Belarus

Legal forms of philanthropic organizations included in the law: Association, foundation, cooperative, institutions

Five main social issues addressed by these organizations: Health and medical research, youth and family, environment, human rights, sport

Average time established by law to register a philanthropic organization: 31-60 days

Average cost for registering a philanthropic organization: US$120

Public associations and foundations are the most appropriate legal forms for philanthropic purposes; however, registration of an association or foundation is time consuming and is more expensive than the registration of commercial organizations. Moreover, the government often arbitrarily refuses registration to such legal entities. For this reason, the majority of new, small philanthropic organizations register as institutions; therefore, they gain the status of legal entities on the same day, so long as they are in compliance with application requirements.

However, this form is not suitable to all philanthropic initiatives. As a result, large organizations have to spend time and money, and must negotiate with the authorities in order to register as foundations or public associations. The terms “philanthropic organization” or “charitable organization” are not defined in the legislation, but some laws use these terms. The legislation also lacks standards for granting special status to “public benefit organizations.”

Government levels primarily regulating the incorporation of philanthropic organizations: State government