ISLAMABAD: Religious motivation continues to place Pakistanis among the world’s leading donors, although financial hardship prevents many from giving, according to a new report by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP). Drawing on the World Giving Report 2025 and surveys of more than 5,000 non-profit organisations, the findings show that about 73 per cent of Pakistanis donated money in 2024.
This rate exceeds the global average of 64 percent and the continental average of 69 percent. Consequently, Pakistan ranks 17th out of 101 countries for generosity and also holds the same position for the proportion of income donated. At 1.64 per cent of income, Pakistan’s donation level exceeds the global average of 1.04 per cent, despite a largely low- and middle-income population.
However, affordability remains a major constraint. The report notes that 42 per cent of people did not donate in 2024 because of financial limitations. Among non-givers, lack of affordability was the most frequently cited reason, while 18 per cent preferred to contribute in-kind, such as food or other assistance.
Direct giving dominates as volunteering lags behind
The PCP report highlights that Pakistanis prefer direct giving. Nearly 45 per cent of all donations in 2024 went directly to individuals or families in need, compared with 33.8 per cent to charities and 21.5 per cent to religious causes. This pattern reflects strong community ties and faith-based traditions such as Zakat, Sadaqah and Fitrana.
Religious obligation remains the top motivation for giving, cited by 58 per cent of donors, followed by compassion for a cause and a sense of duty. Additionally, Pakistanis donate frequently, with nearly 39 per cent giving at least six times during the year, often around religious occasions.
In contrast, volunteering remains limited. Only 16 per cent of people volunteered time in 2024, averaging 3.5 hours per person, well below global and regional levels. The PCP says improved regulation, transparency and public trust could further increase charitable contributions nationwide.
