Privatization models for the NGO endowments and role of the European foundations for sustainability of the NGO sector in Europe

This is a rather specific phenomenon, reflecting particular historical circumstances, mainly massive privatization in CEE countries after 1989 (Czech Endowment Fund, Polish Science Foundation), or case of Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt created from sale of state shares in a chemical corporation completed in 1989. All are very different models, reflecting different cultural traditions, momentary political situations, specific points in time. Nevertheless, some shared features exist:

• uncertainty and/or differences as to where they lie on the public/private spectrum
• the struggle to become truly independent, free of governmental and other political influences
• the need for such endowments to clarify their mission: a funding institution, or an NGO?
• the need for the professionalization of such endowments (improved managerial skills, greater financial acumen, etc.)

The wide variety of legal definitions of foundations/endowments exist in Europe. As a result, it is impossible to harmonize these and impose one standard definition of what a foundation/endowment is. Nevertheless, there was a wide agreement at the Conference that there is a need to clarify this status, and to establish minimum guidelines as a means for achieving comparability and transparency. Therefore an idea of a European Foundation status as a mechanism not for harmonizing regulations in all EU countries but as a means of setting minimum conditions for transparency and in order to enable tax deduction on charitable giving across the EU was supported.