Join our global campaign
Help us to expose the harm of organised ostracism and set legal precedents against mandated shunning as a violation of human rights
What is mandated shunning?
Mandated shunning occurs when an organisation forces its members to ignore and isolate former members, due to ideological or theological differences. Mandated shunning even prohibits simple social gestures, such as saying "hello" or sharing a meal. This practice is commonly used by high-control groups to deter members from leaving the group or challenging its practices.
Some groups who practice mandated shunning are Jehovah’s Witnesses, Ultra-Orthodox Jews, Exclusive Brethren, Amish, Bahá'í Faith, and Scientologists. Membership in just these six organisations numbers in the tens of millions worldwide.
Mandated shunning is a fundamental violation of the principles found in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, it escapes prosecution because legal professionals are deceived into thinking that shunning is a personal decision instead of an enforced organisational practice.
Our Mission Statement
Stop Mandated Shunning* works to expose, challenge, and criminalise the coercive practice of mandated shunning by high-control religious groups. Through research, legal advocacy, and with survivor support, we fight to protect human rights, ensure justice, and empower individuals to leave these groups without fear of isolation or harm.
