Women, including girls, transgender, gender diverse, and intersex women, are advancing human rights and democracy across the world. Yet they face discriminatory laws and practices that prevent the exercise of civic freedoms. Many women also face intersectional forms of discrimination based on their race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, or disability, which further impedes their participation in public life.
ICNL works to promote an enabling environment for women’s full and equal enjoyment of the rights to freedom of expression, assembly, association, and public participation, including in online spaces. We work with partners to advance international, regional, and national norms and standards that enhance women’s civic freedoms. Working with women-led organizations and movements, ICNL also supports capacity building and knowledge sharing on how to advocate for legal reforms protecting civic space for all women.
