Cyprus Presidency of the European Council: What is in it for philanthropy?
Cyprus took over the Presidency of the European Council in January, setting the agenda for the next six months. In line with the European Commission’s priorities and reflecting the current state of global affairs, it focuses on “An Autonomous Union open to the World.” But what is in it for philanthropy?
Autonomy through security, defence readiness and preparedness
The EU Democracy Package remains high on the agenda, constituting the European Democracy Shield and the EU Strategy for Civil Society. Philea will work towards its implementation, including the civil dialogue platform and donor dialogue.
Autonomy through competitiveness
The Competitiveness agenda will be further pursued, potentially opening avenues to provide a clear and predictable regulatory framework for philanthropy, including when acting across borders. This includes the completion of the Single Market and Philea’s engagement will focus on delivering for a single market for the public good. Work on the 28th Regime will be initiated, which will be of importance to foundations supporting innovation. In this context, the Presidency will also work to advance the Savings and Investments Union and increase the efficiency of capital markets.
Open to the world, autonomous
Philea will also continue engaging around the Global Gateway, where the Cyprus Presidency will seek to create stronger synergies between emergency relief and long-term development, which resonates with philanthropic organisations’ activities outside of Europe. The Presidency seeks to continue facilitating the distribution of aid in Gaza and ensure sustained support for Ukraine.
An autonomous union of values that leaves no one behind
The Presidency highlights the importance of the rule of law, fundamental rights and democracy including annual rule of law cycle and ongoing article 7 procedure. It will seek to discuss results of the mid-term review of the Strategy to strengthen the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and aim to adopt Council Conclusions. This closely links to our work since Philea will analyse the application of the Fundamental Rights Charter on the operating space for philanthropy. The Presidency will furthermore work on the implementation of the European Affordable Housing Plan, which also refers to philanthropy as a key actor. Moreover, the Presidency will work towards the full implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, promote gender equality, remove barriers for people with disabilities, and support active ageing with dignity, solidarity and intergenerational balance. It will also facilitate discussions on the forthcoming EU Intergenerational Fairness Strategy.
A long-term budget for an autonomous union
Last but not least, the Presidency will advance negotiations on the next MFF, aiming to submit a mature negotiating framework with indicative figures by June 2026. Philea works alongside its members to ensure that the next MFF is fit for partnering with philanthropy and delivers for our key civil society and social economy partners and our cross-cutting themes: democracy, climate and equality.
Contact
