Philea Forum 2026: Philanthropy for People and Planet
From 18–21 May in Copenhagen, the annual Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association) Forum brought together nearly 900 European and international philanthropists to discuss the role that foundations can play in supporting just and sustainable transitions in the face of climate, democratic and social challenges.
“The pressure on both people and planet is increasing as climate breakdown fuels instability, triggers displacement, and aggravates inequality,” said Philea CEO Delphine Moralis at the opening plenary of the Forum. “Yet, we as the European philanthropy sector are not here at this conference to dwell on the status quo. We are here because, amid it all, we choose to lean into possibility.”
The programme for this year’s event, organised by a collective of 17 Danish foundations, includes thematic workshops, panel discussions, field visits, opportunities for peer-to-peer exchanges and screenings of documentary films to fuel the discussions.
Throughout the forum, participants explored how climate and environmental issues cut across all areas of philanthropic work. The discussions focused in particular on the links between climate, biodiversity, health, democracy and inequality, as well as on the conditions necessary for a just and sustainable ecological transition. Several workshops highlighted initiatives related to sustainable food systems, climate migration and the role of culture and the media in collective action in response to environmental crises.
Fondation de France Engaged in Debate
Axelle Davezac, CEO of Fondation de France, participated in a round-table discussion on the role of philanthropy in a crisis-ridden context marked by democratic erosion and societal polarisation. “The philanthropic sector has long focused on the causes it supports, overlooking that it itself depends on a democratic framework to operate,” Axelle Davezac pointed out. “It must now acknowledge its role in preserving democratic space, civic engagement and access to reliable information.” She also noted the emergence of a new generation of philanthropists who are more engaged in issues of democracy and social cohesion.
Laetitia Bertholet-Lespect, head of the Transition écologique juste action collective at Fondation de France, participated in a round-table discussion on the concept of “just transition”, alongside Anne Monier, a researcher at the University of Geneva. Drawing on examples of collaboration between foundations, participants discussed ways to reconcile climate action, social justice and the strengthening of democracy. In particular, the discussions highlighted the importance for the philanthropic sector of working with public actors and civil society to promote sustainable change.
A Letter to Future Generations
The Forum concluded with the reading of a “Letter to Future Generations”, drafted based on contributions gathered from participants throughout the three-day event. This text calls on philanthropists to show courage and to remain committed to their cause. “We will find the courage to leave the safety of the ‘tried and tested’ and seek out new paths leading to something better, brighter and more beautiful,” the letter declares.
For next year, the baton has been passed to the city of Turin, which will host a new edition of the Philea Forum from 24–27 May 2027. Organised by the Fondazione CRT, this year’s event will focus on democracy.