'Recruit youths' to serve society

Dubai: The study by the John D. Gerhart Centre for Philanthropy and Civic Engagement highlighted several points in Arab philanthropy.

"In places where state policies or international politics are not conducive to the establishment of foundations at home, philanthropists find ways to register institutions abroad to operate effectively in the region," it said.

"With the philanthropic sector becoming more institutionalised, proactive, entrepreneurial and influential, expectations regarding the returns on social investment have risen. Foundations are expected to go beyond showy press releases to demonstrate results.

"In nearly all contexts, civil society legislation is far too restrictive to unleash the full participation of citizens in the development of their societies.

"It would be refreshing to see [youths] serving on the boards of philanthropies."