Irish Presidency of the EU: What is in it for philanthropy?
Ireland holds the Presidency of the European Council from 1 July to 31 December 2026. The Irish Presidency comes as an opportunity to further promote an enabling environment for philanthropy and wider civil society and social economy.
Ireland has set forward three priorities for its Presidency:
- Competitiveness
- Values
- Security
The Competitiveness priority will be guided by the ‘One Europe, One Market’ roadmap. This was adopted by the Council, Commission and Parliament in April 2026. It consists of a political and operational commitment towards a more competitive Europe. Philea is following particularly the deliveries of EU Inc. and the omnibus in the area of taxation. A more integrated Single Market should also deliver for philanthropy and foundations as per our European Philanthropy Manifesto, to enable foundations to act and invest across borders.
Within the Values priority, the Presidency commits to supporting the European Democracy Shield and the EU Civil Society Strategy. As part of this, it will “underline the importance of ensuring that EU policy and decision-making is informed by our people and civil society”. This opens the door to more strategic dialogue opportunities for philanthropic organisations, as per our third European Philanthropy Manifesto recommendation. This priority also highlights the advancement of key fundamental rights including social, economic and cultural rights as well as rights of minorities, issues at the heart of our members’ work.
Regarding Security, the Presidency will prioritise supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Additionally, it recognises the many dimensions of security: environmental, economic, health and food security. Philanthropy has a key role to play as partners in advancing these strategic agendas. Leveraging the ongoing negotiations on the next Multiannual Financial Framework, we wlil advocate for more strategic collaboration opportunities with philanthropic organisations.
Ireland is also a unique example of an EU member state with a recently adopted national philanthropy strategy and is therefore well-placed to further advance the single market for public good at the European level. Philea will engage with Irish members to ensure that philanthropy features high on the agenda.
Contact
