DAVOS (SWITZERLAND) — George SOROS, the president of the Soros Foundation and the founder of the Open Society Institute, began his philanthropic activity in the 1970s. He provided financial assistance to dissidents in countries behind the Iron Curtain. The successful financier also set up a network of charity organizations that are operating in more than 50 countries. Their purpose is to advance the values of democracy and open society. In the following blitz interview the famous philanthropist offers his assessment of a roundtable on philanthropic issues, which was organized by the Viktor Pinchuk Foundation, as well as Ukrainian charitable initiatives in general. He also pointed out certain questions that need to be resolved by the Ukrainian government.
What is your impression of the roundtable and the discussion of philanthropic questions in general?
“I believe this was a nice roundtable. There was a sincere discussion of questions related to philanthropy. In general, I think it was a good discussion.”
What is your opinion of Ukrainian philanthropy?
“I am very happy that Viktor Pinchuk and Rinat Akhmetov are active in this area. So I believe philanthropic activity is developing well in Ukraine.”
Can philanthropy improve people’s lives?
“You cannot expect philanthropy to replace the government. First of all, it is important to have good government, which you still lack. You don’t have rule of law. This is what you need to develop above all else.”
Do you think the Ukrainian government is not coping with these issues so far?
“For now, no. This is especially true of the judicial system and rule of law in the country. I believe this is Ukraine’s greatest challenge.”
Do you think Ukraine’s current government has the political will to resolve the issues that you just mentioned?
“It’s hard to say. These things take a long time. But I believe that there is general progress, even though I don’t think you can say that these problems have been resolved.”
You may have heard about Russia’s reaction to Ukraine’s application to join the NATO Membership Action Plan. In your opinion, how is the West supposed to react?
“I have heard that there are very different opinions on this issue. I am an outsider, and I don’t think I have the right to express my own opinion.”
Nevertheless, as an outsider, can you say how the West will react to Russia’s statements about reciprocal actions?
“I hope Russia does not resort to such actions.”
