OAFP 9680 - Politics and Policy of Philanthropy

Philanthropic activity takes multiple forms including funding, association, and volunteering, and is undertaken by civil society actors operating outside government and business. From one perspective, these actors function as partners and catalysts, advancing solutions where political will or market incentives fall short. From another, they are viewed more critically as actors whose agendas may conflict with government priorities or the public interest.

Despite differing assessments of its value, philanthropy plays a growing role in policy-relevant domains: funding research, supporting partnerships, piloting social innovations, and sustaining long-term initiatives for the public good across national and global levels. Yet philanthropy does not operate outside politics. Its legitimacy, scope, and influence are shaped by political regimes, legal and fiscal frameworks, funding models, and cultural and historical expectations associated with philanthropic engagement. In short: policy surrounds philanthropy, and philanthropy inevitably intersects with politics.

This course examines the relationship between philanthropy and the policy arena. It analyses complexity in the interaction between public and private institutions and change over time.

Good level of English, spoken and written; understanding of policy processes. No previous knowledge of the philanthropic sector or specific issues is necessary.

The course is structured as a seminar combining short lectures, guided discussions, and in-class activities. Guest speakers from the philanthropic and policy sectors may be invited. Students will engage in both individual and group-based assessments throughout the semester.

The course will combine short lectures, guided discussions, and in-class activities. Assessments include:

A final policy paper integrating previous classwork and providing strategic scenarios for a specific policy domain 35%