Giving in the Netherlands is one of the main research projects of the Center for Philanthropic Studies. Since 1995, the giving behaviour of households, individuals, foundations, companies and charity lotteries has been mapped every two years and compiled into a macroeconomic overview. This not only involves contributions in the form of money and goods, but Dutch people also give time and effort in the form of voluntary work in many social areas. Giving in the Netherlands distinguishes eight social and charitable causes: (1) religion, (2) health including medical research, (3) international aid, (4) environment, nature and animal protection, (5) education and research, (6) culture, (7) sports and recreation and (8) social and societal causes.
Click here for more information on the Giving in the Netherlands survey.
Charities, 'philanthropy' and the philanthropic sector are booming business in the Netherlands and in the European community: high net worth individuals, the 'entrepreneurial wealthy', foundations, but also companies are getting involved in numerous social causes in the fields of culture, education, research, nature conservation and quality of life. The 'Giving Europe' project aims to introduce Dutch research to other Western European countries (starting with Belgium, UK, Germany, France, Italy and Switzerland). With the aim of creating a 'Giving Europe' built from the national 'Giving' studies. To this end, a "European Research Network on Philanthropy"(ERNOP) has been established.