Philanthropic behavior of the Romanian diaspora

This report offers key insights into the motivations behind Romanian diaspora donations, the areas receiving the most support, country-specific donation patterns, and preferred giving methods. Designed for NGOs, donors and partners, it provides essential data to strengthen the connection between the diaspora and Romanian organizations. Highlights include:

• High engagement: 72% of diaspora members have donated in the past year or plan to donate soon.
• Annual giving: Average donation is €780/year; most give 2 – 4 times per year, usually under €299 total.
• Where they give: 79% donate in their country of residence; only 36% give to causes in Romania (46% amongst US-based donors).
• Top motivations: Trust, impact and personal fulfillment drive giving — especially in Spain, where impact leads.
• Most supported causes: Health (37%), volunteering (34%), education (25%), social services (24%) and development (23%).
• NGOs lead: NGOs are the top recipients of diaspora donations in all countries, particularly in Spain. In the UK, families in need slightly edge out NGOs.

Authors: S.Z. Bartok, Z.L. Fejes and B.M. Radu

Published by: Romanian Diaspora Funding Network, produced by the Research Center for Civil Society

Published: May 2025

Download: Philanthropic behavior of the Romanian diaspora