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 organisations, we are building a world where human rights belong to everyone. 

KIOS channels direct support to human rights work designed and implemented by civil society organisations in developing countries. The starting point for our work is always local need and local expertise. 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 partner organisations by strengthening their capacity, networks and security. 

Every year, KIOS funds approximately 30 NGOs that fight 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.