Organization profile. The Chinese Democratic Education Foundation (CDEF, 中国民主教育基金会) is a California-registered nonprofit founded in 1985 and headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area. It promotes democracy, rule of law, human rights and freedom in China through awards, educational activities and public events.
Organization snapshot
- Name: Chinese Democratic Education Foundation / 中国民主教育基金会
- Abbreviation: CDEF
- Founded: 1985
- Location: California, United States
- Founders listed by CDEF: Huang Yuchuan, Guo Taijian, Yang Yun, Sun Luzheng, Liang Dong, Jiang Wen, Lin Jianming and others
- Website: cdef.link
Mission and governance
CDEF states that it rewards people and activities that advance democracy and rule of law in China and safeguard human rights and freedom. Its public description says the foundation is governed by a volunteer council and relies on donations and volunteer work.
Programs and activities
- Distinguished Person for Advancing Democracy in China Award: an annual recognition program that CDEF says began in 1986.
- Educational seminars and public events: activities connected to democracy, rule of law, human rights and freedom.
- Volunteer governance: the foundation states that council and organizational roles are unpaid.
- 2023 China Action essay initiative: CDEF joined the organizing committee with China Action, Citizen Power Initiatives for China, Democratic China and China in Perspective.
Documented impact and relevance
CDEF is notable for its longevity in the overseas Chinese democracy movement and for maintaining a recurring award program that recognizes activists, writers and other public figures associated with democracy and human rights in China. Its continuing activity across several decades makes it a useful institutional reference point for tracing networks, generational continuity and public recognition within the overseas democracy movement.
Sources
Last reviewed: September 18, 2026. Inclusion documents public relevance and does not imply endorsement, partnership or membership.