Philea has published the “2025 Democracy Briefer for Funders: What’s Happening to European Democracy and What Funders Can Do About It,” an in-depth explainer commissioned by the Democracy Network. This publication examines the phenomenon of democratic backsliding in Europe. The briefer identifies key factors contributing to democratic erosion, such as unmet socio-economic needs, increasing polarization, and the rise of populism. It emphasizes the importance of early intervention, noting that the deeper the erosion, the more challenging the recovery. While acknowledging that philanthropy alone cannot reverse democratic backsliding, the report highlights its catalytic potential in supporting movements and organizations dedicated to defending and innovating democracy. To assist funders, the publication provides a concise, evidence-based pitch to engage peers and boards in bolstering democracy support. It also offers a range of engagement options, from low-threshold to bold approaches, and advocates for scaling up existing collaborations rather than creating new structures. Read more here.
Source: Philea