Swarovski Foundation director Jakya Rahman-Corey says there is a power imbalance between funders and grantees remains rife in philanthropy.  ‘Unfortunately, there is a power imbalance between funders and organisations on the ground and to recognise that goes back to the object of the grant-giving body – what is it trying to achieve?’, she told Civil Society.   Born and raised in the UK, Rahman-Corey was inspired to ‘give back’ after witnessing ‘extreme poverty’ during a …

Reflecting on discussions held in Belfast, framed by the question ‘Countering Violent Conflict and Polarisation: How Can Donors Help?’ Melanie Greenberg (Humanity United) praised the event – ‘I think it was for creative imagination, moral support, celebration, but also for some serious reflection.’  Held in February 2024, the gathering was timely given global events.  Some 200 participants, from a wide range of regions and organisations, delivered a vibrancy and sense of urgency to the issues …

There are three core issues we can’t afford to ignore this year. First, globally we experienced the hottest February in recorded history, second is that more than half the world’s population is going to the polls this year, including the UK. Third, the World Economic Forum shared its Global Risks Report 2024 which warns of a global risks landscape in which it cites misinformation and disinformation as the biggest short-term risks, while extreme weather and …

COP28 paved the way for a consensus-built commitment to transition away from fossil fuels. However, the implementation and pathways for the transition will be complex and require responsible and equitable managem­ent. Philanthropy can help facilitate a transition to climate-compatible growth, including in many low-income countries that are dependent on fossil fuels. Achieving this transition requires a nuanced understanding of the diverse challenges across countries and communities. To support low-carbon climate solutions without hindering development, philanthropy …