Hello everyone,
Recognition as a Wikimedia movement affiliate — a chapter, thematic organization, or user group — is a privilege that allows an independent group to officially use the Wikimedia trademarks to further the Wikimedia mission. To receive and maintain their status as recognized Wikimedia affiliates, groups are required to comply with certain requirements, which are identified in each group's individual chapter, thematic organization, or user group agreement. In particular, the terms of the Wikimedia User Group Agreement and Code of Conduct prohibit user groups from engaging in activity that poses significant risk to other Wikimedia organizations or Wikimedia projects.
As many of you doubtlessly know, the two Wikimedia user groups based in Brazil — Wikimedia Community User Group Brasil and Wiki Education Brazil — have been engaged in a severe and protracted conflict, which has resulted in significant harm to past, ongoing, and planned Wikimedia movement activities in Brazil. As all reasonable attempts to resolve the conflict have failed, the Affiliations Committee is left with no choice but to withdraw the groups' recognition as Wikimedia affiliates.
Consequently, the recognition of Wikimedia Community User Group Brasil and Wiki Education Brazil as Wikimedia user groups has been revoked, and the Wikimedia Foundation's legal department has been requested to formally terminate their respective user group agreements as soon as practicable. Further, the specific individuals who served as the primary contacts for these user groups will be prohibited from serving as primary contacts for any user group application or existing user group for a period of one year.
The Affiliations Committee recognizes that this is an unprecedented and unfortunate development. However, we hope that this step will allow the Wikimedia community in Brazil to work towards a new organizational structure and model that will better serve the needs of movement participants and stakeholders in the country.
Any questions regarding this matter should be addressed directly to the Affiliations Committee.
Regards, Kirill Lokshin Chair, Affiliations Committee