“Affairs Ministry” associations to amend status in 3 months or face dissolution

Al Jarida has learned that the Ministry of Social Affairs, through the Civil Society Associations Department, has recently agreed to grant certain public benefit associations a 3-month grace period to amend their situations. This decision follows their previous designation for dissolution and the liquidation of their funds.

As a significant move, the Ministry will re-evaluate these associations after the grace period expires to assess their level of cooperation and contribution to the community.

According to sources from the Ministry of Social Affairs, the decision to grant a 3-month grace period to these associations reflects the Ministry’s commitment to fostering cooperation with public benefit organizations.

This move aims to allow associations facing potential dissolution to rectify their violations and revitalize their societal role.

Moreover, the Ministry emphasized that this initiative aligns with its goal to encourage associations to fulfill their stated objectives while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

The Ministry explained that its ongoing ‘screening’ process revealed a significant number of associations that were inactive and failed to deliver meaningful services to both the community and their members.

In this context the Ministry revealed that many of these associations appeared to prioritize social prestige rather than making a tangible, positive impact. Despite multiple warnings, they continued to fall short in their societal contributions.

As a result, the Ministry had to take action, issuing decisions to dissolve and liquidate some associations, with plans to dissolve additional ones in the near future.

Furthermore, Law No. 24 of 1962 allows the Minister of Social Affairs to dissolve associations under specific conditions, including if membership falls below the legal minimum, financial obligations are unmet, bylaws are violated, or activities stray from their objectives.

Associations may also be dissolved if they fail to achieve their goals or if required for the public interest. This ensures that associations remain accountable and focused on their mission.

Tighten up Advertising

The Ministry is committed in maintaining a strict approach in accepting applications for new associations. Priority will be given to those with modern objectives that align with the ongoing digital and technological transformation, as well as the rapid scientific advancements worldwide.

Currently, there are approximately 196 registered public benefit associations, covering over 90% of traditional professional, craft, and community activities.

The sources highlighted that several well-known associations provide services to specific groups within society, often sharing the same or very similar goals.

On the other hand, there is a noticeable scarcity in the visibility of associations with newly developed specializations, such as those focused on artificial intelligence and modern sciences.

Considering this viewpoint, the Ministry has decided to create more opportunities for promoting these modern associations, aiming to benefit society and enhance the ability of citizens to engage with and absorb these emerging sciences.