Philanthropy in Europe – A rich past, a promising future

Philanthropy in Europe is rooted in a rich past and is moving towards a promising future. The diversity of philanthropic initiatives in Europe are explained through a few examples of European foundations. This dynamic philanthropy continues to have a major impact on Europe’s evolving social, political and economic life. Philanthropic dynamism was born within Europe’s different religious contexts and has moved forward in tandem with its secularization. As church and state separated – in most countries – philanthropy has found its place in modern societies in different ways. Foundations have played an important role in the development and strengthening of European societies. The sector has an even more critical role to play within the European landscape of the present and the future, both within and across national borders, and internationally.