Staff Reports
The decision by the Open Society Foundations to reduce its spending and staff in Europe has raised concern among its beneficiaries. They claim that this move could have a negative effect on the organization's reputation and human rights. The leaders of the foundations have told staff members in Brussels and Berlin that they would be reducing their workforce by 60% and 80% respectively. Other OSF offices in Barcelona and London have also reportedly been informed that they will be closing.
The OSF's decision to lay off many of its employees is a departure from George Soros' long-standing support for human rights, education, and other policies. Many of the organization's staff members are not sure why they are being let go, and they are angry at how the decision was made.
In December, George Soros' son, Alex, became the new head of OSF's board of directors. In June, the organization announced that it would be transitioning to an operating model that is more focused on the US. Some believe that this shift in strategy is due to Alex's desire to support projects in the country instead of abroad. In the past, he has been criticized for funding liberal prosecutors in various cities.
On June 28, the OSF adopted a new operating model, which shifted the focus of the foundations away from specific programs and toward opportunities. This lack of clear priorities has raised concerns among the organization's staff members.
Some of the beneficiaries of the OSF have expressed their concerns about the organization's decision to cease its support. They fear that non-profit organizations will be unable to receive timely and flexible funding if the foundation stops its programs. They also worry that right-wing groups will gain ground in Europe without the OSF's influence.
The decision by the Open Society Foundations to reduce its spending and staff in Europe has raised concern among its beneficiaries. Although the exact effects of this move are still unknown, some believe that it could have a negative impact on the progressive causes and human rights in the continent.
