New findings from the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) shed light on worldwide donation habits and elements that encourage generosity. Serving as the premier international analysis of giving and societal structures, the CAF World Giving Report draws from surveys of over 60,000 individuals across 105 countries.

Worldwide, 61 percent of respondents made donations in the past year, whether directly to those in need, to charitable organizations, or for religious purposes. This marks a modest drop from 64 percent the prior year. Donors contributed an average of 1 percent of their income, though regional differences stand out. African nations averaged 1.6 percent of income given, while European countries averaged 0.6 percent.

Nigeria ranks as the most generous nation globally, with residents donating an average of 2.8 percent of income to charities, religious causes, or people facing hardship. The top ten most generous countries all lie in Africa and Asia.

Among age groups measured by share of income, those aged 25 to 44 prove the most generous, giving twice the proportion on average compared with those over 55 (1.2 percent versus 0.6 percent).

Religious causes attract the largest share of support at 31 percent of donors. Causes focused on children and young people along with poverty relief each draw 29 percent.

People worldwide show stronger preference for organizations operating locally (56 percent) or nationally (55 percent) over those active across multiple countries (22 percent). Donors in higher-income European nations, however, direct a larger portion toward international work than donors in lower-income regions.

The study examines influences on giving such as personal values, community expectations, and feelings of local connection. Nations where over 80 percent of residents report strong community belonging donate nearly three times more than those with weaker belonging levels.

Mark Greer, Managing Director at the Charities Aid Foundation, noted that giving stems from personal values, situations, and life experiences. Understanding these patterns globally helps strengthen civil society through vibrant giving cultures.

Everyone can contribute to expanding generosity. Promoting open discussions and concrete steps by individuals, charities, businesses, and governments builds more resilient communities.