what we do
The Open Society Foundations are active in more than 120 countries around the world. Our national and regional foundations and thematic programs give thousands of grants every year towards building inclusive and vibrant democracies. Our vision is a call for change—change in the way we think about others, and in the ways we work together.
Where We Work
Themes
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Democratic Practice
The Open Society Foundations support efforts to engage citizens not just in voting, but in ensuring that governments respond to the challenges of the day and the needs of all their people.
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Early Childhood and Education
The Open Society Foundations believe all children should have the developmental support they need, and the fullest possible educational opportunities.
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Economic Governance and Advancement
The Open Society Foundations work to promote fiscal and economic development that advances social justice through openness, accountability, and equity.
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Equality and Antidiscrimination
The Open Society Foundations view equal treatment for all—regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, or sexual identity—as a fundamental part of healthy democracies.
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Health and Rights
The Open Society Foundations work to ensure that all people have access to health and human rights.
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Higher Education
The Open Society Foundations’ commitment to higher education is rooted in our founder George Soros’s earliest philanthropic efforts.
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Human Rights Movements and Institutions
The Open Society Foundations fund human rights groups around the world, from global advocacy organizations to smaller national and local groups, that stand up for the rights of all.
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Information and Digital Rights
We support efforts to strengthen freedom of expression, privacy, access to information and antidiscrimination in the digital environment, and to ensure that the rapid evolution of digital technology supports open society values.
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Journalism
The Open Society Foundations recognize that independent journalism serves as a check on abuses of power and corruption, and fuels and informs public debates and critical thinking in societies.
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Justice Reform and the Rule of Law
The Open Society Foundations work to ensure that everyone has access to the protection of the law—and that the law is shaped and employed not as an instrument of power, but in the service of justice.
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