The mission of the Network Women’s Program is to promote the advancement of women’s human rights, equality and empowerment as an integral part of the process of democratization. Open societies cannot exist without measurable and accountable respect for gender equity and diversity. The NWP serves as a resource, partner and consultancy body for the Soros foundations network, including the directors and board members, national and regional foundations, other network-wide and international programs, as well as other entities inside and outside the Soros network, to encourage, support and initiate gender-inclusive projects.   NWP seeks to:   Create effective and sustainable women’s movements in Soros foundations network countries. Influence international policy makers and other funders to develop and adopt gender-sensitive policies and activities at international, regional, national and local levels. Raise awareness of issues of gender and diversity through education, advocacy, and research. Promote local, regional, national and international cooperation and linkage among women’s organizations that oppose gender discrimination and work for women’s empowerment. Encourage access of the regions’ women to international women’s activities and to resources available to countries in transition. Support women’s contributions to advancing alternative solutions to social and political crises. Eradicate violations of women’s rights.