It is encouraging to read the report that was the outcome of the UK Parliament’s International Development Committee inquiry into private foundations. I’d agree most with the Committee’s statement that foundations should take more risks in their project choice, funding approaches and political advocacy. Like the Committee, I would also like to see traditional bilateral donors working more closely with foundations, especially smaller ones and foundations based in developing countries.
We want to encourage more people-centred philanthropy that supports social movements, long-term investments in communities and the empowerment of neglected groups like women and children. So I am concerned with the report’s support for high-profile advocates because it continues to perpetuate existing power dynamics.
Based on what we have learned from the Bellagio Initiative, I would especially encourage the inclusion of foundations in the International Aid Transparency Initiative, with assistance from donors for smaller foundations. However, the inclusion of foundations in the aid effectiveness agenda shouldn’t shift the emphasis away from creating wellbeing and results for vulnerable and establishing the conditions and opportunities for good self-governance.
Bellagio Initiative related news:
Bellagio Initiative partner welcomes UK Parliamentary report on philanthropic solution to aid in tough times
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Can donors and foundations be friends?
It is encouraging to read the report that was the outcome of the UK Parliament’s International Development Committee inquiry into private foundations. I’d agree most with the Committee’s statement that foundations should take more risks in their project choice, funding approaches and political advocacy. Like the Committee, I would also like to see traditional bilateral donors working more closely with foundations, especially smaller ones and foundations based in developing countries.
We want to encourage more people-centred philanthropy that supports social movements, long-term investments in communities and the empowerment of neglected groups like women and children. So I am concerned with the report’s support for high-profile advocates because it continues to perpetuate existing power dynamics.
Based on what we have learned from the Bellagio Initiative, I would especially encourage the inclusion of foundations in the International Aid Transparency Initiative, with assistance from donors for smaller foundations. However, the inclusion of foundations in the aid effectiveness agenda shouldn’t shift the emphasis away from creating wellbeing and results for vulnerable and establishing the conditions and opportunities for good self-governance.
Bellagio Initiative related news:
Bellagio Initiative partner welcomes UK Parliamentary report on philanthropic solution to aid in tough times