ECNL is a team of dedicated, bold and creative legal experts, analysts, and activists committed to protecting and expanding the space for people to gather, organise and take action for a better world.
We focus on the laws, policies, processes and practices that enable our spaces for action. Over the last 20 years, we have tenaciously worked to protect the rights that empower people to achieve change and actively participate in democratic and civic life.
Our vision is:
of a world where every individual has the freedom, power and possibilities to shape a just, inclusive and sustainable future through collective action.
In our vision, people flourish in a world and a planet which are thriving, just and safe. People are empowered with the freedoms and resources to unite, express themselves and shape their societies. Institutions and processes are participatory, rooted in justice, human rights and equity. A diverse, vibrant ecosystem of advocates protects and expands the ability of people to create a positive change.
Our mission is:
work with individuals and groups to take collective action and address societal challenges.
By championing civic freedoms, anticipating and analysing trends shaping collective action and strengthening legal protections, ECNL partners to defend our spaces for action and inspire progressive change. We help create environments where people have the power, resources, and legal support to unite in solidarity, where communities engage in social movements, and individuals actively contribute to democratic processes. Collaborating across sectors and with diverse global and regional institutions, we co-create dynamic coalitions that safeguard rights and foster vibrant platforms for meaningful, transformative change.
We’ll be updating this page with more information soon — meanwhile, you can find further details in the PDF version of the Strategy linked below: