Post 2: From Words to Action
Post 1: United to Defend Democracy Post 3: The Power of the Network Post 4: Tools That Strengthen Democracy Post 5: More Democracy, less fragility Post 6: ROSA FAQ
Here some answers to key questions about what will ROSA actually do and a few reflections on what we mean when we say democracy, and how we aim to help defend it.
Why “Democracy”?
We hesitated at first. The word democracy can feel politicized, vague, or misused especially in specific countries where it is linked to specific parties. But avoiding it felt dishonest.
Because what’s under attack around the world is democracy.
Defined simply, democracy is:
A form of government in which political power is vested in the people or the population of a state. (Wikipedia)
But that system only works when it’s supported by independent courts, free media, fair elections, rule of law, and civic space. When these are weakened, democracy decays. That’s why ROSA is here.
What Is ROSA Network?
ROSA stands for: Resist. Organize. Safeguard. Act.
We’re building a civic-first, non-partisan structure to:
- Link people defending democracy across sectors and borders
- Share tools, legal resources, and crisis kits
- Support local civic groups (“ROSA Cells”)
- Help communities prepare before it’s too late
We’re not an NGO. Not a party. Not a brand. We’re an infrastructure for unity ment to be light, fast, and open.
What Will the Core Team Do?
The core team’s job is to build and maintain the digital backbone. That means:
Connecting civic defenders A simple, secure online hub to help people find each other and act together.
Creating or publishing practical resources “Democracy First Aid Kits” with legal templates, know-your-rights guides, protest safety, emergency checklists, and more (adaptable by country) .
Supporting local ROSA Cells We’ll help groups self-organize with starter kits, legal help, and examples from other regions.
Monitoring threats and resilience We’re building an early warning system and a civic self-assessment tool (Resilience Index) to anticipate risk and act early.
What Might This Look Like?
You’re stopped by police during a protest.
ROSA helps you:
- Understand your rights
- Contact a local pro-bono lawyer
- Alert a trusted ROSA Cell
- Know what to expect if you’re detained
You’re a teacher facing censorship.
ROSA provides:
- Legal framing for action- Media support
- A way to connect with others in the same fight
You’re a journalist under pressure.
ROSA connects you to:
- Rapid legal aid
- Collective visibility
- Tools to counter disinformation
This is not theory. It’s readiness.
What’s Next?
We’re currently building:
- The first Resource Hub (launching this fall)
- Starter kits for ROSA Local Cells
- Partnerships with legal experts, journalists, and civic defenders across countries
Want to get involved ?
ROSA needs contributors: civic, legal, digital, local. Every skill counts. Every voice matters!
The ROSA Network Team – Resist. Organize. Safeguard. Act.
rosa.social | info@rosa.social