2024 Predictions for Philanthropy & Civil Society - Part 1
Dec 14, 2023
auto_awesome
In this podcast, the hosts discuss predictions for philanthropy in 2024, including the impact of a global economic slowdown and elections, the decline in overall giving, and the need to rethink fundraising strategies. They explore the evolving landscape of philanthropy, touching on the ethical dilemmas of supporting conflicting causes and the rise of spirituality in giving. The podcast also delves into ongoing criticisms of philanthropy, the tension between donor and recipient organizations, and various trends and challenges in the charity sector.
01:10:35
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Experts predict a global economic slowdown and a potential recession in 2024.
There is a decline in overall giving, particularly among lower-income donors, with a shift towards online platforms and new ways of giving.
There is a growing recognition of the importance of learning from other cultures and expanding our understanding of philanthropy to include collectivism and collective approaches.
Deep dives
Overall economic slowdown and political climate
Experts predict a general economic slowdown worldwide, which may lead to a global recession. The political climate is expected to be decisive with numerous elections happening worldwide. Immigration and right-wing populism continue to be key political concerns. There is also a rollback on human rights and social progress in several places.
Decline in everyday giving and evolving nature of philanthropy
Recent data suggests a decline in overall giving, particularly in the mass market or everyday giving. This decline is partially attributed to a decrease in participation among lower-income donors, while high-income donors give larger amounts. However, it is speculated that giving is evolving, with younger generations giving in new ways such as through online platforms or supporting social causes through consumer behavior. This shift requires a reevaluation of philanthropic models and practices.
Concerns and challenges in foundations and grant-making
Foundations face criticism and self-reflection regarding their nature and practices. There is a growing tension between recipient organizations and donors, leading to difficult decisions on accepting or refusing donations. There are concerns about tainted donations and the need to balance financial scarcity with ethical decisions. Philanthropic debates such as mandatory payout rates and the influence of foundations in democracy are gaining prominence. Additionally, donor-advised funds and non-standard structures like limited liability companies are being utilized more often.
Shifting Perspectives on Giving
There is a growing recognition of the importance of learning from other cultures when it comes to philanthropy and charity. More emphasis is being placed on expanding our understanding of giving beyond individual acts, towards collectivism and collective approaches. This has led to a rise in initiatives like giving circles and identity-based networks, where donors come together to collaborate and express their collective values.
Challenges in Mass Market Giving and Platformization
Giving is increasingly happening through non-charitable platforms, such as social media and commercial payment platforms. This raises concerns about the motivations of these platforms, as they prioritize user engagement and attention rather than the interests of civil society. Algorithmic processes also play a role in guiding giving decisions, which brings up questions about who designs these algorithms and the impact on the overall concept of philanthropy. Additionally, the shift towards giving to individuals and unregistered groups raises ethical dilemmas and challenges the traditional understanding of philanthropy.
As is now tradition, in our final episode of the year we take a look at some of the key themes and trends in philanthropy and civil society right now and offer some thoughts on what 2024 might bring. In this first of two parts, we explore developments in the wider political and economic landscape, as well as taking a deep dive into what to expect in philanthropy, everyday giving, grantmaking and the nonprofit sector. Including:
Given the number of major elections worldwide, and the ongoing rise of political populism, will 2024 be a pivotal year from democracy?
Will there be further attempts to roll back hard fought aspects of social progress?
Will be see a global economic slowdown, or recession?
Is there a danger of climate becoming politicised as an issue at the exact moment we need more concerted action?
Will we move from talking about a decline in giving to taking action to address the challenge?
Will we see further focus on the need to broaden our understanding of philanthropy and to learn from other cultures?
Are concerns about the risks of allowing philanthropy to become 'platformised' going to become more acute?
Will giving in response to conflicts test the limits of what we are willing to count as philanthropy?
After a long period in which “efficiency” and “rationality” has been emphasised, are we seeing people reclaim the importance of "heart" in philanthropy?
Will we see more criticism of billionaire wealth? What will this mean for elite philanthropy?
Will the continued emergence of next gen donors start to shift philanthropic norms?
Will the rise of China and India start to shift the centre of gravity of global philanthropy?
Will we see more instances of donors withdrawing support for recipients over disagreements about positioning on contentious issues?
Will we see a shift in debates about tainted donations, with more emphasis on accepting money as a default?
Will we see the idea that companies can combine profit with purpose come in for further scrutiny (or criticism)?
Will the continuing loss of infrastructure start to put a strain on the charity sector?
How will traditional charities and funders respond to the growing prominence of social movements?
