Kuwait: Charities Can No Longer Hire Influencers, Celebrities & Preachers Without Prior Permission

Kuwait recently updated its regulations for charitable organisations. Yes, according to the updated guidelines, the Ministry of Social Affairs in Kuwait has prohibited such organisations from hiring celebrities, preachers, or social media influencers without prior approval. Here’s all you need to know about this big development in Kuwait.

Charities Can’t Hire Celebs & More With Prior Permission

According to the latest guidelines that have been up to date, charitable organisations can no longer hire celebrities, preachers, or social media influencers without prior written approval from the government. As revealed in a report by the Gulf News, this announcement has come through an official circular. The circular was sent to the charity board across the country, mentioning how the rule has been designed to cleanse the charitable sector. The cleansing is from violations and unauthorised practices that are being undertaken at home and abroad.

Other Things To Know About The Updated Guidelines

So, under the new rules, all the licensed fundraising campaigns must disclose the administrative percentage that has been deducted from the donation. They have also been banned from contracting with advertising agencies, freelance marketers or marketing companies. These contracts are often for managing fundraising websites or campaigns. So, if a charity plans to bring any such notable names on board, it must submit a contract draft to the ministry. This draft must have the terms, project details, financial compensation involved, and service types mentioned in detail.

Also Read: Saudi: Al-Ahsa’s Annual Date Harvest Season Is Here With 20 Juicy Varieties To Sweeten Your Summer!

Charities Can Collect Donations After Complying With These Conditions

As it happens, registered charities can continue to collect donations after they comply with newly introduced conditions, which are as follows:

• Only officially licensed projects by the ministry that align with the charity’s stated objective can raise funds.
• Charities’ official websites are the only place where the fundraising links can be published.
• Marketing firms, volunteer teams, or any other intermediaries cannot be used to collect and promote donations.

To ensure there is compliance, the ministry will soon classify charities into three categories, which include compliant, partially compliant, and non-compliant. Field inspection teams will then be dispatched to ensure that they are adhering to the governance standards.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Anson Fernandez Dionisio