Charity Governance Boosts Trust, Transparency in Jordan, Says Ex-Minister

AMMAN - Institutionalizing charitable work is crucial for ensuring fairness and transparency in managing associations and fundraising, according to Reem Abu Hassan, former Minister of Social Development.

Speaking on a local program, Abu Hassan emphasized that most associations in Jordan operate within the ministry's legal framework. She noted that charitable work focuses on addressing the needs of marginalized and vulnerable groups, while volunteer work extends to broader areas related to the environment, culture, and general societal issues.

Abu Hassan added that individuals involved in both charitable and volunteer work do not expect financial compensation. She clarified that charitable work is a subset of volunteer work, but the latter is more comprehensive and diverse in terms of fields and activities.

She stressed that regulating this sector ensures clear budgets, defined work plans, and obtaining prior approvals for fundraising, especially with the issuance of regulations governing fundraising. This enhances governance and increases public trust in the charitable and volunteer sectors, she said.

Abu Hassan explained that institutionalizing volunteer and charitable work contributes to better directing efforts to ensure that support reaches those who deserve it efficiently and fairly. It also provides an institutional environment that ensures the sustainability of charitable and volunteer initiatives and projects.