Minister of 'Social Affairs': Charitable work regulation law is for organization, not restriction... Security inquiry is a precautionary measure, not an accusation

- We protect the sector from interlopers and safeguard donors’ funds... The reputation of associations is a shared responsibility

- It is essential to select experienced and competent staff to reinforce the principles of transparency and integrity

Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailan, Minister of Social Affairs, Labor, Social Development, Family, and Childhood, affirmed that the Law Regulating Charitable and Humanitarian Work comes within the framework of regulating the charitable sector and enhancing trust among charitable associations, donors, and beneficiaries, and is not intended to restrict associations or limit their role. She emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to supporting associations and enabling them to fulfill their mission in a continuous and sustainable manner.

Al-Huwailan stated, during her meeting with representatives of charitable associations to discuss the Law Regulating Charitable and Humanitarian Work, that her doors are open to all initiatives, cooperation, and partnership opportunities. She explained that the meeting was held upon the issuance of the law to outline its provisions, definitions, objectives, and implementation mechanism, alongside opening a direct dialogue with associations to familiarize them with the law and discuss various observations and inquiries related to it.

She added that the law was introduced “to regulate, not to restrict,” and helps enhance trust between associations, donors, and beneficiaries. She stressed that it supports associations and does not target them with restrictions, but rather stems from the Ministry’s duties and Kuwait’s adherence to international conventions.

She underscored the importance of protecting the charitable sector from any practices that might harm its reputation, noting the existence of some individuals with weak moral character who exploit the names of certain charitable associations, including, unfortunately, some who work within these associations.

Al-Huwailan clarified that the law organizes and clarifies responsibilities, contributing to safeguarding the charitable sector, which has a clear footprint in the map of charitable and humanitarian work. She pointed out that shared responsibility requires compliance with laws and regulations, financial and administrative oversight, and the preparation of various reports, each according to their respective responsibilities and jurisdictions.

She called on charitable associations to keep communication channels open with the Ministry and to report immediately any attempt to exploit the name of any association, enabling the Ministry to take necessary legal actions and maintain continuous contact with the concerned association to protect it and preserve its reputation.

She affirmed that the Ministry does not accuse anyone or question anyone’s intentions, but recognizes that some individuals with weak moral character may attempt to exploit any sector or field to achieve personal goals. She stressed that what matters most to the Ministry is preserving the charitable sector and protecting donors’ funds.

She emphasized the necessity of conducting security background checks on employees in charitable associations, explaining that this measure is precautionary and not an accusation against anyone or an expression of distrust, but rather part of ensuring all procedures are taken to protect the sector and guarantee the integrity of work within it.

She noted that the Ministry is always ready to answer any questions or provide any assistance or inquiries that associations may need, affirming: “We are in the same boat and one team to enhance charitable work.”

Al-Huwailan highlighted the importance of carefully selecting employees in charitable associations, leveraging the expertise of experienced individuals and strengthening competencies, which contributes to supporting integrity and governance within associations. She emphasized the importance of continuing to develop performance and enhance practices that preserve the sector’s reputation.

She affirmed that the world recognizes the importance of Kuwait’s role in the field of charitable and humanitarian work, pointing out that localizing charitable work and directing a larger share of initiatives inward is a key priority, based on the principle: “The best of you are those who are best to their people.”

She clarified that directing charitable work inward does not mean neglecting those in need outside Kuwait, but rather reflects a priority given to the needs within Kuwaiti society, while continuing to assist others in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory frameworks.

She added that the meetings with charitable associations aim to explain the law regulating charitable work in a simplified manner, given that it contains provisions affecting various aspects of the sector. She emphasized that the Ministry is currently preparing the executive regulations for the law in preparation for their issuance.

Al-Hawila called on representatives of the associations to submit their observations and proposals regarding the executive regulations, affirming that the Ministry welcomes all feedback that could enhance operations and serve the public interest. She stated that the Ministry exists to support and back the associations.

She stressed the importance of maintaining ongoing communication between the Ministry and charitable associations, noting that the proper implementation of the law fosters mutual cooperation, preserves the charitable sector, and strengthens trust between the associations and society, thereby enabling the associations to continue their work in a continuous and sustainable manner.

Al-Hawila pointed out that many charitable initiatives lack sustainability, expressing hope that the coming phase will witness more sustainable and entrenched charitable efforts, contributing to enhancing Kuwait’s reputation in various fields, both domestically and internationally.

She noted that the reports and meetings held with ambassadors and officials reflect the esteemed status of Kuwaiti charitable work, explaining that several ambassadors praise Kuwait’s role and appreciate the efforts of Kuwaiti charity, highlighting the support and assistance it provides.

She affirmed that charitable associations serve as the “right hand and pillar” of this sector, contributing to elevating Kuwait’s name across various forums. She stressed the necessity of preserving this bright image of Kuwaiti charitable work, regardless of occasional blemishes that may arise from time to time.

Al-Hawila warned against “mercenaries and interlopers” in the charitable sector, urging associations to protect the sector from any interventions or practices that could harm it or tarnish its reputation. She confirmed that the Ministry will continue cooperating with the associations to safeguard the sector and promote integrity, governance, and compliance with laws and regulations.

She emphasized that the shared goal of the Ministry and charitable associations is to preserve Kuwaiti charitable work, protect donors’ funds, enhance public trust in the associations, and ensure the sector continues fulfilling its humanitarian mission, thereby reflecting Kuwait’s standing in the field of charitable and humanitarian work.