
Washington, D.C – Renowned American investor and philanthropist George Soros has been honored with the esteemed Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“We are thrilled to share that our founder, George Soros, has been recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian accolade in the United States,” announced the Open Society Foundations on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
President Joe Biden recognized Soros for his lifelong commitment to promoting fairer societies and advocating for human rights around the world.
The President praised Soros in his remarks: “His extraordinary generosity is a powerful reminder for all of us of our ability and duty to challenge the misuse of power and to protect democracy for those who seek freedom.”
This honor was presented by President Biden during a ceremony at the White House, with Open Society Chair Alex Soros accepting the award on behalf of his father.
Soros’s path to the United States was deeply shaped by his experiences during the Holocaust and his life under Communist rule in Hungary.
His philanthropic efforts began over four decades ago with the creation of scholarships for Black South African students amid the apartheid regime.
Since that time, he has contributed over $32 billion to advance the mission of the Open Society Foundations.
Over the years, the organization has broadened its reach to more than 100 countries, supporting civil society groups and initiatives that strengthen democracies globally.
In the United States, Soros has championed racial justice, backed reforms in health-based drug policies, improved end-of-life care, and was instrumental in achieving marriage equality nationwide – a milestone in the civil rights movement of modern American history.
Delve into the history of George Soros’s philanthropy and the Open Society Foundations.