Johannesburg – The Open Society Foundations says accusations by the Trump Administration in the United States that it supports terrorism are false.
Recent reporting says the Trump Administration was directing investigations for suspected crimes, including supporting terrorism, against the Open Society Foundations.
Rejecting the accusations, the Open Society described the moves as “politically motivated actions fit a larger pattern: attempts to silence speech, weaken civil society, and undermine democratic freedoms”.
In a statement released today, Friday, 26 September 2025, the Open Society said, “We intend to challenge these attacks on philanthropy and civil society as violations of the law and Constitution.”
The Open Society Foundations stated that it unequivocally condemns terrorism and does not fund terrorism.
“Our activities are peaceful and lawful, and our grantees are expected to abide by human rights principles and comply with the law,” the statement said.
“These accusations are politically motivated attacks on civil society, meant to silence speech the administration disagrees with and undermine the First Amendment right to free speech.
“When power is abused to take away the rights of some people, it puts the rights of all people at risk.
“Our work in the United States is dedicated to strengthening democracy and upholding constitutional freedoms.
“We stand by the work we do to improve lives in the United States and across the world.”
Binaifer Nowrojee, President, Open Society Foundations, said the reported efforts to manufacture criminal charges against Open Society were an affront to the rule of law, the First Amendment, and the most fundamental principles of the Constitution.
Nowrojee said the coming days and months may bring further developments.
“Whatever happens, we remain steadfast in our mission and will continue to stand alongside our grantees and partners to promote rights, equity, and justice in the United States and around the world,” said Nowrojee.
“We appreciate your messages of solidarity and support to push back against this government overreach.”
