To challenge the deep-rooted causes of economic and social injustice, advocacy efforts must address both sides of the power divide: elite policy-makers on the one hand and disenfranchised populations on the other. This means taking human rights into the halls of power to demand accountability as well as into communities to mobilize people. Under this dual strategy, CESR’s work incorporates traditional human rights methods of "shaming" governments through publicity, lobbying, and legal procedures, as well as activist tactics such as grassroots mobilization and education campaigns. Ultimately, our goal is to engage in a constructive dialogue with all parties to bring about change.

CESR holds policy-makers at the local, national, and international levels accountable for economic and social rights violations, and also works with them and the impacted community on remedies. Through meetings and active lobbying carried out with local partners, these efforts bring communities into the decision-making process on major issues that affect their lives.

CESR also bring petitions before international and regional bodies that monitor state compliance with economic and social rights. These procedures draw international attention to violations, bolster the work of local activists, and help strengthen international standards. CESR has also provided evidence in public interest lawsuits.

"CESR has offered critical assistance to local groups struggling for justice in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Their most valuable contribution has been strengthening the Frente and community leaders to be the central force in defending their own rights" -- Luis Yanza, President, Frente de Defensa de la Amazonia