Philanthropic Freedom: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This pilot study, carried out over the last two years, set out to measure a country’s philanthropic freedom or ease of giving. We identified, measured, and compared countries on their incentives and barriers to philanthropic activity, particularly those that are readily amenable to policy changes. Philanthropic freedom in this study refers to the ability of individuals and organizations (both profit and nonprofit) to donate time and money to social causes. Broadly, this study assesses the policies that lead to an environment where philanthropy thrives or, on the other hand, where it is inhibited.