In the past, before the rise of welfare states, philanthropists were the main funders of cultural and religious institutions. In the current era of austerity, the rich tradition of philanthropy seems to be revived in Europe. In many European countries, philanthropy is being rediscovered as a source of funding for public services and social innovation. Moreover, the importance of philanthropy for the common good is increasingly recognised by the European Commission.
But facts on the size and composition of the philanthropic sector in Europe are lacking. Who donates how much and to what purpose? Without valid and reliable data, it is difficult to demonstrate and promote the social significance of philanthropy.
The 'Giving Europe' research project aims to create insight by mapping the main figures and statistics available regarding the philanthropic sector in different European countries. The study will show how widespread private contributions are for public benefit, how these contributions differ between sectors, and how the degree of giving behaviour varies between different countries in Europe.
In addition, the study should result in the development of national databases covering the giving behaviour of individuals/households, legacies, foundations, companies and charity lotteries.
Moreover, the study will serve as a benchmark for governments, foundations and non-profit organisations: the level of fundraising and 'grant making' can be compared. Such a benchmark is important because governments are redefining their responsibilities, which, it is expected, will lead to growth of the philanthropic sector.
The research will also help to form networks of philanthropic institutions, fundraisers, grantmakers, umbrella organisations, major donors, and philanthropic training institutions; encourage collaboration within the philanthropic community, from charities to non-profit organisations and policymakers; and stimulate existing European scientific networks such as ERNOP.
The research was initiated by the European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP). This network was founded in January 2008 by a group of leading European philanthropy scholars, with the common aim of coordinating and promoting scientific philanthropy research in Europe. Currently, about 175 members from 22 European countries have joined ERNOP. ERNOP is an institutional member of the ISTR and collaborates with other European Philanthropy networks, such as EMES, ICFO and the EVPA. More information can be found here .
Methodology
The 'Giving Europe' study is based on the methodology of the 'Giving in the Netherlands' survey, which has been carried out biannually since 1995 by the Center for Philanthropic Studies of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. The survey provides comprehensive macroeconomic estimates relating to philanthropy by households, companies, bequests, foundations and charity lotteries. The estimates are based on primary research on households and firms and secondary data analysis on bequests, foundations and lotteries. The research is the first of its kind in Europe and is partly funded by the Dutch government.
Relevance
Philanthropy was until recently an isolated focus within EU policy and on the political agenda of European governments. But the European Commission's "Europe 2020 strategy", which aims at a knowledge- and innovation-based economy, and focuses on sustainable and inclusive growth (high employment and social and territorial cohesion), offers new opportunities. Philanthropy is no longer seen as merely a financial instrument for the benefit of research and innovation; foundations and charitable giving organisations are increasingly funding important public services.