In the Arab region, independent professional associations have long played a role in both political organizing and advocacy for the rights of their members. A new Arab Reform Initiative report concludes that while these associations have faced major crackdowns under authoritarian regimes, they have also played a key part in organizing popular movements.  This report includes case studies on the successes and challenges independent professional organizations have faced in the Middle East in the past decade.

Read the summary and download the full report here.