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Draft:OPEN (The Online Progressive Engagement Network)

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Online Progressive Engagement Network (OPEN) is a global network of digital-first, people-powered progressive campaigning organizations. Founded in 2013, OPEN fosters collaboration among national progressive organizations, equipping them with technology and strategies to accelerate social justice movements. It operates across 18 countries on six continents, focusing on democracy, climate action, racial justice, and combating authoritarianism.

History

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OPEN was founded with a dual mission: to support existing national progressive organizations and to incubate similar organizations worldwide. The goal was to optimize their domestic influence while connecting them to a global network for greater impact. By 2024, the network had grown to include groups across 18 countries, with a focus on fostering democratic engagement and innovation in the Global South.

Mission and Vision

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OPEN aims to build people power by connecting, supporting, and growing progressive campaigning organizations worldwide. Its vision is a more just, equitable, and sustainable world where people can mobilize for change through cutting-edge digital tools and collaborative action. The network is committed to values of justice, equity, and solidarity in its work and governance.

Programs and Activities

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OPEN supports its members through several programs designed to enhance their campaigning capacity:

  • Elections Lab: A multi-year project that supports member organizations with resources and expertise to mobilize voters and ensure accountability post-elections. The lab fosters innovations in electoral campaigning, such as AI-driven content production, message testing, and new digital organizing strategies.
  • Rapid-Response Hub: The hub offers real-time data analytics, AI-driven content creation, and tailored guidance for member organizations. This allows for swift responses during critical political moments, helping groups address election and policy changes more effectively.
  • Shared Digital Tools and Innovation: OPEN invests in a shared tech stack, providing member groups with access to cutting-edge software at affordable rates. The network encourages innovation by curating digital strategies, tools, and best practices from within the network and beyond.

Governance and Organizational Structure

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OPEN operates under a decentralized model, allowing each member organization to maintain autonomy while benefiting from shared resources. The network is governed by an executive committee (EC) and an organizational general assembly (OGA), with proposals in place to enhance transparency, equity, and decision-making.

In 2024, OPEN introduced a new governance model to ensure alignment with its values and strategy, emphasizing inclusivity and reducing power dynamics between larger and smaller member organizations. The introduction of the Movement Generosity Fund ensures equitable support for organizations in times of financial stress.

Technology and Innovation

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Technology plays a central role in OPEN's operations. Its **technology program** aims to position member organizations as leaders in digital campaigning through access to advanced tools and platforms. Key initiatives include:

  • Developing a core tech stack for digital campaigning, offering onboarding, training, and support to new and existing organizations.
  • Facilitating knowledge exchange between member groups to drive digital innovation and develop globally-relevant campaigning software.

Member Organizations

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OPEN’s member organizations span 18 countries and are key to its global impact.

Key Campaigns

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OPEN member organizations have led several high-impact campaigns, ranging from defending democratic institutions to opposing far-right movements. Recent successes include:

  • Mobilizing voters during the 2024 EU elections, where OPEN coordinated efforts across multiple countries
  • Running viral campaigns against authoritarianism and far-right extremism in Spain, leveraging AI-driven tools to reach millions of voters

External Partnerships

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OPEN’s strategy involves forging partnerships with technology providers, funders, and other advocacy groups. For example, its collaboration with the BeCause Platform has enabled seamless integration of digital tools to support member campaigns

References

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