Around the world, governments are passing different laws to silence critics and solidify power in the hands of a few.
They often introduce so-called ‘foreign agent’ laws, overly broad restrictions on protests or lobbying, or even tax and administrative rules, which are then used to stifle participation, active citizenship and community organising.
Civil society groups are often the first victims, but such laws signal broader trends that can negatively affect media, businesses and society as whole. Stopping these laws early on is one of the best ways to protect the rights and freedoms of everyone.
And there is good news: many groups around the globe have successfully blocked, slowed down, or weakened these harmful laws.
This guide builds on their experience and brings together the legal arguments and practical strategies that have proven successful in challenging the laws and protecting the freedoms we all rely on. You can use it for a broader understanding of key trends, and as inspiration for various defence strategies that would best fit your context.
What you can find in the guide:
- An overview of the common types of restrictive laws, and the legal arguments and international standards that can be used against them;
- Types of strategies used to fight against such laws, including a compilation of resources with tips and best practices or working with different allies;
- Recommendations for effective communication to win public opinion, mobilise your community, or use international pressure to fight restrictions;
- Resources to help adapt to a new context in case the laws are passed.