorsement letters or references (for Ordinary, Senior, Institution and Fellow Membership).
    • Statement of commitment to ACPSEA’s mission, values, and ethical standards.

Step 3: Application Review

  • The Registrar will review applications to ensure all eligibility criteria are met.
  • The Executive Council may conduct an interview with applicants to assess their commitment to ACPSEA’s ethical standards and their alignment with the association’s values.

Step 4: Accreditation and Licensing

  • For Ordinary, Senior and Fellow Members: Upon approval, members will receive an ACPSEA License to practice, contingent on adherence to ACPSEA’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements and payment of the annual subscription fee.
  • For Associate Members: A membership certificate will be issued, but a license to practice may require additional training and qualifications.

Step 5: Orientation and Induction

  • New members must complete a mandatory orientation and induction programmes to familiarize them with ACPSEA’s core values, ethical standards, and code of conduct.
  • New members will sign the Code of Ethics as part of their commitment to uphold ACPSEA’s standards.
SCHEDULE 5

CONTACT INFORMATION

SCHEDULE 6

About Us

The Association of Conflict, Peace and Security Experts in Africa (ACPSEA) is a continental professional body dedicated to advancing expertise, research, and practice in conflict management, peacebuilding, dispute resolution, and security studies across Africa.

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Location: CY 175,
Pretoria St, Poakuase-Amanfrom,
Accra
GPS: GW – 0164 – 3303

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