Beyond the headlines: What mobilizes philanthropy to act in complex crises
9:00am ET / 8:00am CT / 1:00pm GMT
Philanthropic giving often spikes after high-profile disasters. Yet, crises that layer conflict, political instability and large-scale humanitarian needs often pose barriers that deter engagement.
New research findings from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy and Accountable Now highlight that while funders care deeply about humanitarian crises, they seek clear, proximate and safe pathways for action that can be harder to find.
CDP hosted this webinar on May 7, 2026 and talked about looking beyond the headlines to explore what mobilizes philanthropy to support complex crises. Panelists bridged the perspectives of philanthropy and frontline response to discuss why some crises receive philanthropic attention while others remain underfunded, what drives donors to take action, and solutions and opportunities for unlocking greater philanthropic engagement.
CDP’s CEO and President Patty McIlreavy moderated a conversation with the following panelists:
- Tirana Hassan, CEO of Doctors Without Borders (MSF-USA)
- Catherine Green, Head of Urgent Challenges at Minderoo Foundation
Please see the slide deck and watch the webinar recording to learn more: