The Association for Culture and Free Thought relies on collaborative work and humanitarian coordination as a core part of its response and development approach. The association participates in local and international networks and committees that enhance the quality of services, support access to the most vulnerable groups, and contribute to amplifying the voices of affected communities in decision-making platforms.
The association supported the formation and activation of 31 committees to enhance community resilience in displacement camps and sites. These committees work to represent displaced communities, identify needs, lead community initiatives, support aid distribution, and promote community-based responses.
The association leads the Wasal Network, which it initiated in 2006, and which comprises more than 40 grassroots, women’s, and community response committees in the Gaza Strip. The network aims to promote rights and protection, empower women and people with disabilities, support the capacities of civil society organizations, and expand access to humanitarian services for underserved groups and areas.
The association actively participates in humanitarian clusters and working groups, including:
The association strengthened its institutional position by obtaining membership in the International Protection Group, reflecting its leading role in the protection sector. It also assumed a leadership role in the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Network (PSEA) as Vice President, in addition to its membership on the Steering Committee of the United Nations Humanitarian Fund.
The association continues its role within the Palestinian NGO Network (PNGO), and actively participates in the women, youth and advocacy sectors, thereby strengthening the protection of civic space, human rights and the role of Palestinian civil society organizations.
The association participates in the Feminist Humanitarian Network, through which it contributes to promoting feminist principles in humanitarian work and increasing the representation of feminist and national organizations in humanitarian decision-making mechanisms.
The association maintains effective coordination relationships with relevant ministries and government bodies, such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Social Development, in addition to municipalities, community committees, and representative structures in camps and displacement sites.
