The Open Society Institute works to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. Open societies are characterized by the rule of law; respect for human rights, minorities, and a diversity of opinions; democratically elected governments; market economies in which business and government are separate; and a civil society that helps keep government power in check.

To achieve its mission, OSI seeks to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, OSI implements a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, OSI builds alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. OSI places a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of marginalized people and communities.

The following brochure features a few selected stories from 2006. Some of the stories are about OSI’s grantees and people OSI helped. Other stories are about larger issues and policies OSI is trying to improve. Together the stories represent just a small fraction of the work OSI and the Soros foundations accomplished in 2006.

Related Information OSI Brochure: A Record of Achievement January 2006 This brochure features selected OSI activities and achievements in the areas of freedom and democracy, human rights, education, public health, and transparency. more Soros Foundations Network 2006 Annual Report This comprehensive survey focuses on the stories of people helped by OSI’s work on issues ranging from human rights, to access to education, to freedom of information, to public health.  more