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This spring, 25 leaders of major European foundations discussed key issues facing the philanthropic sector at the first European Academy of Strategic Philanthropy (EASP). In this interview, Maja Spanu shares some of the key insights from the event whilst providing her own take on philanthropy in Europe.

Serial lockdowns, economic slowdown, social distancing—the impact of the pandemic significantly marked the year 2021.

In order to take action at the appropriate scale and offer the same level of support in all regions of France, Fondation de France has opted for decentralization, setting up six regional foundations.

The appeal for funds launched by Fondation de France on February 28 has raised 14 million euros to help the people affected by the conflict in Ukraine. This amazing outpouring of generosity contributes to supporting immediate action on the ground for those who need it.

2 millions people have already left Ukraine to escape the military offensive in the country. In coordination with several European foundations, the Fondation de France is launching a solidarity appeal to provide emergency aid to thousands of people affected by the conflict.

8.5 billion euros is the amount donated in France in 2019. In its second edition, the Panorama national des générosités (a review of philanthropy), produced by the Fondation de France Philanthropy Observatory reveals five key trends over the long term.

Fondation de France has been committed to funding environmental action for 50 years – the foundation’s moment of awakening was in the 1970s during the oil crisis. Since that time, it has joined the French Coalition of Foundations for Climate; committed millions of Euros annually to climate change interventions; launched France 2i, a social and environmental impact fund; and joined the Internations Philanthropy Commitment on Climate Change.

The 2020 financial review having now been conducted, it is clear that the crisis marking the past year is far from over, with social and economic challenges coming on top of significant healthcare challenges.

Fondation de France acted quickly during the health crisis: support for carers and helpers, support for research and support for the vulnerable: over 650 projects were conducted throughout France in just two months. The crisis has highlighted existing frailties and those that were less visible, it has exposed the limits of our modes of production and consumption. The support mechanisms for the most vulnerable were quickly overwhelmed by the scale of the demand… Now, urgent long-term action is required.

How to face the death of a loved one, to make sense of it, and learn to live with it? After losing her husband in a climbing accident in Nepal, Fabienne Clauss chose the high road, reacting with generosity and grace. On October 5, 1995, Himalaya mountaineer Benoît Chamoux set out for his ascension of Kangchenjunga, his fourteenth summit over eight thousand meters, accompanied by Pierre Royer and Riku, their high-altitude Sherpa guide. Pierre and Benoît did not return; neither did Riku.