In the action plan of District 1420’s Governor, strengthening cooperation between Rotarians and clubs in our two countries is emphasized. To develop and accelerate this cooperation, the Governor appointed a seven member committee with strong representation from both nations.
Cooperation between Finnish and Estonian clubs and Rotarians is currently in good shape and has improved recently, as more training has been offered, more materials have been translated into Estonian, and Estonians have participated more actively in district activities. There are no issues in the relationships, even though cooperation has been limited in previous years. Some may feel that there is already enough activity within their own country’s clubs and prefer to focus on that and on their own projects. According to the committee, cooperation can be strengthened through good leadership, open communication, quality training, and a respectful atmosphere.
The best foundation for relationships and cooperation is getting to know one another and building trust. For this reason, joint district level, inter club, and individual Rotarian meetings are essential. The committee recommends increasing these meetings at all levels, for example by encouraging clubs to establish friendship clubs on both sides of the Gulf of Finland.
Projects are a common and important way for Rotarians to do good. Joint projects between clubs or at the district level would support cooperation in many ways and strengthen the sense of belonging.
The committee recommended the following measures to reinforce and develop cooperation:
- Cooperation should be prominently included in the strategy and action plans and be a normal part of district operations.
- Estonians should be involved in all district functions, such as committees dealing with district wide matters. This helps ensure the district becomes familiar to everyone.
- Training should be the same for all, and proper orientation should ensure continuity and development.
- We propose elevating AG activities as a key channel for operational development. Assistant Governors’ “Round Table” meetings should be organized to support coordination.
- Joint meetings, events, and projects should be increased. District support and active engagement are needed.
- Meeting technology should be further developed and used more widely to address language issues and facilitate discussion.
Read more in the Governor’s action plan and the full report
