About the project
Led by the Gates Foundation, the past 25 years have seen a surge in mega-foundations that invest millions in global policy to influence health and development priorities.
The project brings together researchers from three University of Oslo departments to examine how private foundations strategically build coalitions to influence democratic processes and global governance.
The project analyzes private foundations' relationships with international organizations like the WHO, national governments in Norway, Kenya and India, and democratic institutions (interest groups, media, research).
Drawing on history, anthropology and international relations, the project aims to advance theoretical and empirical understanding of policy influence, advocacy, and lobbying, while examining how philanthropic partnerships align with or challenge democratic values such as participation, transparency, and accountability.
