About Open Society Foundations

Open Society Foundations is a global philanthropic organization founded by George Soros that supports independent groups and individuals working to advance rights, equity and justice. Soros began his philanthropic work in 1979, initially supporting scholarships for Black students in apartheid-era South Africa and for Eastern European dissidents. The foundation has since expanded its work across Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe and Central Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East and North Africa, and the United States. Its grantmaking focuses on democratic governance, human rights, justice, economic opportunity, equality, public health, education, journalism and other efforts that strengthen open and inclusive societies.

The foundation provides grants to organizations and individuals through a global network and also uses research, advocacy, strategic litigation and impact investment to pursue its goals. It emphasizes locally informed approaches and supports groups working to make communities fairer, more inclusive and accountable. George Soros has provided more than $32 billion of his personal fortune to fund the foundations' work since the beginning of his philanthropic activities, while Alex Soros serves as chair of the board.