Binaifer Nowrojee, a seasoned human rights advocate with a remarkable career spanning over three decades, is poised to become the first woman from the Global South to lead the Open Society Foundations.
This appointment signifies a pivotal moment for the organization, fostering greater diversity within its leadership ranks. Ms. Nowrojee is set to succeed Mark Malloch-Brown, who will step down in June 2024.
Her journey to the helm is paved with experience and expertise. Having held key positions within Open Society, including Vice President of Programs and Director of the East Africa Foundation, she has demonstrably played a crucial role in driving strategic change to amplify the organization’s global impact.
Ms. Nowrojee’s qualifications are equally impressive. A Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School and an LLM from Harvard Law School solidify her foundation in international law and human rights. Throughout her career, she has championed social justice and equality, leaving an undeniable mark on the fight for a just world.
Prior to joining Open Society, her dedication to human rights manifested in her work at Human Rights Watch and the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights. She fiercely advocated for victims of sexual violence, even taking her expertise to the international stage by serving as an expert witness at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda.
Looking ahead, Ms. Nowrojee acknowledges the challenges faced by Open Society during a period of transition. She recognizes the impact of recent restructuring on staff and grantees, yet remains steadfast in her commitment to the organization’s core values. Echoing the vision of founder George Soros, she emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, local knowledge, and a willingness to take risks.
Openly addressing the recent changes, Ms. Nowrojee extends an invitation for collaboration. She seeks to unite the organization’s network in the pursuit of a shared vision: a world brimming with justice and compassion.
Binaifer Nowrojee’s leadership signifies a new chapter for the Open Society Foundations. Her proven experience, unwavering dedication to human rights, and commitment to building upon the organization’s legacy position her well to guide the foundation towards a brighter future.
