Governance

Context

MINKA represents an innovative approach to the concept of a citizen observatory. It serves a dual role as a research infrastructure for citizen science and as a digital hub for communities engaged in public participation in scientific research. Back in 2022, it was officially established as an initiative by the EMBIMOS research group, led by Jaume Piera, and is based at the Institute of Marine Sciences of the Spanish Research Council in Barcelona, Spain. Now, thanks to a partnership with the SME Quanta Labs, they form the dynamic executive arm of MINKA.

MINKA was born out of a deep desire for citizen science that co-creates relevant and timely knowledge. It aims to generate knowledge that addresses global needs while fostering action within local realities. We aspire to be the digital space for "A community co-creating knowledge for action". And today, that action becomes tangible through the measurement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). MINKA strives to make a meaningful contribution towards these goals, empowering individuals, and communities to take proactive steps for collecting and sharing data that contribute to a more sustainable future.

The present document outlines the MINKA governance model, summarizing the key aspects of who, when, where, and how decisions are made to effectively operate MINKA. It presents our mission and principles, underscoring our commitment to the community we serve. Additionally, the document elucidates our structure, roles, and functions, which are designed to ensure transparency and smooth operations within MINKA.

We are a community focused on promoting and expanding citizen science. Together, we strive to ignite a spark of impactful change through collaborative knowledge creation, bridging the gap between research and action. Guided by our governance model, we navigate this exciting journey of supporting the shape of a better world through citizen science and the pursuit of sustainable development.

MINKA mission

Our mission is to empower citizen science communities, fostering the co-creation of relevant knowledge and driving action for a sustainable future through data collection and sharing.

MINKA vision

Our vision is to be at the forefront of citizen science technology, revolutionizing access to long-term participatory infrastructures through our pioneering platform.

MINKA principles

Our decisions, long-term vision, and daily actions are guided by our four foundational principles. Like sturdy pillars, these principles uphold our mission as a citizen observatory and reflect our unwavering commitment to the citizen science community. Together, we strive to provide a reliable platform, fostering collaboration and delivering meaningful results.

Openness. MINKA embraces an open approach, encouraging the free flow of information and ideas among its community members.
Transparency. MINKA ensures transparency by providing clear and accessible information about its processes, data handling, and decision-making.
Collaboration. MINKA promotes collaboration by fostering an environment that encourages active participation, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving.
Acknowledgement. MINKA recognizes and appreciates the contributions of its citizen scientists, giving credit and acknowledging their valuable input and efforts in the pursuit of sustainable development.

MINKA governance model

The MINKA governance model embraces the inclusion of diverse stakeholders, aiming to represent all five helixes ¹ and foster an interdisciplinary perspective within citizen science infrastructures. At its core, the model consists of two key components: the MINKA panel and MINKA nodes. The MINKA panel serves as a platform for strategic alliances, inviting participation from academia, civil society, industry, and government, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive thematic outlook from the five helixes. On the other hand, MINKA nodes represent a territorial viewpoint, engaging individuals and communities who utilize the platform to address and drive actions in specific ecosystems, municipalities, or regions. Together, the executive board and coordination team form the operational backbone of this alliance, working in unison to uphold the principles and objectives of MINKA's governance model.