Freedom of assembly is a constitutional right in all African countries. Yet, across the continent, laws often fail to protect freedom of assembly in practice. OnWednesday 8 September, AfricanDefenders will be holding a consultation to discuss recent research findings on trends, lessons learnt, and best practices related to citizens exercising their right to protest in West Africa. The research consists of an analysis of trends among protests movements in West Africa as well as a set of case studies that provide in-depth knowledge on selected country-specific situations. The aim of this consultation is to contribute to the advancement of fundamental freedoms across the region, by gathering a community of experts and protest leaders to discuss and substantiate these research findings and disseminate knowledge that could be beneficial to emerging protests as well as existing ones in Africa. We will also aim to identify avenues for evidence-based advocacy and strategic litigation at continental and global levels, to adopt a common strategy with regards to the right to protest.