When a new member joins the EFC they are required to 'tick' a box on the membership application form, indicating that their organisation adheres to the EFC Principles of Good Practice. These Principles represent a shared vision of best practice and transparency in the areas of compliance, governance, informed policies, stewardship, disclosure, cooperation and monitoring & evaluation. But does a tick on a membership application form translate into action by European foundations, and if so, how?

On 10 March 2009, a lively discussion took place involving foundation representatives from across Europe on how the EFC Principles of Good Practice can be, and are, applied to daily work. Participants were given the the chance to share their own challenges and successes in adopting the Principles, as well as listen to examples from colleagues through
case presentations, with ample provision for questions and discussion. The event also aimed to update and bring to life the EFC Illustrative Practice Options, which facilitate and guide the implementation of the seven Principles.

Welcome by Rien van Gendt, Van Leer Group Foundation

Principle 1: Compliance
Compliance with laws of the state in which they are based, and action in accordance with bylaws.

Ana Sastre Campo, Fundación ONCE
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Principle 2: Governance
Presence of a decision-making body whose members act in accordance with established principles, procedures and the highest ethical standards.

Louis Verbeke, King Baudouin Foundation
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Principle 3: Informed policies, operations and support programmes
Definition of a clear set of basic policies and procedures specifying mission, objectives, goals and related programmes, which are reviewed on a regular basis.

Clare Thomas, City Bridge Trust
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Principle 4: Stewardship: management and finance
Promotion of efficient work while ensuring prudent and sustainable management, investment strategies, and use of resources for public benefit. Establishment of proper bookkeeping according to national standards.

Boudewijn De Blij, Stichting Fonds 1818
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Principle 5: Disclosure and Communication
Acting in a transparent manner through effective disclosure and communication.

Dario Bolis and Pier Mario Vello, Fondazione Cariplo
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Anette Meister, Körber Stiftung
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Principle 6: Monitoring and Evaluation
Organising appropriate monitoring and regular evaluation of actions and programmes.

Elena Konovalova, Victoria Children Foundation
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Principle 7: Cooperation
Sharing know-how and experience with peers and other stakeholders to advance good practice and cooperation in order to maximise impact in fields of activity.

Viera Klementova, Slovak-Czech Women’s Fund
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Closing remarks by Rien van Gendt, Van Leer Group Foundation