# Centre de Liaison et d'Information des Puissances maçonniques Signataires de l'Appel de Strasbourg

CLIPSAS (Centre de Liaison et d'Information des Puissances maçonniques Signataires de l'Appel de Strasbourg; English: "Liaison and Information Center of Masonic Powers Signatories of the Strasbourg Appeal") is an international Masonic organization that serves as the primary coordinating body for Liberal and Adogmatic Freemasonry worldwide. Established in 1961 through the historic Strasbourg Appeal, CLIPSAS represents an alternative to Conservative Anglo-Saxon Masonic recognition systems, emphasizing absolute freedom of conscience and inclusive Masonic practices.
The organization maintains observer status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and comprises over 100 member obediences across multiple continents. CLIPSAS is distinguished by its recognition of masculine, feminine, and mixed-gender Masonic bodies, as well as its philosophical stance that religious belief should not be a prerequisite for Masonic membership.

## History
### Origins and Foundation

The formation of CLIPSAS emerged from growing tensions within the international Masonic community during the mid-20th century. Conservative Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, represented primarily by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), maintained strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership. These restrictions created significant divisions within the Masonic world, particularly affecting Liberal Freemasonry.
On January 22, 1961, eleven sovereign Masonic obediences convened in Strasbourg to address these challenges. The meeting resulted in the Strasbourg Appeal, a foundational document that would reshape the landscape of Liberal Freemasonry. The original signatories were:
| Obedience | Country | Status in CLIPSAS |
| Grand Orient of Austria | Austria | Founding Member, Active |
| Grand Orient of Belgium | Belgium | Founding Member, Left 2019 |
| AFAM Grand Lodge | Germany | Founding Member, Active |
| Federal Grand Orient of Spain | Spain | Founding Member, Active |
| French National Grand Lodge ("Opera") | France | Founding Member, Active |
| Grand Orient of France | France | Founding Member, Left 2019 |
| Italian National Grand Lodge | Italy | Founding Member, Left 2021 |
| Grand Orient of Lebanon | Lebanon | Founding Member, Active |
| Grand Orient of Luxembourg | Luxembourg | Founding Member, Active |
| Grand Lodge of the Netherlands | Netherlands | Founding Member, Active |
| Grand Orient of Switzerland | Switzerland | Founding Member, Active |

### The Strasbourg Appeal

The Strasbourg Appeal of 1961 represents a watershed moment in Masonic history. Its text, carefully crafted to address fundamental issues within Freemasonry, declared:
   The Sovereign Masonic Powers meeting in Strasbourg on January 22, 1961, considering that it is imperative to restore among all Freemasons the Chain of Union broken by regrettable exclusions contrary to the principles of Anderson's Constitutions of 1723, and that it is important to this effect to research in common, taking into account all traditions, all rites, all symbols, all beliefs and in respect of absolute freedom of conscience, the conditions which determine the quality of Freemason.
The Appeal established several revolutionary principles for its time:
* The optional nature of religious requirements in Masonic practice
* Recognition of feminine and mixed-gender Masonry
* Emphasis on freedom of conscience over dogmatic requirements
* Commitment to universal Masonic recognition without reciprocity requirements

### Organizational Development

Following its establishment in 1961, CLIPSAS formally registered as an association under French law (1901), establishing its headquarters in Paris. The organization's foundational years were marked by deliberate efforts to create robust institutional structures while expanding its influence beyond European borders.

#### 1960s-1970s

The first decade of CLIPSAS operations witnessed steady growth in membership, with particular emphasis on European obediences. The organization instituted regular General Assemblies, creating a democratic forum for member participation and decision-making. During this period, CLIPSAS developed comprehensive recognition protocols that would guide inter-obedience relations for decades to come. The creation of regional coordination structures enhanced operational efficiency and facilitated closer cooperation between geographically proximate members.

#### 1980s-1990s

The 1980s marked CLIPSAS's emergence as a truly global organization. Latin American obediences joined in significant numbers, bringing fresh perspectives and enriching the organization's cultural diversity. African membership grew substantially during this period, establishing CLIPSAS as a significant presence on the continent. The organization also began developing formal relationships with international bodies, laying groundwork for future diplomatic recognition.

#### 2000s-Present

Recent decades have transformed CLIPSAS into a modern, globally influential organization. The achievement of UN ECOSOC observer status significantly enhanced its international standing and advocacy capabilities. Embracing technological advancement, CLIPSAS implemented comprehensive digital transformation initiatives to facilitate communication and cooperation among members. The organization intensified its focus on global humanitarian projects, coordinating substantial relief and development efforts across multiple continents. Geographic expansion continued, with new member obediences joining from previously unrepresented regions, particularly in Asia and Eastern Europe.

### Leadership Evolution

The evolution of CLIPSAS's leadership was in line with its commitment to international representation and diversity. The formative period from 1961 to 1990 saw the presidency held exclusively by representatives of the Grand Orient of Belgium, beginning with Georges Beernaerts. Under Belgian leadership, CLIPSAS established strong organizational foundations and developed the protocols that would guide its future growth. This period of consistent leadership provided stability during the organization's crucial early decades, allowing for steady development of its institutional framework and expansion of its international influence. The transition away from exclusively Belgian leadership in 1990 marked a new era of broader international representation, reflecting CLIPSAS's evolution into a truly global organization. This shift enabled diverse perspectives to shape the organization's direction while maintaining continuity with its founding principles. Each subsequent presidency has contributed unique insights and priorities, enriching CLIPSAS's approach to advancing Liberal Freemasonry worldwide and establishing mutual recognition between Liberal Grand Lodges.

#### Complete Presidential Timeline

| Years | President | Obedience | Notable Achievements |
| 1961–1962 | Georges Beernaerts | Grand Orient of Belgium | Organizational establishment |
| 1962–1964 | Charles Castel | Grand Orient of Belgium | Early development |
| 1964–1966 | Walter Heinz | Grand Orient of Belgium | Expansion of membership |
| 1966 | Paul Van Hercke | Grand Orient of Belgium | Interim leadership |
| 1966–1970 | Robert Dille | Grand Orient of Belgium | Structural consolidation |
| 1970–1973 | Victor Martiny | Grand Orient of Belgium | International outreach |
| 1973–1976 | Pierre Burton | Grand Orient of Belgium | Protocol development |
| 1976–1979 | Jaak Nutkewitz | Grand Orient of Belgium | Administrative reforms |
| 1979–1982 | André Mechelynck | Grand Orient of Belgium | Membership expansion |
| 1982–1985 | Nicolas Bontyes | Grand Orient of Belgium | Regional development |
| 1985–1987 | Silvain Loccufier | Grand Orient of Belgium | International relations |
| 1987–1990 | Guy Vlaeminck | Grand Orient of Belgium | Transitional period |
| 1990–1993 | Jean-Robert Ragache | Grand Orient of France | First non-Belgian president |
| 1993–1996 | Marc-Antoine Cauchie | Grand Orient of Luxembourg | Strategic planning |
| 1996–1998 | Marie-France Coquard | Grande Loge Féminine de France | Gender equality initiatives |
| 1998–2000 | Javier Otaola Bajeneta | Grande Loge Symbolique Espagnole | Spanish expansion |
| 2000–2004 | Marc-Antoine Cauchie | Grand Orient of Luxembourg | Organizational reform |
| 2004–2007 | Gabriel Nzambila | Grands Orients et Loge Associée du Congo | African development |
| 2007–2008 | Jefferson Isaac João Scheer | Grande Loja Unida do Parana | Latin American outreach |
| 2008–2011 | Marc-Antoine Cauchie | Grand Orient of Luxembourg | International recognition |
| 2011–2014 | António Reis | Grande Oriente Lusitano | European coordination |
| 2014–2017 | Louis Daly | Grande Loge Omega de New-York | North American expansion |
| 2017–2021 | François Padovani | Grande Loge Mixte de France | Digital transformation |
| 2021–present | Ivan Herrera Michel | Federacion Colombiana de Logias Masónicas | Current leadership |

## Principles and Philosophy
### Core Philosophical Framework

At the heart of CLIPSAS lies an unwavering commitment to absolute freedom of conscience, marking a profound departure from traditional Masonic requirements. This foundational principle has redefined Liberal Freemasonry's approach to spirituality, gender equality, and social progress in the modern world.

### Freedom of Belief

CLIPSAS champions a revolutionary approach to Masonic spirituality, embracing diverse paths to philosophical and spiritual development. Unlike traditional Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, which mandates belief in a Supreme Being, CLIPSAS empowers each lodge and obedience to determine its own spiritual framework. This autonomy extends to the invocation of the Great Architect of the Universe, the use of sacred texts, and the interpretation of Masonic symbolism. Through this approach, CLIPSAS creates space for meaningful spiritual exploration while respecting individual conscience and belief systems. The organization's philosophy acknowledges that authentic Masonic light can emerge from various traditions and interpretations. This inclusive stance has enabled CLIPSAS to bridge divides between different Masonic traditions while maintaining the depth and significance of Masonic ritual and symbolism. Members engage with Masonic spirituality through their own authentic lens, creating rich dialogues between different interpretations and approaches.

### Gender Equality

CLIPSAS's interpretation of universal brotherhood transcends traditional gender boundaries, recognizing that Masonic light knows no gender. The organization actively supports and recognizes masculine, feminine, and mixed obediences as equally legitimate expressions of Masonic tradition. This position stems from a deep understanding that universal brotherhood encompasses all humanity, challenging centuries of male-exclusive Masonic practice. The organization's commitment to gender equality manifests not only in recognition policies but in active support for feminine and mixed Masonic bodies worldwide. CLIPSAS has played a pivotal role in establishing and strengthening women's participation in Freemasonry, contributing to a more inclusive and representative Masonic community. This stance reflects both philosophical principle and practical commitment to equal opportunity in Masonic development.

### Social Progress

CLIPSAS envisions Freemasonry as a transformative force in society, actively engaging with contemporary challenges while upholding Masonic traditions. The organization's approach to social progress integrates Masonic wisdom with modern humanitarian concerns, creating innovative responses to global challenges. Through coordinated efforts among member obediences, CLIPSAS advances human rights initiatives, supports educational development, and promotes cross-cultural understanding. The organization's social engagement extends beyond traditional charitable works to encompass systematic approaches to social transformation. CLIPSAS members work within their communities to promote education, defend human rights, and foster cultural dialogue. These efforts reflect the organization's understanding that Masonic principles must find practical expression in addressing societal needs and promoting human advancement.

### Philosophical Evolution

CLIPSAS's philosophical framework continues to evolve while maintaining fidelity to its founding principles. The organization engages with contemporary philosophical and social questions through a distinctively Masonic lens, contributing fresh perspectives to both Masonic tradition and modern social discourse. This dynamic approach enables CLIPSAS to remain relevant while preserving the essence of Liberal Masonic thought. Through ongoing philosophical dialogue among its diverse membership, CLIPSAS develops new insights into perennial Masonic questions while addressing emerging challenges. The organization's philosophical work demonstrates how traditional Masonic wisdom can illuminate contemporary issues while adapting to modern social realities. This balance between tradition and innovation characterizes CLIPSAS's unique contribution to Masonic thought and practice in the twenty-first century.

### The Lisbon Appeal

Building upon the Strasbourg Appeal's foundation, CLIPSAS issued the Lisbon Appeal, addressing contemporary challenges. This document emphasizes:
   That all Earth's inhabitants unite in actions promoting true human solidarity, that they rise against all forms of fundamentalism, against all aggression, against all exclusion, that they work towards the harmonious development of all human beings in freedom of conscience and mutual respect.

## Role in Masonic Recognition and Legitimacy
### Alternative to Anglo-Saxon Recognition

CLIPSAS emerged as a direct response to what Liberal Masonic bodies viewed as overly restrictive and dogmatic recognition policies of Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, particularly those enforced by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). While UGLE and affiliated Conservative Grand Lodges maintain strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership, CLIPSAS established an alternative system of recognition based on freedom of conscience and gender inclusivity. The organization provides Liberal Masonic bodies with a structured framework for mutual recognition that challenges the traditional monopoly of Conservative Masonry over Masonic legitimacy. This system enables Liberal obediences to maintain their philosophical independence while benefiting from international recognition and support.

### Protection Against Irregularity

CLIPSAS maintains rigorous standards for recognizing legitimate Liberal Masonic bodies, distinguishing them from both irregular organizations and Conservative Masonic bodies that may not acknowledge Liberal Masonic practices. The admission process requires thorough verification of Masonic lineage and constitutional establishment, alongside demonstrated commitment to the principles of the Strasbourg Appeal. Each prospective member must prove their adherence to democratic governance structures and financial transparency while maintaining regular initiatic practices. Central to admission is an unwavering commitment to absolute freedom of conscience, setting CLIPSAS members apart from more traditional Masonic bodies.
Beyond providing an alternative to Conservative Masonic recognition, CLIPSAS serves as a bulwark against clandestine Masonry and fraudulent organizations. The organization maintains detailed documentation of legitimate Liberal Masonic bodies and facilitates constant information sharing among members about irregular activities. Member obediences work together to identify and respond to irregular Masonic bodies, while developing and sharing practices that maintain Masonic authenticity. This collaborative approach extends to the verification of visiting members' credentials and the coordination of responses to various forms of Masonic fraud.

### International Coordination

CLIPSAS's international structure strengthens the position of Liberal Masonry globally. Its observer status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) provides additional institutional legitimacy, particularly important when Conservative Masonic bodies challenge the regularity of Liberal practices. Through annual assemblies and regional meetings, the organization facilitates coordination between legitimate Liberal obediences. This includes establishing standardized protocols for inter-visitation, developing mutual recognition agreements, and maintaining shared documentation systems that verify the legitimacy of member organizations.
In response to contemporary challenges, CLIPSAS has developed sophisticated approaches to maintaining Liberal Masonic legitimacy. The organization has implemented digital verification systems for Masonic credentials while establishing comprehensive guidelines for online Masonic presence. These efforts include creating resources for identifying fraudulent organizations and coordinating responses to digital Masonic scams. This modernization ensures that Liberal Masonry maintains its integrity in an increasingly digital world.

### Relationship with Conservative Masonry

While CLIPSAS maintains cooperative relationships where possible, it fundamentally exists as an alternative to Conservative Masonic recognition systems. The organization empowers Liberal Masonic bodies to assert their legitimacy independently of Conservative recognition while maintaining philosophical and practical autonomy. This independence allows member obediences to develop alternative approaches to Masonic tradition and challenge exclusionary practices in mainstream Freemasonry. This position has sometimes led to tensions with Conservative Masonic bodies, particularly regarding recognition of feminine and mixed obediences. However, CLIPSAS maintains that diversity in Masonic practice strengthens rather than weakens the Craft, advocating for a more inclusive and progressive interpretation of Masonic tradition. Through its structured approach to recognition and legitimacy, CLIPSAS provides a counterbalance to Conservative Masonic influence while protecting the integrity of Liberal Masonic practice worldwide.

## Current Member Obediences

As of 2024, CLIPSAS includes over 100 member obediences. Below is a comprehensive, current list organized by region:

### Europe

| Flag | Official Name | English Name | Country | Admission Date | Type | Status |
| Austria | Grand Orient von Österreich | Grand Orient of Austria | Austria | 1961 | Masculine | Founding member |
| Austria | Großloge Humanitas Österreich | Grande Loge Libérale d'Autriche | Austria | 2011 | Mixed | Active |
| Bulgaria | Обединена Велика ложа на България | United Grand Lodge of Bulgaria | Bulgaria | 2014 | Mixed | Active |
| Croatia | Velika Nacionalna Loža Hrvatske | National Grand Lodge of Croatia | Croatia | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Denmark | Den Danske Storloge | Grande Loge du Danemark | Denmark | 1970 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Mixte de France | Grand Mixed Lodge of France | France | 1984 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Féminine de France | Women's Grand Lodge of France | France | 1985 | Feminine | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Française de Memphis-Misraïm | French Grand Lodge of Memphis-Misraim | France | 1991 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Féminine de Memphis-Misraïm | Women's Grand Lodge of Memphis-Misraim | France | 1992 | Feminine | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Indépendante et Souveraine des Rites Unis | Independent and Sovereign Grand Lodge of United Rites | France | 2008 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Mixte Souveraine | Sovereign Mixed Grand Lodge | France | 2014 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Symbolique travaillant au Rite Écossais Primitif | Symbolic Grand Lodge working the Primitive Scottish Rite | France | 2014 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge des Cultures et de la Spiritualité | Grand Lodge of Cultures and Spirituality | France | 2014 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Mixte Nationale | National Mixed Grand Lodge | France | 2015 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Grande Loge Française de Misraïm | French Grand Lodge of Misraim | France | 2019 | Mixed | Active |
| France | Fédération Memphis-Misraim | Memphis-Misraim Federation | France | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Germany | Humanitas Freimaurergroßloge für Frauen und Männer in Deutschland | Humanitas Grand Lodge for Women and Men in Germany | Germany | 1987 | Mixed | Active |
| Greece | Υπέρτατη Μεγάλη Στοά της Ελλάδος | Serenissime Grand Orient of Greece | Greece | 1996 | Mixed | Active |
| Greece | Μικτή Μεγάλη Στοά της Ελλάδος | Mixed Grand Orient of Greece | Greece | 2002 | Mixed | Active |
| Greece | Διεθνές Τεκτονικό Τάγμα Δελφών | Masonic International Order Delphi | Greece | 2001 | Mixed | Active |
| Italy | Gran Loggia Massonica Femminile d'Italia | Women's Grand Lodge of Italy | Italy | 1995 | Feminine | Active |
| Italy | Centro Attività Massoniche Esoteriche Accettate | Center for Accepted Masonic Esoteric Activities | Italy | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Italy | Sovrano Ordine Massonico d'Italia | Sovereign Masonic Order of Italy | Italy | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Italy | Ordine Massonico Tradizionale Italiano | Traditional Italian Masonic Order | Italy | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Italy | Gran Loggia Liberale D'Italia | Liberal Grand Lodge of Italy | Italy | 2023 | Mixed | Active |
| Italy | Gran Loggia D'Italia Di Rito Scozzese | Grand Lodge of Italy of the Scottish Rite | Italy | 2023 | Mixed | Active |
| Luxembourg | Grand Orient de Luxembourg | Grand Orient of Luxembourg | Luxembourg | 1961 | Masculine | Founding member |
| Portugal | Grande Oriente Lusitano | Grand Orient of Lusitania | Portugal | 1985 | Mixed | Active |
| Portugal | Grande Loja Simbólica de Portugal | Symbolic Grand Lodge of Portugal | Portugal | 2015 | Mixed | Active |
| Portugal | Grande Loja Symbolica da Lusitania | Symbolic Grand Lodge of Lusitania | Portugal | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Romania | Grande Loge Féminine de Roumanie | Women's Grand Lodge of Romania | Romania | 2006 | Feminine | Active |
| Romania | Grand Orient de Roumanie | Grand Orient of Romania | Romania | 2009 | Mixed | Active |
| Romania | Grande Loge Nationale Unie de Roumanie | United National Grand Lodge of Romania | Romania | 2009 | Mixed | Active |
| Serbia | Либерална велика ложа Србије | Liberal Grand Lodge of Serbia | Serbia | 2023 | Mixed | Active |
| Slovenia | Veliki Orient Slovenije | Grand Orient of Slovenia | Slovenia | 2016 | Mixed | Active |
| Spain | Serenísima Gran Logia de Lengua Española | Most Serene Grand Lodge of Spanish Language | Spain | 1961 | Mixed | Founding member |
| Spain | Gran Logia Simbólica Española | Spanish Symbolic Grand Lodge | Spain | 1983 | Mixed | Active |
| Spain | Gran Oriente Ibérico | Iberian Grand Orient | Spain | 2012 | Mixed | Active |
| Switzerland | Grand Orient de Suisse | Grand Orient of Switzerland | Switzerland | 1961 | Masculine | Founding member |

### Americas

| Flag | Official Name | English Name | Country | Admission Date | Type | Status |
| Argentina | Gran Logia Femenina de Argentina | Women's Grand Lodge of Argentina | Argentina | 2004 | Feminine | Active |
| Argentina | Gran Oriente Federal de la República Argentina | Federal Grand Orient of the Argentine Republic | Argentina | 2009 | Mixed | Active |
| Bolivia | Gran Logia de Cochabamba Bolivia "Funlomasbo" | Grand Lodge of Cochabamba Bolivia | Bolivia | 2018 | Mixed | Active |
| Brazil | Grande Loja Unida do Paraná | United Grand Lodge of Paraná | Brazil | 1995 | Mixed | Active |
| Brazil | Grande Oriente Nacional "Glória do Ocidente" do Brasil | National Grand Orient "Glory of the West" of Brazil | Brazil | 1998 | Mixed | Active |
| Brazil | Grande Loja Feminina do Brasil | Women's Grand Lodge of Brazil | Brazil | 2010 | Feminine | Active |
| Brazil | Grande Loja Unida de Santa Catarina | United Grand Lodge of Santa Catarina | Brazil | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Brazil | Grande Oriente Maçônico Pan-Americano | Pan-American Masonic Grand Orient | Brazil | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Chile | Gran Logia Mixta de Chile | Mixed Grand Lodge of Chile | Chile | 1991 | Mixed | Active |
| Chile | Gran Logia Femenina de Chile | Women's Grand Lodge of Chile | Chile | 1994 | Feminine | Active |
| Chile | Grande Oriente Masónico Chileno | Chilean Masonic Grand Orient | Chile | 2004 | Mixed | Active |
| Colombia | Gran Logia del Norte de Colombia | Grand Lodge of Northern Colombia | Colombia | 2000 | Mixed | Active |
| Colombia | Gran Logia Central de Colombia | Central Grand Lodge of Colombia | Colombia | 2003 | Mixed | Active |
| Colombia | Federación Colombiana de Logias Masónicas | Colombian Federation of Masonic Lodges | Colombia | 2010 | Mixed | Active |
| Ecuador | Gran Oriente Ecuatoriano Nueva Era | Ecuadorian Grand Orient New Era | Ecuador | 2013 | Mixed | Active |
| Haiti | Grande Loge Haïtienne de St-Jean des Orients d'Outre-Mer | Haitian Grand Lodge of St. John of Overseas Orients | Haiti | 1985 | Mixed | Active |
| Haiti | Grande Loge d'Haiti 1961 | Grand Lodge of Haiti 1961 | Haiti | 1987 | Mixed | Active |
| Mexico | Gran Oriente Nacional Mexicano | Mexican National Grand Orient | Mexico | 2023 | Mixed | Active |
| Peru | Gran Logia Constitucional del Perú | Constitutional Grand Lodge of Peru | Peru | 2009 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | George Washington Union | George Washington Union | USA | 1979 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | Omega Grand Lodge of the State of New York | Omega Grand Lodge of New York | USA | 1982 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | Gran Logia Hiram Habif | Hiram Habif Grand Lodge | USA | 2009 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | South Carolina Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons | SC Grand Lodge AF&AM | USA | 2015 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | Gran Logia Universal de Habla Hispana en los Estados Unidos de América | Universal Grand Lodge of Spanish Language in USA | USA | 2016 | Mixed | Active |
| United States | The Most Worshipful NY Grand Lodge | MW NY Grand Lodge | USA | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Uruguay | Gran Oriente de la Franc-Masonería del Uruguay | Grand Orient of Freemasonry of Uruguay | Uruguay | 2008 | Mixed | Active |
| Venezuela | Gran Logia Soberana de Venezuela | Sovereign Grand Lodge of Venezuela | Venezuela | 2011 | Mixed | Active |

### Africa

| Flag | Official Name | English Name | Country | Admission Date | Type | Status |
| Cameroon | Grande Loge Féminine du Cameroun | Women's Grand Lodge of Cameroon | Cameroon | 2022 | Feminine | Active |
| Republic of the Congo | Grande Orient & Loge Associés du Congo | Grand Orient & Associated Lodge of Congo | Congo | 1989 | Mixed | Active |
| Republic of the Congo | Grand Orient du Congo-Brazzaville | Grand Orient of Congo-Brazzaville | Congo | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Ivory Coast | Grande Eburnie | Grand Eburnie | Ivory Coast | 1992 | Mixed | Active |
| Ivory Coast | Grande Loge Symbolique Ivoirienne | Ivorian Symbolic Grand Lodge | Ivory Coast | 2022 | Mixed | Active |
| Madagascar | Grand Rite Malagasy Féminin | Malagasy Women's Grand Rite | Madagascar | 2003 | Feminine | Active |
| Morocco | Grande Loge du Maroc | Grand Lodge of Morocco | Morocco | 2008 | Mixed | Active |
| Morocco | Grande Loge Féminine du Maroc | Women's Grand Lodge of Morocco | Morocco | 2015 | Feminine | Active |
| Senegal | Grande Loge Traditionnelle et Symbolique d'Afrique | Traditional and Symbolic Grand Lodge of Africa | Senegal | 2016 | Mixed | Active |

### Middle East and Asia

| Flag | Official Name | English Name | Country | Admission Date | Type | Status |
| Lebanon | Grande Loge Centrale du Liban | Central Grand Lodge of Lebanon | Lebanon | 2002 | Mixed | Active |
| Lebanon | Grande Loge des Cèdres | Grand Lodge of the Cedars | Lebanon | 2003 | Mixed | Active |
| Lebanon | Grande Loge Bet-El | Bet-El Grand Lodge | Lebanon | 2005 | Mixed | Active |
| Lebanon | Grande Loge Unie du Liban | United Grand Lodge of Lebanon | Lebanon | 2011 | Mixed | Active |
| Lebanon | Grande Loge Mixte du Liban | Mixed Grand Lodge of Lebanon | Lebanon | 2016 | Mixed | Active |
| Lebanon | Grand Orient de Canaan | Grand Orient of Canaan | Lebanon | 2017 | Mixed | Active |
| Russia | Великий Восток Народов России | Grand Orient of Peoples of Russia | Russia | 2015 | Mixed | Active |
| Turkey | Türkiye Liberal Büyük Locasi | Liberal Grand Lodge of Turkey | Turkey | 1989 | Mixed | Active |
| Turkey | Türkiye Kadın Büyük Locasi | Women's Grand Lodge of Turkey | Turkey | 1993 | Feminine | Active |

### International Organizations

| Scope | Official Name | English Name | Admission Date | Type | Status |
| West Africa | Fédération Ouest-Africaine du Droit Humain | West African Federation of Le Droit Humain | 2016 | Mixed | Active |

### Former Members

| Flag | Official Name | English Name | Country | Years Active in CLIPSAS | Type | Status |
| Belgium | Grand Orient de Belgique | Grand Orient of Belgium | Belgium | 1961-2019 | Masculine | Founding member, Left |
| France | Grand Orient de France | Grand Orient of France | France | 1961-2019 | Masculine | Founding member, Left |
| Italy | Gran Loggia d'Italia | Grand Lodge of Italy | Italy | 1961-2021 | Mixed | Founding member, Left |
| Belgium | Grande Loge Féminine de Belgique | Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium | Belgium | 1984-2020 | Feminine | Left |
| France | Fédération française du Droit Humain | French Federation of Le Droit Humain | France | 1983-2018 | Mixed | Left |

### Recent Additions

Notable obediences joining since 2022:
* Grande Loge Féminine du Cameroun (2022)
* Grand Orient National Mexicain (2023)
* Gran Loggia D'Italia Di Rito Scozzese (2023)
* Liberal Grand Lodge of Serbia (2023)

## International Activities
### UN ECOSOC Engagement

Through its observer status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council, CLIPSAS maintains a significant presence in international advocacy work. The organization regularly participates in ECOSOC sessions, where it contributes meaningful perspectives to discussions on human rights and civil society development. This platform enables CLIPSAS to advocate for freedom of association at the highest international levels while promoting cultural dialogue between diverse communities. The organization's representatives frequently engage with other NGOs and UN bodies, leveraging these relationships to advance their humanitarian and social justice objectives.

### Humanitarian Initiatives

CLIPSAS coordinates an extensive network of humanitarian projects through its member obediences worldwide. In developing nations, the organization supports comprehensive educational programs that range from basic literacy initiatives to advanced professional training. Its healthcare initiatives span multiple continents, focusing on both immediate medical assistance and long-term healthcare infrastructure development. When natural disasters strike, CLIPSAS mobilizes its international network for coordinated relief efforts, providing both immediate aid and long-term recovery support. The organization also maintains several cultural preservation projects, working to protect historical sites and traditional practices while promoting cross-cultural understanding.

### Annual Conventions

The CLIPSAS annual conventions serve as crucial gathering points for the global Liberal Masonic community. These multi-day events transcend simple administrative meetings, evolving into comprehensive forums for intellectual and cultural exchange. The administrative sessions address organizational governance and strategic planning, while academic colloquia provide platforms for scholarly discussion of Masonic philosophy, history, and contemporary social issues. Cultural exchange programs during these conventions foster deeper understanding between member obediences from different regions and traditions. Strategic planning meetings focus on developing long-term initiatives and responding to emerging global challenges. These conventions often result in joint declarations or initiatives that shape the organization's direction and impact on international Masonic relations.
The conventions frequently rotate between different host countries, allowing member obediences to showcase their unique Masonic traditions and cultural heritage while strengthening the bonds of universal brotherhood. These gatherings have become instrumental in maintaining the organization's cohesion and advancing its mission of promoting Liberal Freemasonry worldwide.

## Controversies and Criticism
### Electoral Controversy of 2024

The 2024 General Assembly in Durrës, Albania, marked a significant crisis in CLIPSAS's history. The controversial election of Louis Daly as president, winning with only 32.06% of votes, led to immediate protests from multiple member obediences. The dispute centered on Article 14 of CLIPSAS's regulations, which states mandates are "three years non-renewable." Daly's eligibility was contested due to his previous tenure in the organization's leadership. The situation escalated when outgoing president Ivan Herrera Michel declared Daly's victory despite vocal opposition and without following traditional procedures requiring a majority above 50%. This decision prompted the immediate withdrawal of several prominent obediences from the assembly, including the Grande Loge Féminine de France, Grande Loge Mixte de France, and the Grande Loge Symbolique Espagnole.

### Governance Issues

Critics have highlighted systemic problems in CLIPSAS's governance structure, particularly the absence of a formal commission for validating presidential candidacies. The organization has also faced scrutiny over its financial transparency, notably regarding the requirement for cash-only payments at official events, as evidenced during the 2024 assembly where participation fees of €250 were mandated in cash.

### Press Freedom Concerns

In 2024, CLIPSAS leadership attempted to pursue legal action against Masonic media outlets reporting on internal controversies, raising concerns about the organization's commitment to press freedom. This action particularly targeted coverage of electoral processes and organizational transparency issues.

### Organizational Challenges

The 2024 General Assembly highlighted significant operational deficiencies:
* Inadequate facilities management in Durrës
* Unclear protocols for observer obediences
* Contested admission processes for new members
* Lack of transparent financial reporting

### Impact and Response

Following the 2024 controversies, over fifteen member obediences withdrew from assembly proceedings. This unprecedented protest has raised questions about CLIPSAS's future effectiveness as an international coordinating body for Liberal Freemasonry. Some member obediences have called for comprehensive reforms of the organization's governance structure and electoral procedures.