What is "freedom of association"

n. The right of citizens to come together with other individuals and collectively express, promote, pursue and defend common interests

Freedom of association is the right to join or leave groups of a person's own choosing, and for the group to take collective action to pursue the interests of members. It is both an individual right and a collective right, guaranteed by all modern and democratic legal systems, including the United States Bill of Rights, article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and international law, including articles 20 and 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and Conventions 87 and 98 of the International Labour Organization.

Freedom of association is primarily manifested through the right to join a trade union, free speech or debating societies, political parties, or any other club or association such as religious groups, fraternities, or sport clubs. It is closely linked with the freedom of assembly, particularly under the US Bill of Rights. More specifically the freedom of assembly is understood in a political context, although depending on the source ( constitution, human rights instrument, etc.) the right to freedom of association may be understood to include the right to freedom of assembly. However, often as a condition under a legal stipulation, the courts and delegated officers of the local jurisdiction, may impose restrictions on a convicted criminal in regards to any of their rights waived under conditions and as a result of a guilty plea or conviction. e.g., people with restraining orders, probationer's search and seizure procedures, etc.