Open Society Foundations (OSF)

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities. Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Their activities have grown to encompass the United States and more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Each foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities. Their Mission The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people. They seek to strengthen the rule of law; respect for human rights, minorities, and a diversity of opinions; democratically elected governments; and a civil society that helps keep government power in check. They  help to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. They  implement initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. They build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. Working in every part of the world, the Open Society Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities. Their Values They believe in fundamental human rights, dignity, and the rule of law. They believe in a society where all people are free to participate fully in civic, economic, and cultural life. They believe in addressing inequalities that cut across multiple lines, including race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and citizenship. They believe in holding those in power accountable for their actions and in increasing the power of historically excluded groups. They believe in helping people and communities press for change on their own behalf. They believe in responding quickly and flexibly to the most critical threats to open society. They believe in taking on controversial issues and supporting bold, innovative solutions that address root causes and advance systemic change. They believe in encouraging critical debate and respecting diverse opinions.