Understanding Institutions From the Inside
Global Empowerment Direct is a specialist advisory practice in governance, rule of law, justice reform, and gender, based in Maastricht. Established in 2018, GED advises international organizations, development banks, governments, and businesses in complex environments.
The Practice
GED was founded and is led by Krystal K. Thompson, whose twenty-five years inside international courts, post-conflict justice systems, and international organizations shaped how the practice sees institutions: from within. The practice is built on a simple premise: institutions work when the people inside them can. GED works with specialist associates when an assignment requires them.
The Path That Shaped the Practice
GED began in 2018, in rule of law, governance reform, and institutional development. The work has since spanned 20 countries, with international organizations, governments, civil society, and the private sector. Alongside it grew a second focus: what demanding institutions cost the people inside them, and what it takes to stay steady over a long career.
Mission
To help institutions work with integrity in complex environments, and to help the people doing that work stay effective and grounded over the long run.
Vision
Institutions that sustain their people, and people who can sustain the work.
Values
Rigor · Candor · Human Sustainability