Greetings Friend,

2024 is a year of change with more than 60 national elections, involving nearly half the world's population, that could directly influence global grantmakers or your nonprofit partners around the world. Here are some key developments we’re watching:

• European Aid Reductions: Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and France have been cutting aid budgets, reflecting a shift towards prioritizing domestic issues. Recent European Parliament elections saw gains for far-right parties, particularly in Italy, France, and Germany, although these were not as large as anticipated. This shift in political landscape could influence EU policies in areas like migration, climate action, and economic governance.
• Rising Political Violence: Political violence is on the rise globally, with significant incidents reported in various countries. In South Africa, approximately 40 local politicians and activists were killed ahead of the general elections, where the African National Congress (ANC) lost parliamentary majority. In Mexico, a record number of candidates were murdered by criminal gangs before elections. South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung survived a stabbing attack before winning the legislative elections and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced criticism for inflammatory rhetoric against Muslims during the Lok Sabha elections.
• Election Manipulation: In several countries, democratic processes are being compromised by election interference. In Indonesia, the Constitutional Court altered age requirements, allowing the outgoing president’s son to be elected vice president. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele bypassed constitutional limits on re-election by replacing constitutional court judges. Rwanda's President Paul Kagame won 99% of the vote after banning his opponents, and in Russia, President Vladimir Putin secured 88% of the vote amid allegations of disqualifying opposition candidates.

The upcoming November election in the U.S. could have a significant impact globally, especially on foreign aid. If it is a race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, we can expect vastly different approaches to global development, which we know can have direct and indirect impact on global grantmakers. 

All the best, 

Natalie Ross Vice President of Membership, Development and Finance natalie.ross@cof.org	Brian Kastner Director of Engagement brian.kastner@cof.org

Global Resources from the Council

Our New Global Manager

We are excited to introduce Victoria Mèndez as our new Manager of Global Philanthropy. 

Victoria brings a wealth of experience in international grantmaking, disaster response, and locally led recovery. Victoria looks forward to connecting with the Council community and exploring new ways we can support members and partners.   

October Training Dates: Global Grantmaking Essentials

Registration is now open for the next offering of our new global training which will occur virtually on October 9, 10, and 16. Our first offering in March sold out, so register today to secure your spot!

Country Notes

The following countries nonprofit law profiles have been recently updated:

• Ethiopia
• Kenya
• Nigeria
• South Africa

View all Country Notes.

Locally Led Development

We continue to support funders who are realizing commitments to be more locally led in their international work. Here are a few resources to support you:

• Our Locally Led Development resource hub provides valuable insights and resources on making this transition.
• The time is right for donors to deliver on locally led development: Read a recent op-ed by Council board chair Peter Laugharn, President and CEO of the Hilton Foundation, as part of Devex’s #RootsofChange series.
• European foundations coordinated by Philea’s Funders Forum on International Cooperation Partnerships (FFICP) joined U.S. foundations and 20 bilateral funders in a donor pledge, aiming to support locally-led development by empowering local actors.

Global Legal and Regulatory Updates

Kenya

In May 2024, Kenya began enforcing the Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act. This law restricts PBOs from engaging in political activities, such as campaigning or fundraising for political parties. Amid widespread protests against proposed tax increases aimed at addressing Kenya's $80 billion debt crisis, President William Ruto accused the Ford Foundation of funding the unrest, though he provided no evidence. The Ford Foundation denied the allegations but the situation raises concerns about increasing global trends of vilifying foreign funders who support local civil society, especially when civil society speaks out against government activities.

Paraguay

A new bill in Paraguay seeks to impose strict controls on NGOs, requiring them to register and provide detailed reports on activities and finances. The bill was passed without public consultation, raising concerns about its broad and vague terms. It may allow the government to seize private funds and shut down organizations. Amnesty International is calling for the Paraguayan government to engage civil society and ensure that any new laws respect international human rights standards and the right to freedom of association.  

News & Resources

• What Indonesia’s election means for development | Devex
• Georgia’s foreign influence law targets human rights activists. Here’s how funders can take action | Ariadne
• What do the elections across Europe mean for global development? | Devex 

Keep in Touch!

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