Standing Together for Philanthropic Freedoms
Eurochild co-signs a joint statement by Philea reaffirming the vital role of philanthropy in defending civic space and democracy across Europe and beyond, calling for an enabling environment that safeguards the freedom to give, associate, and advocate for the public good.
Recent public funding cuts for international aid and development, particularly from USAID and European governments, have directly affected the sustainability of philanthropy and civil society at large. Over the past years, philanthropy has faced growing pressure, including through legal and regulatory barriers, also in Europe. These include reduced tax incentives for donations and “foreign agent”-style laws limiting cross-border funding. Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism regulations have also been applied in ways that restrict civil society operations.
In some European countries, smear campaigns have sought to delegitimise the non-profit sector and erode public trust. Civil society’s role in public debate and policy has come under greater scrutiny, with support for advocacy and civic engagement increasingly questioned.
Now more than ever, we need a civic space where giving, participation and collaboration are protected and encouraged. This is essential for addressing today’s complex challenges and for building a future rooted in fairness, inclusion and resilience.
We are united behind core values of democracy, equality and the rule of law, and root our work in the freedoms of expression and association and the free flow of capital. Especially in times of crisis, philanthropy must have the freedom to support and to direct its resources towards the wide variety of societal issues at stake and to contribute to a society that works for people and the planet.
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