• Collaborative Research

Our approach prioritizes research that is actionable and practically relevant to those on the ground. We conduct research on a wide range of techno-social issues, working hand-in-hand with frontline activists and human rights defenders. Past research topics have included the impact of internet shutdowns, cultures of silence and self-censorship online, the future of AI & democracies, the circulation of disinformation in key countries, and responses to targeted surveillance. In addition, we regularly develop community needs assessments to provide baseline data to inform grassroots-led programming and strategy. We also investigate philanthropic and aid practices and their impact on local actors and democracies, exploring advocacy strategies and influence levers in challenging environments. 

• Strategic Planning and Development

We work with civil society organizations to develop comprehensive strategies to better plan human rights initiatives, track progress, and engage new stakeholders. Our team assists organizations and programs in long-term planning, facilitates sector-wide convenings to build networks, and engages funders in strategic discussions. 

• Impact Evaluation

Our rigorous assessment methodology examines the progress and effectiveness of interventions at multiple levels. We conduct organizational evaluations to understand internal dynamics, perform program evaluations for specific projects, and develop best practices for engaging with and respecting local partners. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of impact.

• Topical Trainings and Long-term Capacity Building

Our approach to training includes skill development on key topics followed by long-term mentorship, community-building and hands-on learning opportunities. This approach ensures that participants can apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, learn through doing, and draw on supportive networks.

• Community Engagement

We facilitate events that bring together diverse stakeholders, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. These gatherings create spaces for creative problem-solving and innovation in the human rights and technology sphere. Our events are designed to produce concrete outcomes and actionable plans. We work to ensure each gathering contributes to ongoing initiatives, integrating seamlessly into broader, long-term strategies.

• Strategic Communication

Our team develops storytelling strategies aimed at reaching broader audiences, creating multimedia content to popularize and mainstream complex topics. By engaging creative professionals and referencing pop culture, we make outputs more engaging and accessible, working to bridge the gap between those specialized in technology policy (lawyers, human rights defenders, technologists) and everyday technology users.

• Advocacy and Policy Influence

Our work focuses on promoting democracy and social progress, even in challenging political contexts. By partnering with local actors, we identify impact pathways in challenging contexts, leveraging emerging opportunities to support cultural and policy shifts while carefully managing risks. Our expertise helps in communicating complex challenges to funders and policymakers, and enables us to design sustainable investment strategies that nurture democratic growth, adapting to each unique political landscape and fostering resilience in the face of significant obstacles.