Study Reveals In-Depth Analysis of the State of Global Generosity

The 2025 Global Philanthropy Environment Index (GPEI), a new research study assessing the enabling environment for philanthropy in 95 countries and economies, is being released by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. As a tool for understanding global philanthropic conditions, the GPEI provides crucial insights into the incentives and barriers faced by philanthropic organizations and donors worldwide.

Covering the period from 2021 to 2023, the 2025 GPEI marks a pivotal effort to understand the latest information on conditions influencing philanthropy during a time of significant global challenges, including natural disasters, economic upheaval, and a global health crisis. A collaboration with 173 local experts worldwide, this comprehensive index evaluates six critical factors impacting philanthropy in each country and economy: ease of operating a philanthropic organization, tax incentives, cross-border financial flows, political environment, economic conditions, and sociocultural influences.

"Philanthropy plays a central role in addressing the world's most pressing challenges, and generosity remains a universal quality,” said Amir Pasic, Ph.D., the Eugene R. Tempel Dean of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. “The 2025 GPEI provides valuable insights that empower leaders in all sectors to create more supportive environments for philanthropic efforts. By leveraging these findings, together we can enhance collaboration and create meaningful impact across the globe."

Overall, the GPEI report underscores the complex interplay of factors shaping the philanthropic environment globally. While favorable conditions exist in many regions, challenges remain, requiring flexibility and collaboration so that philanthropy can effectively address global priorities. The insights and recommendations provided aim to inform and assist policymakers, philanthropic leaders, and practitioners in fostering a more supportive environment for philanthropy worldwide.

Key Findings:

1. Generosity Remains Universal: Despite global challenges, the sociocultural factor of giving remains strong, highlighting that generosity is a shared human trait across cultures, societies, and countries. About 60% of assessed countries have favorable philanthropic environments.
2. Regional Variations and Emerging Trends: Western Europe leads with favorable conditions driven by economic growth and digital innovation, while regions like the Caribbean face challenges. The pandemic has catalyzed digital adaptations and climate philanthropy, backed by increased government support for private sector involvement.
3. Resource for Policy- and Decision-Makers: The findings provide a robust framework for policymakers and leaders in philanthropy, the private sector and beyond around the world, offering opportunities for strategic improvements that tie into the broader geopolitical context.

Recommendations for Enhancing Philanthropy:

1. Legal and Administrative Reforms: Streamlining laws and processes can enhance the operating environment for philanthropy.
2. Collaboration: Encouraging effective partnerships across sectors is vital for effectively addressing global issues.
3. Right-sized Regulations: Tailoring administrative requirements to organizational size can alleviate burdens on smaller entities.

The GPEI further identifies key future developments, such as intergenerational wealth transfer and cross-border giving policies, which will shape global philanthropy. Ongoing research and future updates will continue to inform strategies for global development.

"Understanding and improving the environment for philanthropy is crucial in addressing global challenges. The 2025 GPEI offers a robust framework for decision-makers and practitioners in philanthropy and other sectors to foster a more supportive and effective philanthropic landscape," said Una Osili, Ph.D. Associate Dean for Research and International Programs at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Stakeholders around the world, including governments, philanthropic organizations and the public, are encouraged to utilize the GPEI's insights to help create meaningful change in their regions and communities.

Access the "2025 Global Philanthropy Environment Index" here.

Source: Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

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