Catalyst of Change
Supporting a vibrant civil society in Europe
Liderjust Association
liderjust.roLiderJust Association is a non-profit, independent, and apolitical organisation that promotes leadership, initiative, and social involvement in the field of justice while supporting democratic values and the rule of law. Founded in 2011, it grew from the alumni community of the Leaders for Justice programme into an organisation that brings together over 300 members. It advances legal education, citizen awareness, and good practices in justice through projects, partnerships, and programmes for young professionals. At the same time, Liderjust works towards a fair, transparent, and efficient justice system that upholds citizens’ rights.
About the Project
StandUP – Combatting SLAPPs and empowering the civic space in Romania
The project aims to tackle the growing threat of SLAPP cases to civic space and public participation in Romania. SLAPPs drain activist resources, silence critical voices, and prevent real debate. Liderjust’s solution is to build a national coalition of civil society organisations, lawyers, journalists, and human rights defenders. The coalition will support victims, raise public awareness, and advocate for legislative change. So far, Liderjust has been working on forming a national anti-SLAPP coalition with 36 members. The organisation has also carried out legislative advocacy, including attending legal consultations, debating draft laws, and proposing changes. Moreover, Liderjust raises awareness of SLAPP cases. For example, it held a talk at the One World Festival, which nearly 100 people attended. All these activities will continue in the second part of the project. Additionally, Liderjust will also develop a rapid response mechanism for SLAPP victims.
Communication Outputs
Media Coverage
Liderjust’s legislative SLAPP proposals were coverad by national media:
ONG-urile cer protecție în fața intimidărilor și hărțuirii în justiție – RFI
Project Communications
Liderjust created a national database of SLAPP cases.
Liderjust, together with other future coalition partners, asked the Ministry of Justice for a public hearing on the draft law.
Call 3
About the Project
Silent Heroes – No Longer Silent
Liderjust’s second Catalyst project is directed at tackling the sense of helplessness and inaction in the face of corruption in Romania, while also addressing human rights, the rule of law, and government accountability. Through this project, Liderjust aims to inspire citizens and civil society by shifting the narrative and highlighting positive examples of anti-corruption efforts. The project will produce a short video and a documentary, Silent Heroes, featuring ten people fighting corruption in Romania. To engage citizens, journalists, and civil society organisations, the documentary will be accompanied by an extensive campaign. It will be shared through live screenings, film festivals, social media, and partner networks to engage the public and strengthen grassroots efforts for integrity.
Funded by the European Union
name
Catalyst of Change: Protecting the Union values by supporting a resilient, engaged and vocal civil society for the promotion of women’s rights, environmental justice and anti-corruption
partner
European Center for Not-for-Profit Law Stichting (ECNL)
duration
1 January 2023- 31 December 2026
budget
3,411.982 EUR
