Monaco hosts inaugural Summit bringing together the world's leading philanthropists

Convened by Their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, the inaugural Monaco Summit on Philanthropy was held in the Principality on Monday 12 October, bringing together leading names in international philanthropy for a day of high-level discussions dedicated to the future of giving.

Co-organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, with the support of the Tocqueville Foundation, the summit is conceived as an annual gathering and represents a distinctive initiative in the international philanthropy space: a forum convened by a Head of State to bring together those who shape philanthropic giving across the world, beyond the boundaries of individual causes or sectors.

Around 100 philanthropists and decisionmakers from more than 20 countries across five continents, took part in this first edition. Among them were representatives of royal and sovereign-linked philanthropic institutions, foundation founders, family philanthropists and leaders of major international foundations. 

In Their opening addresses, Their Serene Highnesses joined their voices to reaffirm that in an increasingly uncertain global context, philanthropy has a vital role to play in sustaining long- term commitments and addressing challenges that cannot afford to be overlooked.

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco assessed that: “Philanthropy has a decisive role to play, because it enjoys a rare freedom. The freedom to act over the long term. The freedom to take risks. The freedom to support causes that do not yet receive the attention they deserve.” Pointing out that “where Governments often think in years, philanthropy can think ingenerations.”

HSH Princess Charlene of Monaco emphasized: “For me, philanthropy begins with a willingness to care - and the humility to listen. Its strength lies not only in the resources we mobilize, but in the trust we earn, the relationships we nurture and the ideas we give a chance to grow (…) My hope is that we leave this Summit feeling closer to one another, with a deeper understanding of what we can achieve together - and with insights we are ready to put into practice."

Rethinking philanthropy's role in a changing world

At a time when philanthropy is playing an increasingly important role in addressing global challenges, its growing influence raises fundamental questions about the scale of its resources, its relationship with public institutions, its capacity to anticipate emerging crises and the evolution of philanthropic governance.

The Summit provided an opportunity for three generations of philanthropic leaders, from founders to emerging successors, to exchange perspectives on these challenges through thematic sessions covered in different engaging formats.

The discussions started with a fireside chat on the future of giving followed by a foresight on how well do we imagine the future?

The room then addressed models of philanthropy’s role in the nation and the economy while the afternoon open with a session on how futures and foresight entered a foundation: from public lab to boardroom and missions. A conversation followed on how philanthropy develops societies and their institutions was then proposed to the audience. The first edition of the Summit gave the floor as well to the Next Generation Circle – the inheritors, in their own name. Finally, the day concluded with the hot topic of AI inpractice.

Recognising innovative philanthropy

The Summit also provided the occasion for the presentation of the Prince's Prize for Innovative Philanthropy, recognising this year the outstanding work achieved by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). 

Accepting the award from HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco Mr Ibrahim Al Balooshi, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships expressed his gratitude for this recognition. 

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) is a Dubai-based philanthropic organisation established under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Bringing together a wide range of humanitarian and development initiatives, it works to improve lives worldwide through humanitarian aid, healthcare, education, innovation and community empowerment. Its approach places particular emphasis on developing innovative, sustainable solutions to address pressing global challenges and create lasting positivechange.

Establishing a new annual gathering

Throught his inaugural edition, the Monaco Summit on Philanthropy has laid the foundations for an annual international gathering dedicated to the future of philanthropic action.

By encouraging dialogue across generations, geographical regions and philanthropic traditions, the Summit aims to foster the exchange of experience, stimulate new approaches and strengthen the capacity of philanthropy to contribute responsibly and effectively to the common good.

Building on Monaco's longstanding philanthropic commitment

The Monaco Summit on Philanthropy builds on the Principality's longstanding commitment to international solidarity, spanning humanitarian action, education, health, sport and environmental protection.

This tradition is notably reflected in the complementary missions of the two Princely Foundations: the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, dedicated to environmental protection and planetary health, and the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, focused on children's safety and development through drowning prevention and sport.

©Michaël Alesi / Palais Princier