About Us
Freedom House is founded on the core conviction that freedom flourishes in democratic nations where governments are accountable to their people.
Our vision is a world where all are free.
Our mission is to expand and defend freedom globally.
Freedom House was founded in 1941 to rally policymakers and a broadly isolationist American public around the fight against Nazi Germany, and to raise awareness of the fascist threat to American security and values. In the decades since, Freedom House has established itself through its advocacy, programs, and research as the leading American organization devoted to the support and defense of democracy around the world.
We work across political divides to advance policies that strengthen democracy and protect human rights. We support a vast, trusted network of activists and advocates who are leading the struggle for democratic change in their countries. When these courageous individuals are attacked for their activism, journalism, or opposition to tyranny, we strive to keep them safe so that they may continue their important work.
Our History: Founded in 1941 to Defend Democracy Worldwide
Since its founding, Freedom House has monitored the state of freedom and democracy around the world, and helped shaped the debate on the most pressing issues of our time.
We inform the world about threats to freedom.
For more than 50 years, Freedom House has systematically tracked the most pressing threats to democracy and freedom around the globe. We publish detailed research on more than 200 countries and territories, because accurate data and rigorous analysis are essential to shining a light on the erosion of freedom.
Policymakers, activists, and civil society groups rely on our research for guidance as they work toward a more open, just, and free world. Business leaders turn to Freedom House to help ensure that their actions support—rather than undermine—democracy. From detailed assessments on political rights and civil liberties (Freedom in the World) and the definitive study on internet freedom (Freedom on the Net) to groundbreaking new research on the tactics used by authoritarians to silence their critics or expand their influence abroad (Transnational Repression), our analysis provides essential insights into the state of freedom and democracy around the world.
We mobilize policymakers, advocates, and leaders to act.
Freedom House’s analysis of the state of global democracy and extensive work with front-line activists gives us unique credibility to advocate for policies that would reinforce democratic governance in the United States and around the world. We work closely with policymakers to protect human rights and to vigorously oppose dictatorship and oppression. We enable political dissidents and rights defenders to tell their stories to the US Congress and executive branch, the news media, and the United Nations, ensuring that first-hand information reaches decision makers. And we form partnerships with peer groups to galvanize support for democracy in all countries.
To learn more about Freedom House’s policy positions and advocacy work, visit our Policy Recommendations page.
We support democracy advocates and human rights defenders.
Freedom House advances the efforts of people around the world to live in freedom and exercise their rights. We do this, even in the most politically restrictive settings, by building long-term relationships with local activists as they promote open government, defend human rights, strengthen civil society, and facilitate the free flow of information and ideas.
Since 2007, we have assisted tens of thousands of activists, victims of human rights abuses, and their families across 150 countries by providing support for urgent needs like relocation, legal representation, trial monitoring, technical equipment, medical and living expenses, and other life-saving services. We enhance their ability to fight corruption, document and promote accountability for human rights abuses, and demand equal rights, especially for at-risk communities. We also conduct targeted campaigns for the release of imprisoned activists so that they can continue their work, often in exile, and help bring democratic change to their countries.
Freedom House Board & Leadership
Freedom House is led by President Michael J. Abramowitz. The daily work of the organization is conducted by its approximately 300 staff members in Washington, New York, and field offices around the world.
Careers: Work with Us to Advance Democracy
Working with Freedom House can take you around the world. With programs in nearly 20 countries, Freedom House offers opportunities to grow within the organization, and to learn from the diverse experience of our domestic and international staff.
Support Our Work: Donate today!
Freedom House needs your help in restoring support for democracy. Our work amplifies voices calling for freedom and empowers human rights defenders and civic activists to advance democratic change. Please support our mission by making a gift today.
Freedom House is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
