I. Introduction
1.1. Name and Purpose of the NGO
The NAFO Public Education Forum (hereby denoted by “NAFO-PEF”) is an organization conceptualized and founded by NAFO Fella Gavril Ducu. The purpose of NAFO-PEF is to engage in identifying and analyzing disinformation, formulating defensive strategies, and crafting proactive measures to counter and minimize its impact.
1.2. Vision and Mission Statement
In response to the pervasive disinformation, particularly emanating from the Russian Federation and its dire consequences on global stability, The NAFO Public Education Forum (NAFO-PEF) is dedicated to countering and eliminating the destructive effects of Russian anti-democratic propaganda worldwide.
Our purpose is to serve as a catalyst for change by facilitating the exchange of ideas and information, fostering innovative strategies to effectively identify, discredit, disrupt, and counter Russian disinformation. Leveraging the wealth of knowledge and practical experience within our large, dispersed, and diverse member base, NAFO is committed to developing comprehensive tools and strategies, even when adversaries are organized.
The NAFO-PEF seeks to unite international voices against Russian propaganda, amplifying NAFO's principles globally. By coordinating mass action, pointing out bad actors, and limiting their influence, the forum aims to positively impact the outcomes of the war in Ukraine for the benefit of Ukraine and the world.
Providing a platform for talented individuals, the NAFO-PEF empowers them to reach and inspire a broader international audience, countering the influence of Russia's Active Measures operations on a global scale. As a long-term initiative, the NAFO-PEF relies on member participation, patience, and focus.
Recognizing the importance of continuous education, the NAFO-PEF may seek future funding to educate new members and future Fella generations about disinformation and its global effects. Our goal is to teach Fellas and share with the world how to protect themselves from weaponized propaganda, ultimately eliminating the impact of Russian disinformation. It is sad to see how younger generations from Eastern Europe find supporting Russia ‘cool’ while older generations often pine for the ‘good old days’ of communism. These are only two examples of the deleterious influence of Russian propaganda.
The NAFO-PEF functions on a voluntary basis, with activities being non-profit in nature. While expenses will be covered to a moderate level when feasible, any accumulated monetary surplus is dedicated to supporting the charitable initiatives of United24. As part of our collective commitment, the NAFO-PEF encourages the sharing of hypotheses, knowledge, and practical experience, ensuring lessons learned from Ukraine are applied to other countries facing similar threats. Through our distributed network of Fellas, we emphasize the power of collective action to confront the challenges of disinformation and safeguard the integrity of global societies.
1.3. Core Values and Guiding Principles
At the heart of The NAFO Public Education Forum (PEF) lie a set of core values and guiding principles that define our organizational culture and guide our actions. These values serve as the moral compass steering our commitment to countering Russian disinformation and fostering a global community dedicated to the principles of truth, democracy, and peace.
1.3.1. Truth and Integrity:
We uphold truth as our paramount value. Integrity is the foundation upon which our organization is built. We are committed to providing accurate and unbiased information, fostering an environment where transparency and honesty prevail. Our dedication to truth guides our actions, ensuring that every initiative and message aligns with the highest ethical standards.
1.3.2. Collaboration and Inclusivity:
We believe in the power of collaboration and the strength that comes from diverse perspectives. The PEF welcomes individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and expertise to join forces against disinformation. Inclusivity is not just a principle; it is embedded in our organizational DNA. We actively seek partnerships and alliances, recognizing that collective action is the key to making a lasting impact.
1.3.3. Empowerment and Advocacy:
Empowering individuals to become informed and engaged contributors to society is a central tenet of our mission. We advocate for the rights of every individual to access accurate information and strive to give a voice to those who may feel marginalized. Through education and awareness, we aim to empower citizens to make informed decisions that contribute to the betterment of their communities and the world.
1.3.4. Innovation and Adaptability:
In the ever-evolving landscape of disinformation, we embrace innovation and adaptability. We are committed to staying ahead of the curve, utilizing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Our organization thrives on creative solutions and dynamic strategies to counter Russian propaganda effectively.
1.3.5. Accountability and Responsibility:
We hold ourselves accountable for the impact of our actions. Every member of the NAFO-PEF is responsible for the messages they disseminate and the initiatives they undertake. We recognize the gravity of our mission and the potential consequences of our work, and we approach our tasks with a sense of responsibility that extends beyond organizational boundaries.
1.3.6. Long-Term Commitment:
The fight against disinformation is a complex and enduring battle. We approach our mission with a long-term commitment, recognizing that sustained efforts are essential for lasting change. Patience and perseverance are integral to our approach, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our dedication to countering Russian anti-democratic propaganda over the long haul.
1.3.7. Global Citizenship:
We consider ourselves global citizens, committed to making a positive impact on a global scale. Our initiatives are designed not only to counter Russian disinformation but also to contribute to the creation of a more just, peaceful, and democratic world. Through our actions, we aspire to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for individuals and organizations worldwide.
These core values and guiding principles collectively shape the ethos of the NAFO-PEF, driving us toward our overarching goal of eliminating the impact of Russian disinformation and fostering a world where truth and democracy prevail.
1.4. Definitions
1.5. Registered Address and Legal Status
II. Membership
2.1. Categories of Membership
2.2. Eligibility and Admission
2.3. Rights and Responsibilities of Members
2.4. Membership Fees and Dues
2.5. Termination of Membership
III. Organizational Structure
3.1. General Assembly (or similar body)
The General Assembly is the supreme authority of our non-profit organization, comprising all members who serve as volunteers. This assembly will convene at regular intervals to discuss and decide upon matters of strategic importance, major policy changes, and the election of key leadership positions. It serves as the collective voice of our organization, ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to our mission.
3.2. Board of Directors - “The Council of Five”
The Board of Directors, hereby denoted by “The Council of Five” is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organization. Comprising experienced and dedicated individuals, this body will make crucial decisions, approve budgets, and oversee the implementation of policies. The board will work collaboratively to uphold the values and objectives of the organization, guiding it towards sustained success and impact.
The Council of Five will function for 1 year after which its members will be replaced by other fellas through a process of ongoing recruitment, training, and recognition of skills. The incoming board will be selected by the outgoing board.
3.3. Executive Committee
The Executive Committee acts as the operational arm of the Board of Directors, responsible for the day-to-day management and execution of organizational initiatives. Comprising key leaders and decision-makers, this committee will work closely with staff, volunteers, and external partners to ensure the effective implementation of programs and the achievement of our mission.
The Executive Committee consists of the leaders of each specialized committee. The Executive Committee will function for 6 months after which its members will be replaced by other fellas through a process of ongoing recruitment, training, and recognition of skills. The new Executive Committee will be selected by the currently acting Council of Five.
3.3.1 Treasury/Finance Department:
This department is responsible for overseeing the financial health of the organization. It manages budgets, financial reporting, fundraising, and ensures compliance with financial regulations. The Treasury/Finance Department reports to the Executive Committee.
3.4. Committees and Working Groups
The NAFO Education Forum operates through specialized committees and working groups, each dedicated to specific areas of focus. These groups include:
- Think Tank Committee: Comprising individuals with expertise in law, history, government, politics, military, and foreign relations, this group conducts research, identifies strategies against Russian propaganda, and formulates counter-information directions. They maintain contacts for insider information and strategize target audience selection.
- Activism Committee: Tasked with crafting short, impactful messages through various mediums, this group focuses on memes, infographics, slogans, and campaigns. They manage dissemination channels, maintain contacts worldwide, and coordinate actions with effective messaging groups.
- Education Committee: This group produces long-form content such as articles, podcasts, and outreach programs to schools, universities, and major news outlets. It is composed of historians, writers, teachers, academics, service members, volunteers, and artists, projecting morality, respectability, and professionalism. The net income from book sales, if any, will add to the funds available to the Treasury.
- Technology Committee: Offering technical assistance to the organization, this group educates members on tools, ensures privacy/anonymity, and provides support for collaborative initiatives. They maintain contact with individuals skilled in social media algorithms, mathematics, statistics, and AI.
3.5. Staff and Volunteers
All members of our organization serve voluntarily, dedicating their time and skills to further our mission. Staff members, if any, will work under the guidance of the Executive Committee to support the operational needs of the organization. Volunteers, organized into committees and working groups, drive the core activities and initiatives of the organization. Their dedication and expertise contribute to the success of our collective efforts.
The Activism Committee and the Technology Committee will have three leaders, one for each time zone: Asia, Europe/Africa, and the Americas, so that we are operating continuously with the worldwide news and we minimize our time of response. The leaders will work collaboratively and overlap their functions as needed.
IV. Governance and Decision-Making
4.1. Meetings and Quorum Requirements
General Assembly meetings shall convene at least twice a year. Additional meetings may be called as deemed necessary. The agenda for the General Assembly meeting, including proposed resolutions and key discussion points, shall be circulated to participants at least a week in advance. A quorum, constituting 50% of the total membership, must be present for the meeting to be considered valid. Decisions requiring member approval shall be subject to the established quorum.
Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held monthly, with the option for special sessions as determined by the Board. The agenda for Board meetings, prepared by the Secretary in consultation with the Founder, shall be distributed to Directors prior to the scheduled meeting. A quorum, consisting of 80% of the total Directors, is required for the meeting to proceed. The Board may not make decisions in the absence of the established quorum.
The Executive Committee shall convene monthly or as required to address immediate organizational matters. The Committee leader, in consultation with committee members, shall set the agenda for Executive Committee meetings. Urgent matters may be added to the agenda at the discretion of the leader.
Committee meetings, Special meetings
4.2. Voting Procedures
4.3. Conflict of Interest Policies
4.4. Financial and Administrative Rules
V. Programs and Activities
5.1. Areas of Focus and Intervention**
The NAFO-PEF programs and activities are strategically organized into key areas of focus and intervention, driven by the unique capabilities of our specialized committees:
5.1.1 Think Tank:
The Think Tank focuses on in-depth research and the identification of new strategies to counter Russian propaganda. This group explores evolving landscapes of disinformation, verifies facts, and proposes directions for counter-information. With expertise in law, history, government, politics, military, and foreign relations, the Think Tank contributes to the formulation of overarching strategies for the organization.
5.1.2 Activism:
The Activism group crafts short, impactful messages, utilizing memes, infographics, slogans, calls to action, and more. They manage dissemination channels, coordinate campaigns, and maintain a global network of contacts. This group plays a crucial role in countering disinformation through creative and timely messaging, engaging advertisers, graphic designers, and individuals skilled in effective communication.
5.1.3 Education:
The Education group is dedicated to crafting long-form messages through articles, podcasts, discussions, and outreach programs. Comprising historians, writers, teachers, academics, service members, and artists, this group projects morality, respectability, and professionalism. Their efforts contribute to informing and educating diverse audiences on the complexities of Russian disinformation.
5.1.4 Technology:
The Technology group provides technical assistance and educates members about tools and their limitations concerning anonymity and privacy. This group supports various initiatives requiring collaborative work, dissemination of electronic information, and database management. By maintaining contact with experts in social media algorithms, mathematics, statistics, and AI, they ensure the effective utilization of technology in countering disinformation.
5.2. Project Development and Implementation
Our organization focuses on developing and implementing impactful projects aligned with our mission:
5.2.1 Daily Action Lists:
The Activism group develops and maintains a daily list of actions for members, facilitating engagement and coordinated efforts against disinformation.
5.2.2 Educational Outreach Programs:
The Education group initiates outreach programs targeting schools, universities, large companies, and major news outlets to provide a comprehensive understanding of the information war.
5.2.3 Legal Group Formation:
A legal group is created to identify and take legal action against individuals, 'journalists,' and politicians involved in disinformation, ensuring accountability.
5.3. Monitoring and Evaluation
To measure the effectiveness of our initiatives and adapt strategies accordingly, the NAFO-PEF implements a robust monitoring and evaluation framework:
5.3.1 Metrics for Dissemination:
The Activism group employs metrics to assess the reach and impact of disseminated materials, evaluating their effectiveness in countering disinformation.
5.3.2 Educational Impact Assessment:
The Education group monitors the impact of outreach programs on audiences, ensuring the delivery of accurate and valuable information.
5.3.3 Legal Action Outcomes:
The Legal Group monitors outcomes of legal actions, assessing their success in limiting the influence of individuals involved in disinformation.
5.4. Partnerships and Collaborations
NAFO-PEF actively seeks partnerships and collaborations to amplify its impact:
5.4.1 Global Networks:
The Think Tank maintains an active list of contacts worldwide, including insiders from governments and NGOs, fostering collaboration for information exchange.
5.4.2 Strategic Alliances:
The Activism group collaborates with ad-hoc groups, such as the NAFO Commandos and the Daily Fella, ensuring coordinated messaging and effective counter-information campaigns.
5.4.3 Technology Collaboration:
The Technology group collaborates with experts in social media algorithms, mathematics, statistics, and AI, staying at the forefront of technological advancements to counter disinformation effectively
5.5 Target Audience
5.5.1 Less Educated Voters:
NAFO-PEF seeks to address vulnerability to disinformation. This activity may require simplified messaging for accessibility.
5.5.2 Educated Individuals Not Paying Enough Attention:
NAFO-PEF seeks to raise awareness among a potentially influential group. May require innovative strategies to capture attention.
5.5.3 Young People Struggling with Current Events:
NAFO-PEF targets a demographic with potential for long-term impact which will require dynamic and engaging content.
5.5.4 Media Outlets Prioritizing Profit Over Truth:
Advocating for responsible journalism. May face resistance from profit-oriented outlets.
5.5.5 Businesses and Governments:
Influencing decision-makers. May encounter resistance due to conflicting interests.
5.5.6 Up-and-Coming Politicians:
Shaping future leaders requires strategic communication to gain their attention.
5.5.7 Individuals Seeking Information on Russia's Aggressions:
Providing valuable knowledge. Cons: May need tailored messaging to address varied interests.
5.6 Direct Goals and Challenges
5.6.1 Educating Voters:
Fostering an informed electorate may face challenges in breaking through existing misinformation.
5.6.2 Giving a Voice to Society Members:
Empowering those previously marginalized. Requires sustained efforts to ensure representation.
5.6.3 Directly Combating Russian Disinfo:
Actively countering disinformation may face resistance from adversaries.
5.6.4 Providing a History of NAFO and the Information War:
Preserving organizational legacy may require effective storytelling for broader appeal.
5.6.5 Shaping the Future Political Conversation Landscape:
Influencing discourse requires long-term commitment and strategic messaging.
5.6.7 Amplifying NAFO Voices and Views:
Expanding organizational influence may require continual effort to break through noise.
5.6.8 Identifying and Limiting Disinfo Influencers:
Mitigating disinformation sources. may face legal and ethical challenges.
5.6.9 Facilitating Global Collaboration Against Russian Propaganda:
Building a united front requires effective coordination among diverse entities.
5.6.10 Sharing Hypotheses and Practical Experience:
Strengthening collective knowledge may face challenges in information sharing.
5.6.11 Running on a Voluntary Basis:
Ensuring commitment from dedicated individuals may face challenges in sustaining long-term voluntary efforts.
5.6.12 Educating New Members and Future Generations:
Ensuring organizational continuity may require additional resources for educational initiatives.
5.6.13 Eliminating the Impact of Russian Disinfo:
Contributing to a disinformation-free world.
5.6.14 Promoting Collective Action Through Distributed Networks:
Leveraging collective strength requires effective coordination
