The Azadi Foundation
The Azadi Foundation (AF) is a non-profit (501c3 pending), nonpartisan consultancy that provides assistance to individuals, organizations and networks seeking to expand personal liberty and freedom, promote peace and security, and be governed by leaders that are democratically elected.
Across the Middle East today, democracy activists are under siege from autocracies and tyrants. The advancements in personal liberties and freedoms which seemed previously imminent have not transpired and commitments to reform across the region have not been fulfilled. Rather than reform we have seen a retrenchment to the status quo ante where basic freedoms are undermined or denied. Governments and the international community have recognized the need for reform but remain unable to instigate the policies necessary to instigate change; continued appeals for support from democratic activists have remained unfulfilled. While governments and the international community have an important role to play in the development of freedom across the region, others must step forward to augment their efforts. The Azadi Foundation was established to fill this void.
Capitalizing on a twenty million dollar endowment, AF supports discrete projects that promote personal liberty and precipitate democratic consolidation. All programs funded by AF are approved by AF’s Board of Directors – a diverse collection of academics, politicians, and activists -- bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing political and personal freedoms throughout the Middle East.
AF supports nascent democratic movements world-wide as they struggle against the forces that seek to undermine freedom through tyranny, dictatorship, and political repression. We provide assistance, training, advocacy, and education initiatives to promote human rights, democracy, free market economics, and independent media.
In addition, AF works directly with democracy advocates to develop strategies that build the foundation for sustainable coalitions. Our strategy is to extend and strengthen cooperation between international advocates of democracy and freedom by offering administrative and logistical support as well as facilitating communication. Using our experience, knowledge, and partnerships we identify common ground and emerging opportunities to help our global partners:
Develop and maintain organizations, networks and coalitions mobilized for
political action;
Articulate a vision that has mass appeal, and; Implement strategies that realize that vision.
Democratic consolidation ultimately depends on the actions of committed and courageous men and women. We support nonviolent civic initiatives that challenge oppressive regimes and advocate for freedom and personal liberty. AF provides the structure through which motivated reformers can defend democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. AF’s directors are driven by the view that democratic leadership in international affairs is essential to the cause of human rights and freedom. We look forward to putting our knowledge, skills and abilities to work for you to achieve your goals.