Once a year, the European philanthropic sector gathers for the Philea Forum – the most important meeting for foundations and nonprofit organizations in Europe. Philea, the Philanthropy Europe Association, brings together over 7,500 members from more than 30 countries, united by the goal of promoting a pluralistic, just, and resilient society – with people and the planet at its core.

From June 2–5, this year’s Philea Forum, titled »Power and Equality: A Balancing Act«, will focus on critically examining systemic inequalities and power dynamics. One tangible consequence of such inequality is the increasing polarization of public discourse. But what role does philanthropy play in this context? Does it help maintain existing power structures – or can it be a driver of change?

The Schöpflin Foundation is attending the forum to present the Media Forward Fund, which it co-initiated and supports. In the Agora of the forum, we will demonstrate why a diverse media landscape is essential for balanced reporting – and what can be done to strengthen it. Since 2024, the Media Forward Fund has awarded grants three times a year to public-interest media in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. In the current funding round, 113 media outlets applied. Supporting all applicants would require €28 million in funding – a clear sign of the urgent need to foster journalism that serves the common good, and the role philanthropy can play in closing this gap.