CLE Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that was founded in 2010 and is based in Thailand. This organization, which developed from a program of BABSEA CLE, grew into an independent organization to pursue its own individual yet complementary mission.

The purpose of CLE Foundation is to promote access to justice and sustainable development throughout the Kingdom of Thailand and Internationally. CLE Foundation aims to achieve its goals through education of both, vulnerable sectors of society, as well as empowering the academic sector, which in time will assist in having a broader impact towards solving the issues generated from a lack in education.

Throughout Thailand, CLE Foundation currently is working and developing its Clinical Legal Education and Community Empowerment Initiatives. Internationally, CLE Foundation, supports and connects CLE Thailand programs with other CLE programs to develop strong collaborations, synergies and best practices in CLE methodology.

The project works to provide legal education throughout Thailand and internationally by working with vulnerable communities through its CLE programs. The project also intends to build a network among partners to cultivate relationships and encourage communication.

This initiative has two main programs:

1. to empower vulnerable individuals and communities by creating and strengthening sustainable legal and rights education as well as access to justice programs in Thailand through the establishment and support of university-based Clinical Legal Education (CLE) programs throughout Thailand and internationally;
2. to improve the education of Thailand and Southeast Asia’s vulnerable communities such as incarcerated youth sector, single mothers, transgender and ethnic minority communities.

CLE Foundation seeks to strengthen CLE programs as well as formulate partnerships with several universities throughout Thailand, including the University of Phayao, Chiang Rai Rajabhat University, Lam Pang Rajabhat University, Mahasarakham University, Northeastern University, Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University, Thammasat University, Ramkhamhaeng University, and Sripatum University. Additionally, CLE Foundation continues to strengthen collaborative connections and networks with CLE programs internationally with the CLE programs and networks throughout Thailand.

This is done in part through the introduction and strengthening of CLE into these universities, it is anticipated that legal education and access to justice programs in Thailand and Internationally will be further strengthened and deeply rooted for the benefit of those in underprivileged communities.