There are a few members on here that were attracted to this forum in its early days after experiencing what was, at the time, the BBKA forum in 2010. The forum came into existence because the original forum owner felt that there was a place for a forum where beekeeping could be discussed openly, without restriction - he had concerns, with others, that the BBKA forum, at that time, did not meet the perception or vision he had. This forum grew rapidly and the BBKA forum at best remained static and at worst, judging by the posting activity back in those days, shrank.
It's fair to say that the policies of this forum were more liberal than those of the BBKA .. we are, generally, permitted to express our views - across a wide spectrum of topics, some of which have a passing asscociation with beekeeping. Posts are rarely removed, threads are lightly moderated and when you look at the number of views that threads attract it is clearly a vibrant and well supported forum. At any one time - day or night - there are always large numbers of people (not including Bots) on line and viewing posts - this has to be a measure of its popularity.
Yes, there are members on here who are disparaging about the BBKA ... their experiences are their views and we are fortunate that they are permitted to express them. Equally, there is no reason why we would censor anyone who felt that their view of the BBKA was positive and they are free to express their views without any intervention from the moderators.
I am a member of the BBKA through my association - the Insurance alone is good value and I enjoy the social side of my local association and the various benefits of belonging to Hampshire BKA .. do I wish the National Association was more pro-active in some areas ?- yes I do. Do I feel inclined to make an effort to get involved and change things .. I regret to say that I'm a bit apathetic in that respect.
So, in a long winded way I've said what Dani said - we are a broad church - but there is no compulsion to either participate or accept the comments of a minority - feel free to post your views - objective or subjective. I think we have it about right here - I rarely dip into the BBKA forum but I'm sure some people do.