How is Responsibility in Shambhala Distributed Across Members and Leaders?

Summary of findings

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Monarch butterfly on a flower

Among members, there was less disagreement about leaders listening to input on major decisions in 2023 than there had been in 2022.

Most members did not know what impact they had on decisions by the Shambhala Board and Shambhala Global Services.

Most leaders were neutral or positive about whether the Shambhala Board responds to leader input. Leaders’ interest in input was most frequent in the area of Practice and Education.

Member Survey

(Click here for more information about this survey)

Our leaders listen to my input on major decisions

In both years, members who related to Shambhala groups or centers were asked whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement that leaders of these groups or centers listened to their input on major decisions. Fewer members disagreed with this statement in 2023, compared to 2022”

The 2023 survey asked members if they were satisfied with the amount of impact they had on decisions made by the Shambhala Board and Shambhala Global Services. More than half of the members indicated that they did not know how much impact they had on these decisions. The remaining respondents were divided, with half saying they had enough impact, and the other half saying they would like more impact.

How satisfied are you with the amount of impact you have on decisions made by the Shambhala Board and Shambhala Global Services?

Leaders Survey

(Click here for more information about this survey)

Over three quarters of leaders expressed an interest in participating in decision-making in Practice and Education, while less than 40% were interested in participating in decision-making in Information Technology or Finance and Development.

How much of an interest do you have in participating in planning, proposals and decision-making in these areas?

Finally, two items regarding participation in decision-making with the Shambhala Board were added to the Leader survey in 2023. The majority of leaders were neutral on the question of whether the Board makes decisions based on the consensus of centre and group leaders, while equal portions were neutral and agreed that the Board and Shambhala Global Services works with centre leadership to develop policies. This suggests that many leaders are unaware of consultative activities taking place.

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements regarding the leadership of the Shambhala Board?

Please send your questions and suggestions to Societal Mirror Team or join the conversation on the Societal Mirror Group on the Shambhala Network (password required) forum.

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