Open Society Foundation

Open Society Foundations (OSF) is an international grant-making network and the world’s largest human rights funder. It was founded by George Soros with the mission to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people.

Our Mission

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people.

We 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.

We help to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights.

We implement initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media.

We 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.

The Open Society Foundations are committed to the global struggle for open society and responding quickly to the challenges and opportunities of the future. The impact made by the Open Society Foundations begins with our workforce. Our diverse and inclusive staff is passionate about cultivating a more democratic, equitable world. For 35 years, weʼve sought applicants who will join us in our pursuit of open society.

What We Do

OSF seeks 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.

We place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.

We build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information.

We help shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems.

We seek to safeguard fundamental rights.

We implement initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media.

Our Values

We believe in:

Fundamental human rights, dignity, and the rule of law.
A society where all people are free to participate fully in civic, economic, and cultural life.
Addressing inequalities that cut across multiple lines, including race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and citizenship.
Holding those in power accountable and increasing the power of historically excluded groups.
Helping people and communities press for change on their own behalf.
Responding quickly and flexibly to the most critical threats to open society.
Taking on controversial issues and supporting bold, innovative ways to advance systemic change.
Critical debate and diverse opinions.