• Be aligned with the core values and guiding principles.
• Be committed to challenging unequal power dynamics in practice.
• Advance and protect socio-economic rights.
• Be committed to equity, social and economic justice.
• Be committed to values contained in the South African Constitution.
• If the applicant seeks organisational membership, the values of the organisation must be compatible with the BJC’s values.
• Have the ability to reflect on positioning in relation to the social and political context of country, home organisation and the BJC membership.
• Have a capacity for understanding intersectionality.
• Be committed to collaboration.
• Not be part of a political party, donor organisation, government entity or multinational company.
• Work to amplify citizen voices.
• Have their application to be accepted as a new member supported by the majority of BJC membership
• Possess the ability to give consideration to strong opposition to proposals.
• Accept that the different forms of membership, namely organisational and individual membership, imply different voting rights. Those with individual membership do not enjoy voting rights. Individual members can attend BJC workshops and meetings and benefit from training/capacity building offered by the BJC. Their contribution of expertise and time is valued.
• Be working in the social justice space to be eligible to be a member.

Membership of the BJC is made up of:

• The Founding Members who can be organisations or individuals; and
• Applicants who comply with the eligibility criteria as organisations or individuals.

The BJC has a preference for organisational members, with allowance for individuals (including those with perceived scarce skills and expertise).

Membership is open to:

• Organisational membership: any formally established non-governmental organisation, social movement, worker movement, membership-based organisation or academic research unit which actively engages in the achievement of budget justice and/or socioeconomic rights in South Africa; and
• Individual membership: any unaffiliated individual academic, researcher or activist whose field of research or interest encompasses the achievement of the aims of the Budget Justice Coalition.