Commons Network is a Dutch non-profit think tank and “collaboratory” focused on the social and ecological transition. Based in Amsterdam, it works at the intersection of economic policy, democratic governance and digital infrastructure, bringing together researchers, activists, civil society groups and public institutions to develop alternatives to conventional market-driven systems.
The organisation presents its work as an effort to redesign the economy around care, justice and shared ownership. Its agenda includes community economies, post-growth thinking, digital commons and democratic control over technology. In practice, Commons Network produces research, policy proposals, publications and convenings for audiences that include social movements, governments and civil society organisations. It also frames its work in European terms, with a strong emphasis on translocal cooperation and coalition-building across borders.
One of its recurring themes is the “commons” as a governance model: resources and infrastructures should be managed collectively, with more direct participation by the people affected. This is especially visible in its work on digital commons, where it argues for interoperable, inclusive and collaborative digital infrastructures that protect public values such as democracy, self-determination and sovereignty.
Commons Network is led by Sophie Bloemen, a political economist and co-founder who serves as director. Its website also highlights project areas such as “Designing for Collectivity,” “Cities Beyond Growth,” “Digital Infrastructure for the Community Economy,” and “Digital Commons Unpacked,” suggesting a mix of urban, digital and economic transition work. The organisation’s public-facing profile positions it as a policy-oriented actor in Europe’s debates on post-growth, community ownership and democratic digital systems.