“I am delighted to welcome Change.org as an observer with GNI,” said GNI Executive Director Judith Lichtenberg. “It should come as no surprise that an organization dedicated to empowering everyday people would continue to set a good example by committing to the GNI principles. Change.org is a powerful global force for social good, and we look forward to what we can accomplish together.”
Change.org is the world’s largest petition platform. It has more than 100 million users in over 196 countries who create more than 1,000 petitions every day. Change.org is a social enterprise and is a certified B Corporation.
Change.org Policy Director, Sunita Bose, said: “Change.org hosts more than 100 million people coming together to change the most pressing issues in their lives. As a microcosm of the world’s opinions, it can sometimes be a difficult place to govern. We’re excited to learn from and contribute to industry dialogue about how to keep the Internet a free and open place that is safe enough for everyone to raise their voice.”
Observer status is an opportunity for companies who are actively considering joining GNI to actively examine the initiative’s programs and its principles on free expression and privacy.
GNI Independent Board Chair Mark Stephens said: “We welcome Change.org to observer status at the GNI. At a time when freedom of expression and privacy are under enormous strain around the world, we are excited that Change.org will be engaging directly with our unique multi-stakeholder membership to protect these rights online.”
“By joining GNI as an observer, Change.org demonstrates its recognition that for free speech online to flourish, it must be protected as well as encouraged,” said GNI Board Secretary Bennett Freeman.
The observer status lasts for one non-renewable twelve-month term. Observers participate in policy and learning sessions organized by GNI, and engage with current GNI participants and staff. Observers may choose to apply to join GNI as a full member following their one-year term. More information about membership and observer status with the GNI can be found here.