George Soros Open Society Foundation Increases Stake In Amazon and Google

George Soros’ Soros Fund Management disclosed in an SEC filing of its holdings as of June 30, 2023, that it increased its stake in both Amazon and Google.

How Did George Soros Make His Money?

George Soros made his money through his successful investments in financial markets. He is a hedge fund manager and investor who earned his fortune primarily through currency speculation. Soros founded his own hedge fund, Soros Fund Management, in 1970 and became known for his ability to predict market trends and make profitable trades. His most famous trade came in 1992 when he bet against the British pound, earning him a billion-dollar profit in a single day. Apart from investing, Soros has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors and political activism.

What is the Open Society Foundation?

The Open Society Foundations (OSF) is a philanthropic organization founded by billionaire investor and philanthropist George Soros. It was established in 1979 to promote open societies around the world, where governments are accountable and citizens have the freedom to express themselves, participate in decision-making, and pursue their goals. The Open Society Foundations support various initiatives and organizations in areas such as human rights, education, public health, justice reform, and independent media. They work to advance social justice, equality, and human rights by providing funding, advocacy, and support to civil society organizations, activists, and marginalized communities. OSF operates in over 120 countries and regions globally, with a network of foundations, offices, and partners. They aim to empower individuals and communities to address their own challenges, promote democratic governance, and build more inclusive societies. The foundation’s values are based on the ideas of Karl Popper, who introduced the concept of the open society, where tolerance, respect for diversity, and democratic governance are the foundations of a free and just society.

Criticisms of the Open Society Foundation

Criticism of the Open Society Foundation (OSF) is often centered around the perceived political bias and influence of its founder, George Soros, as well as concerns about the organization’s approach to promoting democracy and human rights.

1. Political Bias: One major criticism is that the OSF has a strong political bias, particularly towards promoting progressive and liberal values. Critics argue that this bias can lead to the exclusion of alternative perspectives and the suppression of conservative or right-wing voices. Some also claim that the foundation’s funding is de facto support for left-leaning political causes.

2. Influence and Interference: The OSF’s substantial financial resources have led to concerns about the organization’s potential influence on political processes and civil society. Critics argue that OSF’s funding can be used to advance their own political agenda, potentially distorting local political systems and civil society organizations.

3. Lack of Transparency: Some critics argue that the OSF lacks transparency in its decision-making processes, particularly regarding the allocation of its funds. They claim that the lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine whether the foundation’s activities are truly impartial or driven by specific political goals.

4. Economic Interference: George Soros’ previous financial activities have drawn criticism from those who believe that his involvement in global financial markets, particularly currency speculation, has had negative economic impacts. Critics argue that this undermines the credibility of the OSF’s work and raises questions about its true motives.

5. Overreach and Cultural Imperialism: Some critics argue that the OSF’s efforts to promote democracy and human rights in other countries can be seen as cultural imperialism, as it imposes Western values and preferences on non-Western societies. They argue that these efforts can sometimes undermine local traditions and institutions, leading to unintended consequences.

6. Involvement in Domestic Politics: There have been accusations that the OSF interferes in the domestic politics of countries where it operates. Critics argue that the foundation’s funding of local organizations and support for political causes can be seen as an attempt to shape the political landscape of those countries, potentially violating their sovereignty. The OSF provides grants to organizations and initiatives that aim to end mass incarceration, reduce racial disparities in the criminal justice system, and advocate for policies that prioritize rehabilitation and alternatives to incarceration. While OSF’s funding primarily goes to organizations and initiatives, rather than individual district attorneys, their efforts indirectly contribute to shaping the work and policies of these offices. By supporting criminal justice reform, OSF helps create an environment where progressive district attorneys can thrive and prioritize community well-being over punitive measures.