While I still prefer my news in print, I recognize that the Internet plays an increasingly important role in shaping how people get information and discuss the important issues of our day.

This blog highlights an extraordinary range of work, but it is unified by our mission to build and strengthen open societies around the world. While something of an abstract concept, open society centers on the idea that fresh thinking and broad participation is essential for human progress. Only in an environment that respects diversity and protects a range of opinions can society flourish.

This philosophy has real-world implications. In practice, our work is grounded in a deep commitment to human rights, justice, and the need for citizens to hold their governments to account. I hope the Open Society Blog will bring that work a little closer, enriching the debates already happening online while also giving OSI's experts and grantees a platform to sharpen their thinking and bring underreported issues to light.

Promoting critical thinking and protecting freedom of expression have long been central to our mission, and we hope that many voices will contribute to the conversation here.

The struggle for open society is a global one, and I welcome your thoughts.