Movement ecosystem framework
The Social Movement Ecosystem Framework* provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and strengthening social movements. It recognises the diversity of strategies, actors, and roles within a movement and emphasises the importance of relationships, synergy, and coordination across different approaches. The framework identifies five key theories of change commonly present in successful movements:
Personal Transformation – Changing individuals through education, awareness, and lifestyle shifts (e.g., vegan advocacy, diversity training).
Building Alternatives – Creating new models and systems that embody movement values (e.g., plant-based food systems, sanctuaries).
Inside Game – Engaging with policymakers, courts, and businesses to push for incremental reforms (e.g., corporate campaigns, lobbying, strategic litigation).
Structure and Community Organising – Building strong grassroots networks that can pressure institutions (e.g., trade unions, local activist groups).
Mass Protest – Using direct action and protest to shift public opinion and create political pressure (e.g., mass demonstrations, civil disobedience).
(Source: Ayni School Movement Ecology Series https://aynischool.com/movement-ecology-series/)
All of these approaches are necessary for a movement to thrive. However the biggest challenge facing many movements is internal division and fragmentation. Successful movements build alliances across sectors, acknowledging that different actors play different roles but contribute to the same overarching goal. This requires intentional efforts to strengthen coordination, foster trust, and ensure collaboration over competition.
*As developed by the Ayni Institute and the Ulex Project’s Movement Learning Catalyst, both informed by Bill Moyer’s Movement Action Plan model.
