Our story

Vision

JALAN Civic Lab envisions a future of Southeast Asia where young people and grassroots communities are at the forefront of democratic transformation.

Mission

JALAN Civic Lab is dedicated to inspiring and equipping youth and grassroots leaders to become active citizens and catalysts for change within their communities. Through our comprehensive programs in hands-on civic education, leadership training, and targeted advocacy, we empower communities to drive meaningful transformation that fosters robust democratic futures.

Our story

JALAN Civic Lab was established as a direct response to the escalating trend of democratic backsliding and the critical need to re-centre the voices of young people and grassroots communities within the democratic process.

Recognising the concern of shrinking civic space and the diminishing influence of youth and local communities, a dedicated collective of young leaders, educators, and advocates from diverse backgrounds across Southeast Asia convened to form the Joint Advocacy and Leadership Action Network (JALAN).

In many Southeast Asian languages, JALAN means 'path/road' or 'to walk/to move'. Thus, JALAN Civic Lab acts as a vital platform to drive impactful education, foster constructive dialogue, and facilitate robust community engagement among youth and grassroots leaders throughout the region.