Freedom of Assembly
The right to assemble peacefully is a fundamental prerequisite for any open and self-governing society. While most countries’ constitutions promise freedom of assembly, far fewer governments uphold this basic right without undue restrictions.
Protests Erupt Around the Globe
A striking number of new citizen protest movements have emerged over the past year, reflecting the inexhaustible and universal desire for fundamental rights. However, these movements have in many cases confronted deeply entrenched interests that are able to endure considerable pressure and are willing to use deadly force to maintain power. The protests of 2019 have so far failed to halt the overall slide in global freedom, and without greater support and solidarity from established democracies, they are more likely to succumb to authoritarian reprisals. To learn more about how protests impacted the state of global freedom, read the Freedom in the World 2020 report.
Freedom House in the Media:
News & Perspectives:
Improving Transparency, Empowering Citizens: Ecuador’s Fundación Ciudadanía y Desarrollo
Perspectives
February 24, 2022
Myanmar: Democratic States, International Organizations Must Redouble Efforts to Support Democracy One Year after Coup
Press release
February 1, 2022
Kazakhstan: Freedom House Urges De-escalation of Violence, Movement Toward Rule of Law
Press release
January 6, 2022
Cuba: The United States Must Support Cubans’ Demand for Long-Awaited Freedom
Press release
July 19, 2021
Cuba: Authorities Must Refrain From Inciteful Language, Use of Force against Peaceful Protests
Press release
July 13, 2021
Featured Analysis:
Featured Experts
If you would like to interview a Freedom House expert on this topic, please email [email protected].