Introduction to Legal Empowerment

Online course open September 28–November 13, 2026.

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Learn how to combine the power of the law with the power of people to address injustice in your community

 

Introduction to Legal Empowerment: Combining the Power of Law With the Power of People teaches learners the basics of legal empowerment. This free, self-paced, online course is offered in English and Spanish from September 28–November 13, 2026. This is a pilot learning offering of the Grassroots Justice Network Academy, the world’s leading legal empowerment institute and learning community hosted by the Grassroots Justice Network convened by Namati. 

The course program draws from examples of legal empowerment work around the world, offering a roadmap for people seeking to address injustices in their own communities. Participants will explore the core concepts of legal empowerment, learn how it functions across diverse contexts, and examine its key components. 

The expected time commitment is 10 hours to complete all eight modules (including the introductory and final sessions). Everyone who successfully completes the course will receive a certificate demonstrating their understanding of legal empowerment.

Whether you are new to legal empowerment or have been practicing for years, these lessons will inspire you and help you reflect on what’s possible when people impacted by injustice know, use, and shape the law.

Learning on your phone? Download the GJN Academy app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store before clicking the button below.

You must be a member of the Grassroots Justice Network to enroll in the course.
Click here to log in to your Network account, or click “Create a new account” to sign up for free.

What will you learn?

  • What legal empowerment means
  • How legal empowerment differs from other ways to create change
  • How legal empowerment has helped address injustices around the world
  • Why legal empowerment is a powerful tool for changing policies and systems

Who should enroll?

  • Grassroots justice advocates
  • Community organizers
  • Civil society and non-governmental organization staff and volunteers
  • Students
  • Anyone interested in legal empowerment and grassroots justice

Why should you participate?

  • Through eight self-paced modules, real-world examples from grassroots justice defenders around the world, and a lively discussion forum, you will gain practical knowledge to use legal empowerment to advocate for justice in your community.
  • Upon completion of the course, you will earn a certificate that can be shared with employers, partners, funders, and professional networks to demonstrate your understanding of legal empowerment.