Discover official statements on social justice issues impacting our global network of settlements and community centres. This section highlights IFS and our members’ commitment to addressing challenges such as equity, inclusion, and human rights, amplifying the International Federation of Settlements’ collective voice in pursuit of meaningful change.

Community-Powered Neighbourhoods Report

This report by our UK member, Locality, which hosted the 2025 IFS Conference, explores the vital role of community anchor organisations in transforming neighbourhoods. It presents these local hubs as robust solutions to complex challenges, including stimulating inclusive economic growth, reducing demand on public services, and rebuilding community trust. The paper advocates for a bold new approach centred on community ownership, recommending long-term investment in community assets and embedding these organisations within neighbourhood governance. It showcases real-world case studies and provides a roadmap for empowering communities to drive change from the ground up.

Download this insightful report to learn how community anchor organisations can become the foundation for resilient and thriving neighbourhoods. Discover key recommendations for fostering community ownership, reforming public services, and creating effective partnerships that empower local communities to build a better future for themselves.

Social Justice: The Unfinished Journey

This background paper, “Towards an IFS Declaration on Social Justice,” explores the critical connection between social justice principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It examines how concepts of equity, access, and human rights are intrinsically linked to global sustainability. The paper serves as a foundational document, outlining how the IFS network of settlement houses and neighbourhood centres contributes to each of the 17 SDGs, turning global goals into local solutions. It is a call to action for our sector to continue its vital work in building a fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable world for all.

Download this discussion paper to understand the IFS community’s commitment to social justice and the Sustainable Development Goals. Discover how our global network addresses critical issues like poverty, gender equality, and climate action, providing a framework for creating meaningful, localised solutions to global challenges.

IFS Declaration on Democracy

This declaration, presented at the 2018 Helsinki conference, addresses the state of democracy and civil societies worldwide. It outlines the IFS vision for a democracy founded on human rights, diversity, and the empowerment of local communities. The document expresses concern over the rise of autocracy, the manipulation of public opinion, and attacks on civil society. It calls for the defence of actual democratic values, equitable access to information and resources, and the fair representation of all voices in decision-making processes.

Download the IFS Declaration on Democracy to explore our official position on the challenges facing democratic practice globally. This declaration highlights our commitment to defending genuine democracy, ensuring the inclusion of marginalised voices, and promoting informed, respectful debate on critical issues like migration.

Statement for Defending the Rights of NGOs

This statement, issued by the IFS Board in Rabat, Morocco (2019), addresses the critical situation facing non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Hungary. It highlights the erosion of democratic values and the systematic weakening of civil society through governmental campaigns, restrictive legislation, and funding cuts. The document underscores the essential role community-based organisations play in fostering well-being and democracy. It serves as a firm declaration of the IFS’s commitment to refusing attacks on civil society. It outlines an action plan to support affected organisations through international solidarity, knowledge transfer, and advocacy.

Download this statement to read the IFS’s official stance on defending NGO rights in Hungary. It details the challenges faced by Hungarian civil society, including legislative hurdles and funding reductions, and reaffirms the importance of protecting democratic values and community organisations from political interference.