The Philea Forum 2026, the largest annual gathering of the European philanthropic community, was held in Copenhagen from 18 to 21 May. Representatives of the National Foundation for Civil Society Development also participated as members of the Philea network, which brings together more than 7,500 foundations. This year’s hosts were Danish foundations led by the Realdania Foundation, and the Forum brought together nearly 900 participants from across Europe and around the world.
The Forum’s theme was “Philanthropy for People and Planet”, focusing on the role of philanthropy in fostering fair and sustainable social change. Through a series of plenary presentations, discussions, documentary film screenings, and interactive sessions, participants reflected on the challenges of climate change, growing social inequalities, and the need to strengthen community resilience. Discussions also highlighted the importance of aligning financial investments with social and environmental values, as well as the need for bold and innovative approaches in times of global challenges and uncertainty.
Forum participants emphasized that philanthropy plays a vital role in building a more just and sustainable society, with collaboration, inclusiveness, and intergenerational dialogue recognized as key prerequisites for creating positive change. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of engaging younger generations in shaping the future of philanthropy.
As part of the Forum, the Philea Agora was also organized—an interactive space serving as an open platform for sharing stories, experiences, and innovative practices within the European philanthropic sector. During the Agora, the Program iM:PACT – Innovations for the Mediterranean was presented. Since 2025, the programme has been implemented by the National Foundation for Civil Society Development. It focuses on innovation for the Mediterranean by strengthening cross-sectoral and cross-border partnerships as a foundation for the sustainable development of the Mediterranean region among European Union Member States participating in the MED9 Initiative. The presented poster is available at the following link.
The Forum also included the annual General Assembly of PHILEA, during which the organization’s new leadership was presented. Liisa Suvikumpu of the Association of Finnish Foundations was elected as the new Chair, while new members of the PHILEA Advisory Committee were also appointed. Among them is Ms. Cvjetana Plavša-Matić, Director of the National Foundation for Civil Society Development, who was re-elected to serve on the Advisory Committee for another term.
The Forum concluded with the announcement that Turin will host the Philea Forum 2027. The theme of the next Forum will be democracy, and the event will be organized by Fondazione CRT.
