Ban on use of children in fundraising campaigns

Saudi Arabia is moving to regulate its non-profit sector with new draft rules aimed at enhancing transparency and credibility in fundraising. The National Center for the Non-Profit Sector has launched the draft Fundraising Governance Rules, which include a significant provision banning the use of children in fundraising campaigns.

The initiative seeks to strengthen governance and compliance among licensed entities, protect the rights of both donors and beneficiaries, and standardize fundraising practices. The draft rules, published on the Istitlaa public survey platform, are open for public feedback and suggestions until September 10.

Key provisions include detailed requirements for obtaining fundraising licenses, such as having a legal basis, meeting governance standards, and demonstrating a clean record. The rules also stipulate that licenses must be purpose-specific and time-limited. Furthermore, advertisements soliciting donations will need to include a QR code for a "Donate Safely" service, allowing donors to verify the license's validity. Misleading information, exaggerated claims, and content that could undermine charitable work or provoke controversy are prohibited.

Beyond the ban on child participation, the draft rules emphasize protecting the privacy of donation recipients. They prohibit the photographing or displaying of beneficiaries in ways that violate their dignity or exploit their circumstances. The regulations aim to create a more robust and trustworthy framework for charitable giving in the Kingdom.