Resolutions and Mandates

A democratic process

Every year WI members have the chance to put forward issues as 'resolutions' that they want to see the national body campaign on.

Member led

The WI is an entirely member led organisation, and the resolutions process ensures that every WI member has the opportunity to set the direction of NFWI campaigns and policy, from the grassroots up.

Resolutions go through a year long debating and consultation process.  Members shortlist resolutions for debate in Federations and WIs, before making a final selection of resolutions to take forward for discussion at the AGM in the summer. If passed, these then become mandates and form the basis of campaigning and awareness raising activities in the years ahead.

2013 AGM

Delegates at the 2013 AGM will vote on a resolution from the NFWI Board on the 'decline of our high streets and town centres.' The resolution reads:

'The NFWI notes with concern the continuing decline of our high streets and the damaging effect this has on local communities. We call on every member of the WI to support their local shops and make the high street their destination of choice for goods and services. We call on decision-makers to work collectively, at all levels, to help bring an end to the decline of our high streets and to ensure that high streets flourish and provide a focal point for local communities.' - The NFWI Board

2012 AGM

Marylyn Haines Evans - Campaign Update speech

Before resolutions are put to the AGM they go through an in-depth debating process.  80,000 WI members selected from a shortlist of six, to take a resolution on the Employment of More Midwives forward for voting and debate at the 2012 AGM at the Royal Albert Hall.  On the 30th May 2012 this was passed with a majority of 96% voting in favour. 

Read the 2012 resolution speeches here:

Read the resolution briefings here:

2011 AGM

Delegates at the 2011 AGM passed a resolution on 'The Closure of Local Libraries' with an overwhelming majority of 98%. The resolution reads:

This meeting urges H.M. Government to maintain support for local libraries, as an essential local educational and information resource. –Nedderton WI
Northumberland Federation

The NFWI is now campaigning to raise awareness of the risks facing many local libraries and working to mobilise support for our public libraries. Please contact the Public Affairs team for information on how you can get involved.

Download the 2011 AGM speeches:

Annie Mauger, Chief Executive of CILIP
Amelia Wilson, Nedderton WI, Resolution Proposer