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>Czech Republic
Soros and the Czech Republic: influence, history, and controversies
George Soros, through his Open Society Foundations (OSF) and the formerly affiliated Open Society Fund Prague (Nadace OSF), has played a role in the Czech Republic's post-communist transition and civil society development, particularly in the years following 1989.
Here's a breakdown:
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Historical involvement
Establishment of the Open Society Fund Prague (Nadace OSF): Founded by Soros in 1992, the Open Society Fund Prague initially aimed to promote democratic principles and a free society in post-communist Czechoslovakia and later the Czech Republic.
Support for civil society: The organization actively supported Czech non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and individuals through various initiatives and grants.
Promotion of democratic values: It focused on promoting human rights, fighting corruption, and advocating for an open society, according to Nadace OSF.
Support for Roma inclusion: Soros has been a vocal advocate for the rights and inclusion of the Roma minority in the Czech Republic, and his Open Society Foundations have supported efforts to address their socioeconomic issues, including school segregation.
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Shift to independence
In 2012, the Czech branch became financially independent from the transnational Open Society Foundations network, though it continues to operate under the "Open Society Fund Prague" name and with the same objectives, notes Nadace OSF.
It now collaborates with various organizations and receives funding from multiple sources.
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Controversies and opposition
Political pushback: Some political groups in the Czech Republic, particularly those with anti-immigrant or anti-EU stances, have criticized Soros's activities and the NGOs he has funded.
Conspiracy theories: Soros's name has become associated with various conspiracy theories, often circulated by the far right, accusing him of manipulating political events or undermining national identity.
Accusations of interference: Critics accuse Soros of attempting to impose a "supranational governance" on the Czech Republic through his support for certain NGOs and advocating for specific policies.
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Current status
The Open Society Fund Prague (Nadace OSF) remains active in the Czech Republic as an independent foundation.
It continues its work in promoting democratic values and supporting civil society, according to Nadace OSF.
The broader Open Society Foundations continue to operate globally, with a focus on human rights, justice, and democracy, according to the Open Society Foundations.
In essence, George Soros and his philanthropic organizations have been a significant, albeit sometimes controversial, force in shaping civil society and democratic development in the Czech Republic, particularly in the decades following the fall of communism