MCF Statement on Charity Commission Guidance for Charities Operating in the Middle East

Muslim Charities Forum welcomes the Charity Commission’s efforts to provide guidance to charities operating in the Middle East. We appreciate the Commission’s proactive approach in recognising the unique challenges faced by charities working in complex environments, while supporting trustees in meeting their duties.

The guidance represents a positive step towards helping charities navigate legal and operational risks. We value efforts to ensure that robust governance goes hand in hand with the ability to deliver essential humanitarian assistance.

That said, the guidance should also reflect the transformative nature of the challenges, particularly around upholding humanitarian values and enabling the delivery of vital aid. We encourage greater recognition of the legal avenues available for humanitarian work under general or specific licences, as well as clearer acknowledgement of the challenges many charities face around financial access, banking delays, and reputational risks.

At the same time, it is imperative that messaging around these issues is delivered sensitively, to avoid inadvertently implicating or deterring charities.

Commenting on the guidance, Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of MCF, said:

“The guidance marks a proactive step by the Commission, showing its dedication to helping charities navigate through complex legal and operational challenges. However, the framing must not lead to the discouragement of charities from delivering life-saving aid in some of the most vulnerable communities, creating a chilling effect on charitable activity.”

MCF stands ready to work collaboratively with the Charity Commission and other stakeholders to strengthen sector guidance, safeguard humanitarian space, and support trustees in delivering aid safely, legally, and effectively in regions where it is most urgently needed.