Our Goals
The Coalition for Democratic Governance (C4DG) exists to strengthen democratic accountability across member-owned organisations, listed companies, charities and other institutions where governance decisions affect millions of people.
Too often, governance structures are designed around managerial convenience rather than meaningful participation. Voting systems can discourage scrutiny, executive accountability can be weak, and members frequently lack direct representation within the organisations they collectively own.
C4DG was created to bring together organisations and individuals who believe these trends should be challenged collectively rather than in isolation.
What We Are Trying to Achieve
1. Protect meaningful participation at AGMs
Annual General Meetings remain one of the few opportunities for direct accountability between boards and members.
We support hybrid participation models that widen access, but oppose fully virtual-only AGMs where scrutiny, transparency and member interaction may be reduced.
2. Secure binding votes on executive remuneration
In many member-owned organisations, votes on executive pay remain advisory only.
Where members are the ultimate owners, they should have meaningful authority over remuneration policy and executive accountability.
3. Increase direct member representation on boards
Member-owned organisations should include stronger mechanisms for direct member representation at board level.
We support reforms that create clearer pathways for member-nominated directors and broader democratic participation within governance structures.
4. Reform voting systems that weaken democratic choice
Mechanisms such as “Quick vote” bundled voting can reduce scrutiny and disproportionately favour incumbent boards.
We support voting systems that encourage informed, independent decision-making by members and shareholders.
Building a Coordinated Voice
C4DG is intended to serve as a common platform for organisations and campaign groups working on overlapping governance concerns.
By coordinating activity, sharing research, amplifying campaigns and engaging collectively with media, regulators and policymakers, we aim to improve the visibility and effectiveness of democratic governance reform efforts across the UK.