Established in December 2000, the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) is part of the global network of 32 autonomous foundations founded and supported by George Soros. These nonprofit foundations share a commitment to the advancement of open society. Based on the premise that no one has a monopoly on the truth, an open society recognizes the importance of different views and interests and remains forever open to improvement. In practice, open societies are characterized by the rule of law, democracy, respect for diversity and human rights, free markets, informed citizenry, and vibrant civil society.