Stakeholders perceptions and practices in third sector governance: a qualitative exploration of enhancing governance in civil society organizations (CSOs) affiliated with the NAMA foundation

This research explores the governance practices within Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) affiliated with the NAMA Foundation. It aims to understand the perceptions of stakeholders, particularly CEOs, Board of Directors, and other key actors, regarding the current governance structure and practices in these third-sector organizations. The study focuses on elucidating the dynamics of stakeholder involvement in decision-making processes and the factors influencing their engagement levels. A qualitative research methodology was employed, centered around conducting in-depth, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (directors and board members) from eight NAMA-affiliated CSOs. This approach facilitated a refined understanding of individual experiences, knowledge, and skills regarding governance practices. The collected data were rigorously analyzed through thematic analysis, aiming to distill critical insights and patterns from the participants' perspectives. The thematic analysis revealed several major themes, including distinct governance structures, varied criteria for board selection, diverse leadership approaches, frequency of board meetings, policy review and advocacy practices, and levels of staff engagement and inclusivity. These themes showcased the unique governance practices and decision-making processes in different CSOs, highlighting the varying degrees of stakeholder involvement and the impact of these practices on organizational effectiveness. The findings offer valuable insights into the complex interplay of governance structures, stakeholder perceptions, and management practices within the third sector. They contribute significantly to the discourse on improving governance in CSOs, particularly those affiliated with the NAMA Foundation. The study's implications extend to recommendations for enhancing governance structures, which could lead to a more significant impact and effectiveness of CSOs in various developmental domains