Commons Network

Commons Network is a Dutch non-profit organization based in Amsterdam, operating as a collaboratory for social and ecological transition. Established to explore new economic and societal models, the group brings together activists, policymakers, researchers, and communities to promote justice, care, and sustainability. Their focus lies on advancing commons-based solutions, fostering local and translocal solidarity, and championing systemic transformation. The organization works across five main thematic areas, often collaborating with municipalities, grassroots groups, and other civil society actors. A notable project includes their partnership with the municipality of Amsterdam on Community Wealth Building (CWB). This initiative, launched in 2024 in three underprivileged districts of Amsterdam Nieuw-West, aims to strengthen local economies by emphasizing cooperative structures and community resilience. Their involvement also extends to the Green Cooperative in Nieuw-West, supporting ecological and community-driven economic activities. Commons Network also plays a key role in international advocacy and networking. They co-organized events like the European Commons Assembly to connect commoners across the continent and support peer-learning among municipalist movements. Additionally, since 2022, they have coordinated the European Municipalist Network, fostering shared strategies and policies among cities. Rooted in principles such as degrowth, social equity, and the solidarity economy, Commons Network emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic challenges collaboratively while mobilizing local communities to shape inclusive futures. Their work is anchored in a broader vision of fostering commons as integral to sustainable societal transformation.