Funder
Open Society Foundations
Open Society Foundations (OSF) is presented as a major philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing human rights, justice, and equitable societies, and building vibrant, inclusive democracies whose governments are accountable to their people. Core areas of focus include rights and dignity, democratic practice, equity in governance, free speech, criminal justice reform, minority and refugee rights, and inclusive economic agendas. The funder explicitly supports civil society, public intellectuals, legal reform, and policy change, frequently applying a systemic, rights-first lens to cross-cutting issues like climate change and economic justice.
- storyNew2026
On April 15, our Pedro Vieira Abramovay and Laura Carvalho join Foreign Policy’s Geoeconomics Forum 2026: Solutions for
Sponsored by us, the forum takes place on the side of the Spring Meetings of the IMG and World Bank.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The Case for Protecting Human Rights Defenders in the Sahel Region of West Africa
The Sahel region of West Africa has seen increasing repression, especially against lawyers, journalists, and civil society activists who speak out, expose wrongdoing, and protest peacefully, writes Open Society’s Adama Dembele.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Land Defenders in Colombia.pdf
Colombia has suffered the highest number of murders of environmental defenders for three years in a row.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Congratulations to Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee for being named one of Washington DC’s 500 Most Influential
Congratulations to Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee for being named one of Washington DC’s 500 Most Influential People of 2026 by Washingtonian Magazine!
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Fifteen years ago today, widespread pro-democracy protests erupted across Syria, with Syrians demanding dignity, human r
Fifteen years ago today, widespread pro-democracy protests erupted across Syria, with Syrians demanding dignity, human rights, and a future free from repression.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
We’re proud to support this lawsuit against telecoms giant Telenor to get justice for customers in Myanmar whose sensiti
We’re proud to support this lawsuit against telecoms giant Telenor to get justice for customers in Myanmar whose sensitive data was shared with the Myanmar military during its crackdown on activists following the 2021 coup.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Global South Countries Can Lead the Way Out of Crisis
ceasefire, hundreds of ships stranded in the now reopened Strait of Hormuz, and the decline of U.S.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
📅 Today starting at 2pm EDT: The war in the Middle East is impacting countries around the world and has put a clear foc
📅 Today starting at 2pm EDT: The war in the Middle East is impacting countries around the world and has put a clear focus on geoeconomics.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
All Human Beings, Including Trans People, Are Born Free and Equal in Dignity and Rights
#OpenSociety #TransDayOfVisibility #TDOV #HumanRights #TransRights [Text in the post's slides] Did you know that when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was being drafted, there was disagreement over the first sentence?
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Today kicks off #EarthWeek. We’ll be sharing some of our favorite stories spotlighting the communities at the forefront
We’ll be sharing some of our favorite stories spotlighting the communities at the forefront of climate change and the coordinated efforts needed to ensure policies benefit everyone.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Open Society Fellowship Spotlight: Tosin Oshinowo.pdf
An architect, designer, and a curator, Open Society Fellow Tosin Oshinowo’s project is focused on African urbanism.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The Global Ethical Stocktake at COP30 looked at climate progress not just through a technical lens, but through an ethic
The Global Ethical Stocktake at COP30 looked at climate progress not just through a technical lens, but through an ethical one, looking at responsibility, equity, planetary stewardship, and the protection of vulnerable communities.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Countries Investing Heavily in Green Energy Have Weathered the Fuel Crisis Better
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has left the world feeling the shocks of higher costs—especially for fuel—as a vital sea lane for global trade has been blocked.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
On day 2 of #EarthWeek, we’re answering how countries can address both economic growth and climate change.
On day 2 of #EarthWeek, we’re answering how countries can address both economic growth and climate change.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
How Communities in Nigeria Are Working to Break a Cycle of Violence.pdf
In Benue State, Nigeria, communities are working to break a cycle of violence with a new model of public safety.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
On #EarthDay, we’re lifting up the tireless efforts by civil society in Latin America and the Caribbean in the developme
On #EarthDay, we’re lifting up the tireless efforts by civil society in Latin America and the Caribbean in the development of the Escazú Agreement.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Behind the blooms: how the global flower trade poisons workers.pdf
Cut flowers have become a significant part of Ecuador’s economy in recent years, with nearly half the population in the Cayambe region involved in the sector.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
For #EarthWeek, we’re spotlighting a project from Štip, North Macedonia, that went beyond installing solar panels and be
For #EarthWeek, we’re spotlighting a project from Štip, North Macedonia, that went beyond installing solar panels and became the first in the country to establish a local energy community.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
“The Trump administration’s contempt for fundamental norms has provoked much hand-wringing. But it should serve as a wak
“The Trump administration’s contempt for fundamental norms has provoked much hand-wringing.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
For more than 50 years, the Southern Poverty Law Center has endeavored to protect those most vulnerable to hate, safegua
For more than 50 years, the Southern Poverty Law Center has endeavored to protect those most vulnerable to hate, safeguard communities, and advance the principle that every person in this country deserves dignity and equal treatment.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Prejudice, dehumanization, and violence against Muslims and Jews––fueled by deep injustices in the Middle East––have led
Prejudice, dehumanization, and violence against Muslims and Jews––fueled by deep injustices in the Middle East––have led to corrosive hate.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
$30 Million to Counter Antisemitism and Anti-Muslim Hate
That’s why we’re announcing a new $30 million investment to address an alarming surge of antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate in the United States and around the world.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Can tech workers take on the oligarchs?
In 2022, after Elon Musk bought Twitter, tech workers turned union organizers JS Tan and Clarissa Redwine made a failed attempt to unionize the company’s workers.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Happy Pride Month 🏳️🌈!
We’re celebrating LGBTQI+ wins from across the world that are expanding protections, upholding fundamental human rights, and ensuring justice for everyone.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego is not an isolated incident. It follows a long and painful line of violent
The attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego is not an isolated incident.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Nature-based solutions not only address climate change, but they also drive inclusive local economies.
Nature-based solutions not only address climate change, but they also drive inclusive local economies.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Every American should be able to live, work, and care for their families—yet costs are soaring, freedoms are under attac
Every American should be able to live, work, and care for their families—yet costs are soaring, freedoms are under attack, and too many people are struggling to make ends meet.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The future of human rights is being written by a new generation of advocates. Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee d
The future of human rights is being written by a new generation of advocates.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
$300 Million to Advance Economic Security and Defend Civil Liberties in the U.S.
We are proud to announce a bold new $300 million initiative to improve the daily lives of Americans and stand up for the rule of law while strengthening rights and freedoms under attack across the United States.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Our recently announced anti-hate initiative focuses on confronting antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate together as we supp
Our recently announced anti-hate initiative focuses on confronting antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate together as we support efforts to protect communities, build bridges, and safeguard lawful expression and free debate.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
At Central European University in Vienna, Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee spoke to where rights come from.
At Central European University in Vienna, Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee spoke to where rights come from.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Why We're Suing to Defend the International Criminal Court.pdf
On October 9, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) itself—the court of last resort for victims of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Anti-Muslim Hate and Antisemitism Are Twin Crises. We Must Confront Them Together
Recent events, including the fatal shooting at a mosque in San Diego and stabbings targeting the Jewish community in London, show how the demonization of faith communities can deepen divisions in society and lead to terrible violence.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Six years since the Beirut Explosion, Nation Station continues to respond.pdf
We are proud to support the work of Nation Station, a grassroots initiative born in response to the Beirut Port explosion in 2020 that continues to show up for its communities.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The U.S. Has Deported Thousands to Third Countries. This Must Stop
The United States under the Trump administration is deporting thousands of asylum seekers and people seeking protection to third countries, where they often haven’t been, don’t speak the language, and don’t have family or friends as a support network—in violation of the U.S.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Mexico City's Utopias A Model for Social Transformation
Mexico City’s Utopías are reclaiming public spaces for social transformation based on human dignity, community building, and the exercise of rights.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
“If we want to stop future wars, we must punish the states and their political and military leadership for starting them
“If we want to stop future wars, we must punish the states and their political and military leadership for starting them,” writes Oleksandra Matviichuk.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
In a lawsuit filed today, the Open Society Justice Initiative is representing Kimberly Prost, one of the International C
In a lawsuit filed today, the Open Society Justice Initiative is representing Kimberly Prost, one of the International Criminal Court (ICC) judges who are subject to U.S.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Punishing people who use illegal drugs doesn’t work—and only worsens health, racial, and economic inequities.
Punishing people who use illegal drugs doesn’t work—and only worsens health, racial, and economic inequities.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Birthright Citizenship
Supreme Court’s ruling that upholds what has been in the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution since 1868: “[a]ll persons born….in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.” The court’s decision in Trump v.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Open Society Fellow Spotlight: Camille Ammoun.pdf
Open Society Fellow Camille Ammoun is a writer and policy advisor who works on urban development, climate change, and political economy.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
We mourn the passing of Emma Bonino, a former Open Society board member. She was a tireless advocate for human rights. M
We mourn the passing of Emma Bonino, a former Open Society board member.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Meet The Organizations Championing LGBTQIA+ Rights, Equality, and Justice in the Caribbean
The Caribbean has had a history of hostility toward the LGBQTIA+ population since colonial rule, when “buggery laws” criminalizing same-sex relationships were first established.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Open Society's Deprose Muchena explains how Africa can turn its mineral wealth into long-term public value, including su
Open Society's Deprose Muchena explains how Africa can turn its mineral wealth into long-term public value, including supporting economic transformation, strengthening strategic agency, and ensuring communities benefit from the resources.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Twenty-five years ago on September 11, America changed forever. Open Society’s Laleh Ispahani remembers it as a horrific
Twenty-five years ago on September 11, America changed forever.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Our History of Human Rights Litigation, Advocacy, and Legal Empowerment
For over two decades, the Open Society Justice Initiative has been using the law to advance justice and human rights globally.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
States must comply with obligations set forth by international law. That is what is being argued in a landmark case file
States must comply with obligations set forth by international law.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
$1.5 Million Rebuilding Fund for Earthquake Recovery in Colombia
An earthquake in Colombia’s Pacific region has taken more than 300 lives and left over 30,000 families without homes.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
For many Americans, the 250th anniversary of the nation’s independence is a complicated moment, writes our Laleh Ispahan
For many Americans, the 250th anniversary of the nation’s independence is a complicated moment, writes our Laleh Ispahani in The Contrarian.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
We’re proud to share this success by our partner Foxglove, a tech accountability organization, who just led a major effo
We’re proud to share this success by our partner Foxglove, a tech accountability organization, who just led a major effort for publishers against Google's AI empire.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
As demand for critical minerals continues to grow, Africa faces a defining question: how can the continent turn its mine
As demand for critical minerals continues to grow, Africa faces a defining question: how can the continent turn its mineral wealth into jobs, industrial growth, and long-term development?
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
How Local Journalism Is Helping Communities After Colombia's Earthquake.pdfHow Local Journalism Is Helping Communities After Colombia's Earthquake
On August 10, a powerful 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia, killing at least 280 people—with thousands more injured or missing.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Political financing reform “is not just about regulation. It’s about building systems that make politics more accountabl
It’s about building systems that make politics more accountable, more inclusive, and—mostly—more trusted by citizens,” says Open Society President Binaifer Nowrojee to Daily Nation.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Hear from our Jim Goldston, who leads the Open Society Justice Initiative, explaining why reconnecting international law
Hear from our Jim Goldston, who leads the Open Society Justice Initiative, explaining why reconnecting international law to ordinary people’s lives is vital to protect it.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Barco Regatão—Tapajós: Corridor of Living Cultures
In June, we supported the third annual Barco Regatão—Tapajós: Corridor of Living Cultures, an initiative led by our grantee Instituto Regatão Amazônia.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Ukraine’s Veterans Can Drive the Country’s Recovery
Amid ongoing Russian aggression, many Ukrainian veterans are playing key roles in politics, business, and civil society, including establishing civic organizations and veteran associations.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The Jakarta Agenda on Critical Minerals and Green Industrialization sets out a framework for collective action across th
The Jakarta Agenda on Critical Minerals and Green Industrialization sets out a framework for collective action across the Global South, strengthening cooperation and knowledge exchange to help resource-rich countries create greater value and opportunity at home.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Today we joined the American Friends Service Committee, Human Rights Watch, and the Center for Constitutional Rights in
Today we joined the American Friends Service Committee, Human Rights Watch, and the Center for Constitutional Rights in challenging a U.S.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
We condemn the Trump administration’s announcement of new sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) as an inst
We condemn the Trump administration’s announcement of new sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) as an institution, an unprecedented escalation of its campaign against the independent court dedicated to ensuring accountability for the gravest crimes.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Too often, the human rights movement has preferred rights in the negative: no to torture, no to censorship, no to detent
Too often, the human rights movement has preferred rights in the negative: no to torture, no to censorship, no to detention without trial.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
An update from Open Society Justice Initiative’s Natasha Arnpriester: The Trump administration’s forced removal of asylu
An update from Open Society Justice Initiative’s Natasha Arnpriester: The Trump administration’s forced removal of asylum seekers and people with U.S.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The rule of law and human rights are vital to open societies.
The rule of law and human rights are vital to open societies.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Thirty years on, South Africa’s hope immediately after apartheid has been dashed as inequality, unemployment, and xenoph
Thirty years on, South Africa’s hope immediately after apartheid has been dashed as inequality, unemployment, and xenophobia remain high.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
In two weeks, world leaders and decision makers will come together in New York for the 81st session of the United Nation
In two weeks, world leaders and decision makers will come together in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at a pivotal moment of change for the United Nations and the international system.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
How can the multilateral system better reflect Global South leadership? How can we center human rights and dignity in th
How can the multilateral system better reflect Global South leadership?
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
A Norwegian court has allowed a lawsuit we are supporting against Telenor to proceed as a class action. The case seeks d
A Norwegian court has allowed a lawsuit we are supporting against Telenor to proceed as a class action.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
A Tribute to Emma Bonino, a Trailblazer for Human Rights
Emma Bonino, the pioneering Italian politician, trailblazing human rights advocate, and a former Open Society board member, died on September 11, 2026, at the age of 78.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The Open Society Foundations today condemned the Trump administration’s announcement of new sanctions on the Internation
“Since its establishment, the International Criminal Court has served as a court of last resort, delivering justice and accountability for victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide when they have nowhere else to turn.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
“We want a new form of social contract where the citizens determine what democracy should deliver for them. And not poli
“We want a new form of social contract where the citizens determine what democracy should deliver for them.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
This week, finance ministers, central bank governors, and thousands of delegates from government, business, and civil so
This week, finance ministers, central bank governors, and thousands of delegates from government, business, and civil society gather in Bangkok for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and The World Bank Group.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
UNGA 81 is an Oppurtunity to Reshape the International System.pdf
UNGA 81 presents an opportunity to bring forward new ideas and perspectives for a changing world.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Seven months into the U.S. war on Iran, fighting has widened and the consequences have spread far beyond Iran’s borders.
war on Iran, fighting has widened and the consequences have spread far beyond Iran’s borders.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The current multilateral world order has struggled against the double standards of great powers, who have stripped multi
The current multilateral world order has struggled against the double standards of great powers, who have stripped multilateral institutions of their influence, shaped the rules to their advantage, and follow them only when it suits.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Every September, one week in New York is madness. Motorcades, flags, speeches, and tired feet. As the leaders of the wor
As the leaders of the world assemble, to discuss the future at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
What has been the trajectory of the human rights movement over the past three decades, and how can we apply those lesson
What has been the trajectory of the human rights movement over the past three decades, and how can we apply those lessons as we look into the future?
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
The IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings are taking place in Bangkok this week, bringing discussions on the global economy to
The IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings are taking place in Bangkok this week, bringing discussions on the global economy to Southeast Asia, a region with experience with industrialization and regional economic integration.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
Tomorrow at 12pm EDT: Where did modern human rights come from? What went right? What went wrong? And what can we learn a
Tomorrow at 12pm EDT: Where did modern human rights come from?
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
“We Want to Speak from Our Identity, as Afro-Descendants of the San Juan River: To Address Ourselves, but Also the World.”
Afro-descendant communities along Colombia’s San Juan River now have a radio station of their own.
linkedin.com - storyNew2026
How can Global South countries have a stronger voice in shaping the ways natural resources, economic policies, and regio
How can Global South countries have a stronger voice in shaping the ways natural resources, economic policies, and regional cooperation better serve the needs of their people?
linkedin.com - coverageUndated
How the Open Society Foundations Fund
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - coverageUndated
A New Approach to Open Society’s Funding
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - otherUndated
Open Society Voices
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - eventUndated
Open Society Events
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - narrativeUndated
A Crucial Advancement Toward Justice for Afghan Women and Girls
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - narrativeUndated
How "Africa Is a Country" Is Reframing Narratives on Africa
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - voiceUndated
History of the Open Society Foundations
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - narrativeUndated
Open Society Publications
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - narrativeUndated
Open Society Newsroom
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - voiceUndated
History of the Open Society Foundations
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - advocacyUndated
Russian Repression Risks Erasing the Crimean Tatars
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - grants dataUndated
Open Society Fellowship
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - guidanceUndated
FAQs: Applying for an Open Society Foundations Grant
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - grants dataUndated
Open Society Foundations - Awarded Grants, Scholarships, and Fellowships
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - grants dataUndated
Grants and Fellowships from the Open Society Foundations
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org - otherUndated
Open Society Foundations
 We value your privacy.
opensocietyfoundations.org