Speaking at the conference on Cross-border philanthropy in Europe in Brussels on 9 December, European Commission Vice-president Barrot stated that philanthropy is an activity of vital economic and social importance; however there is a persisting ‘lack of Europe’ in the field. The Single Market is not a reality for foundations and philanthropic bodies yet, which still face legal and administrative barriers in their cross-border work and cooperation and cannot unleash their full potential. There is a case for considering appropriate EU action to address these hurdles. The European Commission will therefore review potential options with an open mind, including the development of a European Foundation Statute. Encouraging Member States to ensure a fair-treatment of other EU country -based foundations and their donors by adapting their tax laws in line with the EC-Treaty is another line of action of the Commission as well as the review of the VAT treatment of public bodies and public benefit organisations, which the EC is starting.

> Read EFC Briefing on the issue