Giving in Europe: The state of research on giving in 20 European countries

This study is in intitial attempt to map philanthropy in Europe and presents a first overall estimation of the European philanthropic sector. Containing an overview of what we know about research on the philanthropy sector, it provides data and and assesment of the data on giving by households, bequests, foundations, corporations and charity lotteries in 20 European countries.

Despite the promising signs of an emerging philanthropy sector in Europe, it is still a phenomenon and a sector tah is not very well understood. As a matter of fact, besides the anectotical glimpses from national studies and the great work that has been carried out on the subdomains of philanthropy, we know little about its actual scope, size and forms in Europe. For a better discussen and assessment of the (potential) role that philanthropy can play in solving societal problems, we need a clear picture of the size and scope of philanthropy. What amounts are being donated by households, through bequests, corporations, foundations, and charity lotteries, and to what goals? To what extent can we draw a picture of the philanthropy sector in Europe, what is de quality of the data involved?

In answering these questions, this publication aims to stimulate researchers, policy makers and philanthropy professionals in fostering research on philanthropy and to inspire to exchange knowledge and information.