Philea warns that EU member states have only a few months left to implement the European Council’s recommendations on developing the social economy, which could eliminate key barriers to cross-border philanthropy. These hurdles include discriminatory tax treatment, restricted access to banking services, and growing restrictions on so-called foreign agents, a concern in countries such as Slovakia, Hungary, and Georgia. The Council’s 2023 recommendation addresses a broad range of social economy issues beyond charitable donations, recognizing various legal forms such as cooperatives, mutual societies, associations, foundations, and social enterprises. Philea urges foundations and philanthropy organizations to advocate for swift implementation, emphasizing that legislative changes and simplified procedures are crucial for a functioning cross-border philanthropic space. With the November deadline approaching, Philea highlights that the upcoming Commission-led training on social economy topics will create momentum to support philanthropy and strengthen the sector’s role in advancing social and environmental goals across Europe. Read more here.
Source: European Fundraising Association (EFA)