The KIOS Foundation

The KIOS Foundation is an independent, non-political, non-religious and non-governmental foundation founded in 1998 in Finland. KIOS supports the work of human rights defenders in East Africa and South Asia. Together with local organizations, we are building a world where human rights belong to everyone.

The starting point for our work is local need and local expertise. We channel direct support to human rights work planned and implemented by civil society organizations in developing countries. Every year, we fund approximately 30 NGOs, which are fighting for dignity, freedom, equality and justice in their own countries. Our goal is a stronger civil society and human rights movement in developing countries and globally.

Supported activities include human rights education, awareness raising, campaigning, monitoring and documentation of the human rights situation, advocacy work and legal aid. In addition to funding, KIOS supports the organizations by strengthening their capacity, networks and security.