The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a prominent nonprofit dedicated to defending civil liberties in the digital realm, is poised for a significant leadership transition. Cindy Cohn, who has been at the helm as Executive Director for a decade and with the organization for over 25 years, announced her intention to step down by mid-2026. This decision comes at a pivotal moment as EFF intensifies its advocacy on pressing issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) and government surveillance practices, particularly those involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Cohn’s tenure has been marked by steadfast commitment to digital rights. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “It’s been the honor of my life to help EFF grow and become the strong, effective organization it is today, but it’s time to make space for new leadership.” She expressed a desire to re-engage more directly in civil liberties advocacy beyond administrative responsibilities. ([eff.org](https://www.eff.org/press/releases/executive-director-cindy-cohn-will-step-down-after-25-years-eff?utm_source=openai))
Under Cohn’s leadership, EFF has confronted numerous challenges, notably the escalating use of technology by government agencies like ICE. The organization has been vocal against the deployment of surveillance tools that infringe upon individual privacy and civil liberties. In January 2026, EFF participated in a national shutdown to protest the actions of ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), highlighting the agencies’ alleged brutality and terror inflicted on immigrant communities and their supporters. ([eff.org](https://www.eff.org/?language=en&utm_source=openai))
Simultaneously, EFF has been actively addressing the implications of AI technologies. The organization emphasizes the necessity of scrutinizing both the benefits and potential harms of AI, advocating for policies that protect user rights and prevent misuse. ([eff.org](https://www.eff.org/?language=en&utm_source=openai))
As EFF embarks on the search for new leadership, the organization remains committed to its mission of defending digital privacy, free speech, and innovation. The forthcoming transition is viewed as an opportunity to infuse fresh perspectives into the ongoing fight for digital rights, ensuring that EFF continues to adapt and respond effectively to the evolving technological landscape.