KUWAIT CITY, July 6: The Ministry of Social Affairs has issued new regulatory conditions for charitable organizations wishing to resume fundraising activities, according to informed sources who spoke to Al-Rai. The updated guidelines require prior approvals from relevant government bodies, detailed internal documentation, and strict adherence to operational standards.

Sources indicated that charities must now obtain approval from the Ministry of Interior for local projects, while international initiatives will require clearances from both the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs. Additionally, organizations must respond to a set of 10 key questions and submit supporting documentation for each affirmative response before being allowed to relaunch their fundraising operations.

The Ministry has formally notified the heads of charitable associations and foundation boards of directors about the new requirements. The mandatory questionnaire addresses core aspects of each charity’s governance and operational structure. Among the focal points are the presence of an internal administrative and financial framework, the appointment of a general or executive director and an internal auditor, and whether the organization operates from residential headquarters. It also asks whether aid is distributed through a centralized system.

In an official circular, the Ministry clarified that all previously issued licenses for local and international charitable projects have been revoked. Organizations must now submit new applications through the automated system for managing charitable associations and foundations.

The directive outlines four key controls under the new licensing system:

The new measures are part of a broader effort by the Ministry to enhance oversight, ensure transparency in charitable work, and align operations with national regulatory standards.