The Open Society Foundations aim to promote democratic principles, human rights, and justice worldwide. By working at both national and global levels, they engage in advocacy, impact investing, and legal action to support a wide array of groups and individuals across more than 100 countries.
The Soros Justice Fellowships are targeted at individuals committed to reforming the U.S. criminal justice system. These fellowships are designed to support lawyers, advocates, grassroots organizers, journalists, artists, and others with unique perspectives undertaking full-time projects that aim to inform the public, instigate debate, alter policy or practice, and stimulate change at local, state, and national levels. There are two fellowship tracks: Track I for emerging leaders and voices in their fields, offering $100,000 over 18 months, and Track II for seasoned professionals with significant achievements, offering $140,000 over the same period. Projects should ideally commence in the fall and can be pursued with the backing of a host organization. The program encourages a broad range of projects to challenge and contribute to the dialogue around criminal justice reform.