Charitable Giving: The French Are Becoming Increasingly Generous Despite the Crises
French generosity reaches a record high of 9.2 billion euros: solidarity remains strong despite the crises.
Amid a global context marked by crises and uncertainty, the French—both individuals and businesses—continue to demonstrate unprecedented generosity. According to the third edition of the National Panorama of Generosity, published on December 13, 2024, charitable giving in France reached a record high of 9.2 billion euros in 2022, an 8% increase compared to 2019.
Generosity Driven by Individuals and Businesses
The report, the result of a collaboration between France Générosités and the Fondation de France’s Observatoire Philanthropie & Société, offers an in-depth analysis of generosity in France. In 2022, 58% of donations—amounting to 5.4 billion euros—came from individuals, while businesses contributed 42%, totaling 3.8 billion euros.
Philippe Pailliart, president of France Générosités, emphasizes: “The generosity of individual donors and businesses is a cornerstone of our social model, enabling associations and foundations to act effectively to meet the needs of our fellow citizens.”
The French: Resilient Despite Inflation
The year 2022 also highlighted the resilience of French donors. Despite a difficult economic climate, 5.5 million tax households reported donations totaling 3.6 billion euros. The wealthiest and oldest households play a central role: 53% of donor households have a primary taxpayer over the age of 60, while the top 10% of households contribute the most, particularly through the real estate wealth tax (IFI).
Furthermore, bequests and donations continue to grow, reaching 1.2 billion euros, with a 13% increase between 2019 and 2022. This growth is driven by favorable demographic and wealth trends.
The Rise of Corporate Philanthropy Among Microbusinesses and SMEs
Corporate philanthropy has shown remarkable growth, with the total amount donated increasing 2.7-fold since 2010. In 2022, microbusinesses and SMEs accounted for 98.7% of corporate donors, contributing 34% of the donations reported by companies. At the local level, their involvement is essential for fostering a spirit of solidarity within communities.
Large companies remain the leading contributors in terms of total amounts, accounting for 42% of reported donations, although their share has decreased compared to 2010 (63%).
Renewed and Diversified Generosity
French generosity is also evolving in its forms. Micro-donations, for example, have doubled since 2019, and online charity events, such as ZEVENT, are reaching a new audience. Axelle Davezac, executive director of the Fondation de France, welcomes this development: “The solidarity of the French people is taking creative forms, making it possible to mobilize new donors.”
At the same time, emergency situations—such as the crises in Ukraine or natural disasters—have boosted donations to public organizations (+23% between 2021 and 2022). These events reinforce the ad hoc and targeted mobilization of donors.
A Model to Preserve for the Future
While 9% of people over 50 plan to make a bequest to nonprofit organizations, only 2% actually follow through. To ensure the long-term viability of this model of solidarity, France Générosités is focusing on educating young people about civic engagement and citizenship.
