The Open Society Foundations was established in 1979 by George Soros to help countries make the transition from communism.


The mission of the foundation is to work to build vibrant and tolerant society whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of the people. They seek to strengthen the rule of law, to shape public policies, to implement initiatives, and to build alliances across borders and continents.



Working in various parts of the world, the foundation places high priority on protecting and improving lives of people in marginalized communities.