Membership

Mandate

To uphold the scientific rigour, professional standards and diversity of the AsRSG membership. The sub-committee is responsible for the transparent and equitable administration of membership processes, ensuring that the AsRSG attracts, develops and retains the expertise needed to fulfil its mandate.

A key mandate is to create pathways for young conservationists — scientists, managers and professionals with the specialist skills required for effective rhino conservation — to develop expertise in Asian rhino conservation and to be brought into the group through a dedicated Associate Membership Programme that nurtures the next generation of conservation leaders.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain AsRSG membership criteria, application procedures and code of conduct.
• Review and adjudicate all membership applications in accordance with IUCN SSC membership guidelines.
• Conduct periodic reviews of the membership to identify gaps in geographic, disciplinary or demographic representation.
• Proactively identify and invite prospective members with expertise relevant to AsRSG priorities.
• Design and implement an Associate Membership Programme that recruits young conservationists from across rhino range states, pairs them with senior AsRSG mentors, integrates them into active group work, and provides a clear pathway to full membership.
• Administer the membership database and ensure records are current and complete.
• Manage any membership conduct or conflict-of-interest matters in accordance with AsRSG and IUCN policies.
• Coordinate with the Communications & Knowledge Management sub-committee on member communications and the member induction process.

Relationship to leadership

The sub-committee reports to the AsRSG Leadership Team through Bhaskar Choudhury, Deputy Chair. As the body responsible for the composition and integrity of the full membership, it serves a governance function foundational to all other AsRSG activities.