Is Avaaz Funded by George Soros? Debunking the Myth

Discussions around the financing of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have gained prominence in recent years, with claims of billionaire financiers backing specific causes. One such claim involves the reputed financier, George Soros, and his alleged support for the global civic organization and advocacy group, Avaaz. In this article, we will delve into the facts and explore whether George Soros directly funds Avaaz.

About Avaaz

Avaaz is a global civic organization that focuses on issues such as climate change, human rights, and political accountability. It was co-founded in 2007 by Ricken Patel, Tom Perriello, and other activists. The organization operates on a diverse funding base, comprising individual donations, grants, and grassroots support from its members. It is crucial to understand that there is no direct evidence to support the claim that George Soros specifically funds Avaaz.

George Soros and His Philanthropy

George Soros is renowned for his philanthropic efforts through the Open Society Foundations, a network of foundations, organizations, and programs promoting local initiatives for justice, participation, and human rights worldwide. His philanthropic activities extend to a wide range of causes, including healthcare, education, and human rights. However, his engagement with specific NGOs such as Avaaz is not verified.

Funding Sources of Avaaz

The funding sources for Avaaz are diverse, reflecting a grassroots approach to supporting the organization. Avaaz primarily relies on grassroots donations from its members, who contribute based on their convictions and support for the organization’s causes. For individuals seeking detailed financial information or the organization’s funding structure, it is advisable to refer to their official reports and transparency disclosures, which provide comprehensive details about the organization's financial activities.

Avaaz Co-Founders and George Soros

Avaaz was co-founded by a group of prominent activists, including Ricken Patel, Tom Perriello, Move On's Tom Pravda, Eli Pariser, David Madden, Jeremy Heimans, and Andrea Woodhouse. It is important to note that while George Soros is politically active and has funded various organizations (such as the Open Society Foundations, Center for American Progress, and Democracy Alliance), there is no evidence linking him to Avaaz.

George Soros and His Philanthropic Efforts

George Soros has been involved in funding and supporting numerous causes and organizations, including:

Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) Open Society Foundations Central European University (CEU) Center for American Progress Democracy Alliance Priority USA Action Ready For Hillary Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa Independent Diplomat in Kosovo Polisario Front in Western Africa Massachusetts Sensible Marijuana Policy Initiative Lindesmith Center USA Drug Policy Foundation USA Drug Policy Alliance

Although Soros has significant involvement in various causes, it is essential to avoid conflating his involvement with one organization with his involvement with another. As of the latest ascertainable information, he has not been directly involved in Avaaz.

In conclusion, while George Soros is a tremendously influential financier and philanthropist, there is no evidence to suggest that he funds Avaaz. The organization is primarily supported by grassroots donations from its members and a diverse funding base reflecting its global reach and impact.