The support will help sustain Freedom House’s flagship annual report, which tracks the status of political rights and civil liberties around the world.

The Charles F. Kettering Foundation has pledged a total of $500,000 over two years to support Freedom House’s flagship Freedom in the World report, the two organizations announced today. Published annually since 1973—and regularly cited by leaders in government, business, and the media—Freedom in the World assesses political rights and civil liberties in 195 countries and 13 territories around the globe.

“For more than half a century, Freedom in the World has been a trusted, nonpartisan guide to where democracy is gaining ground and where it is under attack,” said Sharon L. Davies, president and CEO of the Charles F. Kettering Foundation. “At a time when authoritarianism is spreading, the funding needed to produce this indispensable annual report has been put at risk. The Kettering Foundation is grateful for Freedom House’s leadership and is proud to help it ensure that our communities have the information they need to confront authoritarianism and promote freedom.”

Founded in 1927, the Charles F. Kettering Foundation works to advance inclusive democracies around the globe by fostering citizen engagement, promoting government accountability, and countering authoritarianism.

“This generous support will allow Freedom House to continue producing first-in-class research that is widely used and cited by policymakers, business leaders, students, and changemakers around the world,” said Gerardo Berthin and Annie Boyajian, the presidents of Freedom House. “We’re deeply grateful to the Charles F. Kettering Foundation for its partnership in this work.”

Founded in 1941, Freedom House was the first American organization to champion the advancement of freedom globally and work to secure a world where all people are free. Freedom House is regularly lauded by leaders around the world for its efforts and impact. It is notable for its nonpartisan dedication to democracy, rigorous analysis, and programmatic approaches to addressing the evolving challenges to global freedom.

Freedom House’s critical work has been seriously disrupted by this year’s freeze in US foreign aid. The Charles F. Kettering Foundation’s meaningful contribution as a Democracy Defender is inspiring other donors to join in Freedom House’s mission.