Joining IFEX

Thank you for your interest in IFEX membership. Our membership application process is currently on pause.

As part of the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan, new membership was put on hold until the end of 2024. IFEX continues to engage with a broader group of organisations and has committed itself to take an inclusive approach to expanding alliances, engaging new and diverse allies that can be leveraged in support of the Strategic Plan goal areas.

Please visit this page in future for updates.

_________________________________________

Why join IFEX?
As the global network defending and promoting freedom of expression, the organisations that make up IFEX are connected by a shared commitment to defend this fundamental human right. By joining the IFEX network, your organisation both contributes to and benefits from that shared commitment along with increased opportunities for visibility, joint advocacy and organisational support.

Visibility: As a member of IFEX you can share your content through us and play your own part in helping amplify the voices of the network. IFEX publishes member stories and reports on our website and promotes them over our social media networks as well as in our IFEX newsletter. Our member stories are seen by the media, citizen activists, human rights defenders, academics and influencers in government, funding agencies and NGOs around the world.

IFEX members at the 2019 General Meeting. Photo Credit: Iram Partap

Joint advocacy and campaigns: IFEX members benefit from the support and solidarity of the network at key moments in their local campaigns. We work to facilitate and support the campaigning initiatives of IFEX member organisations, as well as help groups develop collaborative partnerships with other members of the network with shared advocacy goals. Members can also take part in and benefit from the visibility of IFEX campaign activities, including the No Impunity Campaign, World Press Freedom Day and other IFEX joint actions.

Organisational support: The IFEX network provides support to its members with the aim of strengthening organizations and the individuals that make up these organizations for a stronger and more effective network. IFEX members benefit from support to regional initiatives, skills exchange opportunities between members, a variety of networking opportunities and direct support to members through grants and fundraising assistance.

Who can join
In order to apply for membership, your organisation must be:

– Independent, non-profit, non-governmental
– Your organisation’s work must focus significantly on promoting freedom of expression
– Your organisation must have the capacity to engage and/or participate in the IFEX network

* IFEX membership is not open to individuals.

What you should know before applying
Before you reach out to us about applying, we recommend that you review the following:

1. What We Do: Find out more about IFEX’s work, impact, history and structure
2. Our Network: Find out more about IFEX’s members
3. Our Governance: Find out more about how IFEX operates and what members’ rights and responsibilities are in the network bylaws
4. Our Campaigns: Find out more about IFEX’s campaigns and the advocacy work of members