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Values and Beliefs Shape Giving in Asia, Finds New Report

28 Sep, 2024

A new report by AVPN (Asian Venture Philanthropy Network) finds that faith, and the values, belief systems, moral codes, and religious doctrines, that underlie it, shape much of philanthropy not only across the world, but also in Asia.

This new report launches an ongoing initiative by AVPN to unpack faith and giving in Asia, develop learning opportunities and provide a platform for collective action for social investors across the region, regardless of their faith alignment or lack thereof.

Some observations from the report include:

  • — Knowledge of faith-aligned giving in Asia is still limited despite a sizeable, and growing, community of faith-aligned givers.
  • — The region is the birthplace of several of the world’s most influential and enduring faith traditions and remains a focal point for several religious communities, with a vast majority of its population claiming to be religiously affiliated across Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and other folk or traditional religions.
  • — Asia is home to more than one-third of the world’s billionaires and is witnessing the largest transfer of wealth between first- and second-generation wealth-holders in history.
  • — This convergence of growing wealth and faith alignment is consequential as these faiths—and the philosophies and principles derived from them—continue to guide the generosity, charity, and social responsibility of billions in the region.
  • — Unlike the more visible and vocal philanthropic endeavours often seen in the West, Asian funders, both faith-aligned or otherwise, tend to prefer discretion, often giving without seeking recognition or publicity.

Download the full report here.