At the Open Dialogue Foundation, we are currently conducting a joint research project with the Democratic Futures Project at the University of Virginia to explore that question.
As part of this work, we are speaking with people across philanthropy and civil society about experiences with banking, compliance, financial access, privacy, and the broader pressures, including transnational repression, that can affect charitable and democratic work.
We know these issues can take many different forms, from administrative burdens to concerns about data, visibility, and how organizations and their partners are treated. Our goal is to listen, learn from those working in this space, and help inform practical recommendations for stronger protections.
If you work in philanthropy, civil society, donor advising, digital rights, or a related field and would be open to a short conversation, we would be very grateful to connect. If you know someone whose perspective would be valuable, we would also greatly appreciate any introductions. Please feel free to message us directly if you would be open to a brief conversation or know someone we should speak with.
