Global Health Progress

The Center for Global Prosperity (CGP) at the Hudson Institute has published The Index of Global Philanthropy 2008. This annual index provides details on the sources and magnitude of private giving to the developing world. The 2008 report shows continued growth of private giving and investment, which now accounts for over 75 percent of donor countries’ entire economic dealings with developing nations.

In the U.S., private philanthropy, along with remittances, to developing nations constitutes four and one-half times the official aid abroad. This amount includes $5.5 billion in contributions by the private sector. According to the Partnership for Quality Medical Donations (PQMD), the pharmaceutical industry contributed approximately $4.8 billion in pharmaceutical and medical supplies.

In addition to providing cash and in-kind donations, U.S. corporations are engaged in global philanthropy in new and diverse ways, especially through the partnerships formed with charitable organizations. Government aid agencies are also changing their business model to leverage official aid with activities launched and run by private businesses, foundations, charities, religious groups and universities.

These partnerships are at the core of the Global Health Progress initiative, which seeks to bring research-based biopharmaceutical companies and global health leaders together to improve health in the developing world. In addition to serving as a convening point for the industry on global health topics, the initiative engages with global health organizations; lends advocacy support to shared goals; identifies best practices for programs that address health needs, and facilitates partnership and research and development efforts to fight neglected diseases in the developing world.

*Adapted from the Index of Global Philanthropy 2008. For the full report, or more information on the Center for Global Prosperity, please visit gpr.hudson.org.