WASPA - Structure tabled at the founding meeting held on 26 August 2004
1. Introduction
WASPA's Constitution provides for a Management Committee, which has defined responsibilities and duties. In addition, the Constitution provides for the establishment of other committees (see section 15).
This document reviews the functions of the Management Committee and the other two proposed committees.
2. Management Committee (Mancom)
Appointment
The Management Committee (Mancom) is elected annually by WASPA's members at the association's annual general meeting.
Structure
Mancom consists of seven persons, including a Chairperson (or two joint-Chairs) and a Treasurer.
Responsibilities
The specific duties of Mancom, as defined in the Constitution include:
- The formation and dissolution of other committees;
- Determining membership categories and membership fees (in consultation with WASPA's general membership);
- Approving all membership applications;
- Revocation of membership of any member who fails to pay due membership fees or who is in breach of WASPA's code of conduct;
- Issuing press statements
- Calling general and special meetings
- Managing WASPA's finances and affairs
It is suggested that in addition, Mancom take responsibility for the follow area:
- Monitoring relevant regulatory developments
- Lobbying policy-makers and regulators where appropriate
- Providing advice to WASPA members, from time-to-time on regulatory matters.
3. Aggregators Committee
Appointment
This committee is appointed by Mancom.
Structure
An Aggregator is any company which offers services to content providers or affiliates, or where the services provider is not responsible for marketing the services of the information provider. This definition was very broad, the consensus was that this committee should be open to participation by all WASPA members.
Responsibilities
This committee will be responsible for:
- Development and implementation of the WASPA's code of conduct considering the Aggregators' role within the industry;
4. Code of Conduct Committee (Codecom)
Appointment
This committee is appointed by Mancom.
Structure
It is recommended that Mancom call for volunteers to serve on this committee, and appoint a group of persons to serve on the committee who are broadly representative of WASPA's membership. The Chairperson of the committee must be appointed by Mancom.
Responsibilities
This committee will be responsible for:
- Development and implementation of the WASPA's code of conduct;
- Documentation of the processes used by WASPA to handle code of conduct complaints;
- Development of take-down notification procedures, where required