The process aims to develop a comprehensive commentary on freedom of association, and contributions are invited from trade unions, national human rights institutions, civil society organizations (CSOs), academia, and international organizations.
Deadline for submissions: 19 December 2025
Individuals and organizations wishing to contribute must prepare their inputs in English, French, or Spanish. There is no word limit.
Submission details
• To: [email protected]
• CC: [email protected]
• Email subject line: “Written contribution for draft GC 38”
• Accepted file format: Word document
ICCPR Article 22: Freedom of Association
Article 22 of the Covenant recognizes everyone’s right to form and join associations, including the right to form and join trade unions. It states that this right may only be restricted under limited grounds and only when necessary in a democratic society.
Freedom of association is closely linked with other fundamental rights—such as freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and freedom of religion—and is considered one of the essential foundations of a democratic society.
What will General Comment No. 38 focus on?
The forthcoming General Comment No. 38 will elaborate on states’ obligations in the area of freedom of association, including their duties to respect, protect, and facilitate the exercise of this right; combat discrimination; and ensure safe working environments both physically and digitally.
It will also address contemporary challenges such as threats posed by non-state actors, digital surveillance and communication restrictions, limitations imposed during states of emergency, and inequalities faced by marginalized groups in accessing their right to organize.
For more details: https://www.ohchr.org/en/calls-for-input/2025/call-input-draft-general-comment-no-38-article-22-freedom-association