Who are we?
Article 18 in an association that places humanity at the heart of its action, drawing inspiration from Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. The association operates based on three main pillars:
- Prevention and education: The fast-paced nature of modern life—driven by globalization, technology, and the constant pursuit of productivity—has created a reality where time seems to slip away, leaving little room for introspection. As a result, tolerance and dialogue around each person’s spiritual or other deeply held beliefs have become increasingly rare. And yet, these conversations are essential if we hope to live in a society grounded in mutual respect. These are sensitive topics—ones that can lead to violence, trauma and widespread conflict. The challenge lies in consciously valuing each individual while remaining humble, open to criticism, and willing to learn from the world around us.
- Support and guidance: Being able to open up and talk to someone should be something possible for everyone. Sharing feelings, concerns, and thoughts with someone who truly listens provides essential support and helps lighten the emotional and mental burden one may carry. Beyond humanitarian aid, the goal is to offer legal and psychological support to those who are oppressed.
- International Advocacy: Raising awareness and defending communities must occur on a larger scale if we want to bring about meaningful change. This involves engaging educational institutions, businesses, governments and every individual who is open and willing to listen.
Our methodology
Article 18 works for and with individuals through a process of introspection and reflection, with a strong focus on listening and open communication. The association operates at local, national, and international levels to shed light on the issue of freedom of conscience—an issue that concerns every human being around the world.
This approach aims to strengthen the psychological resilience of victims and raise awareness among all individuals about this pervasive issue in a world where violence has become a part of everyday life.
The idea is to take the time to reflect and engage with this often-overlooked issue, in order to raise universal awareness of the material and psychological impacts of challenges to freedom of conscience.
When we talk about mental health, it’s often associated with psychology or psychiatry. However, the association does not wish to be directly linked to these fields. Association Article 18 places strong emphasis on the importance of communication and dialogue. The aim is to support and guide individuals through reflection and a spiritual journey.
Our work
Support and guidance for individuals, groups, associations, organizations, or companies facing issues related to freedom of conscience—such as conflicts, lack of motivation, or psychological distress.
Organizing and implementing projects that promote freedom of conscience through mutual, clear, and transparent dialogue.
Coordination and management of programs, partnerships, and teams in fragile contexts, as part of humanitarian interventions related to freedom of conscience.
Creating and managing jobs through projects in crisis or war-affected contexts, while helping people grow in their freedom of conscience.
Teaching, training, and conferences for educational institutions on topics such as freedom, religion, values, and social sciences.
Conducting interviews and providing support to individuals in an intercultural context, with the aim of gathering information and perspectives to better understand the current situation and ensure more effective awareness and support.
Our team
Our team at Association Article 18 possesses extensive experience, acquired in diverse contexts in Europe, the United States, and Canada, as well as in more sensitive areas and conflict zones worldwide. Our broader expertise has most notably gained in the former Soviet Union, the Middle East, and Muslim-majority countries in Africa and Asia. We put our know-how to use in education, teaching, community development; as well as supporting organizations, institutions, and businesses in realizing their projects.
The director and founder of the Association, Roberto Simona, has extensive experience in humanitarian work. His expertise is recognized in both project management and implementation, as well as in his in-depth knowledge of inner freedom -an area he deepened through his studies and doctorate in social, political, human, and humanist sciences.