Decision to end donation collection sparks debate

Arab Times

27-05-2025

KUWAIT CITY, May 27: The recent decision of the Ministry of Social Affairs to suspend donation collections by charitable societies and foundations until further notice is a regulatory step that has sparked widespread debate among those active in the charitable sector. This move is part of a general trend to reassess the mechanisms for charitable work -- a field in which Kuwait has long played a prominent role, both domestically and internationally. While some view the decision as a necessary measure to introduce stronger oversight, others argue that it risks disrupting a vital pillar of the soft power and humanitarian outreach of the country.
Critics of the suspension emphasized the longstanding reputation of the country as a global leader in charitable and humanitarian efforts. They stressed that oversight must be part of a continuous development process -- ensuring transparency and accountability -- without hindering the sector's ability to support beneficiaries or undermining public trust in philanthropy.
Former MP Dr. Mohammad Al-Dallal told the newspaper that charitable work is central to the soft power of Kuwait, reinforcing the country's humanitarian image at both official and grassroots levels. He highlighted the historic role of Kuwaiti charities in bolstering the nation's international standing and noted their pivotal contributions during national crises, especially during the Iraqi invasion. Al-Dallal called for balanced reforms, stressing the need for responsible governance without imposing undue restrictions. He urged the ministry to issue a clear regulatory framework that empowers charities while ensuring proper oversight.
In contrast, writer Ahmed Al-Sarraf expressed support for the decision, arguing that the charitable sector has operated for decades with insufficient oversight. He warned that some associations have been misused to fund illicit activities, serving partisan or personal interests.
Speaking to the newspaper, Al-Sarraf revealed that a temporary committee has been formed to draft a comprehensive law regulating charitable activities. 'The committee recently discussed a key provision concerning the disproportionate allocation of funds to foreign efforts over domestic needs,' he added. He recommended banning all external charitable activity unless conducted under direct government supervision through a unified platform. He also called for strict rules prohibiting political involvement by charitable organizations, demanding transparency in financial reporting and restrictions on receiving funds from government or foreign sources. He proposed that annual budgets be publicly disclosed in at least two daily newspapers.
Meanwhile, preacher Faisal bin Qazzaz Al-Jassem voiced concern over the suspension through the 'X' platform; warning that even a temporary freeze could severely impact Muslims and philanthropists reliant on these organizations. He affirmed that the charitable and relief associations in Kuwait are unparalleled in the Islamic world, often filling gaps where other nations fall short. He asserted that 'tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands of people are affected by the decision -- orphans, families, preachers, imams, orators, teachers, educators, doctors, nurses and directors of centers, institutes and universities -- have no source of support other than Allah and the charities. Therefore, freezing the accounts means halting all of these activities and rendering all of them unable to continue their work; especially for the orphans, widows, families, patients and health centers.'