WHO
WE ARE
The Open Society Foundations, founded by George Soros, are the world’s largest private funder of independent groups working for justice, democratic governance, and human rights. We provide thousands of grants every year through a network of national and regional foundations and offices, funding a vast array of projects—many of them now shaped by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
HISTORY
George Soros, the founder of the Open Society Foundations, began his philanthropic work in 1979, funding scholarships for Black African university students in South Africa and for East European dissidents to study in the West. Today, his Foundations fund groups and projects in more than 120 countries.
2018
Starting to Build a More Open World
2019
Starting to Build a More Open World
2020
Starting to Build a More Open World
2021
Starting to Build a More Open World
2022
Starting to Build a More Open World
2023
Starting to Build a More Open World
MISSION
We believe that the solutions to the national, regional, and global challenges we face demand the free exchange of ideas and thought, and that everyone should have a voice in shaping the policies that affect them.
We therefore work to build vibrant and inclusive societies, grounded in respect for human rights and the rule of law, whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people.
We do this by supporting a diverse array of independent voices and independent organizations around the world—the civil society that provides a creative and dynamic link between the governing and the governed.
We have a special focus on supporting those who face discrimination purely for who they are, such as Europe’s Roma people, and for those who find themselves pushed to the margins of mainstream society—such as drug users, prisoners, or sex workers.
FINANCIALS
The Open Society Foundations are the largest private human rights funder in the world, working to build vibrant and inclusive democracies whose governments are accountable to their people. Since its inception, the Open Society Foundations have had expenditures of more than $18 billion.
$18.1B
Expenditures to Date
$1.4B
Total 2020 Expenditures
20.5%
Geographic Programs
2020 Expenditures
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
$235.9M
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100
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LEADERSHIP
George Soros
Founder
George Soros launched his philanthropic work in South Africa in 1979. Since then he has given over $32 billion to fund the Open Society Foundations, which work in over 120 countries around the world.
George Soros
Founder
George Soros launched his philanthropic work in South Africa in 1979. Since then he has given over $32 billion to fund the Open Society Foundations, which work in over 120 countries around the.
PROGRAMS
Ensure that workers receive fair payment without discrimination based on gender, race, or other characteristics, promoting social justice and equal opportunities.
OFFICES AND FOUNDATIONS
Protect the health and physical integrity of workers from work-related accidents and illnesses. Ensure safe and healthy working conditions, while also contributing to productivity and sustainability.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ensure economic and social protection, including access to healthcare, education, social assistance, and social security. Reduce poverty, inequality, and promote social justice and economic stability.