The Ministry of Social Solidarity is not seeking to tighten the noose on civil society organizations (CSOs) or stifle them, said Minister of Social Solidarity Gouda Abdel Khaleq, adding that it only wants them to operate more effectively and serve Egypt’s interests.
Last month, the ministry began investigating sources of funding for Egyptian CSOs after the US Embassy in Cairo said it provided them with assistance of around US$50 million.
Meanwhile, CSOs suspect the government and the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces intentionally damaged their reputations in order to hamper efforts to defend human rights.
In statements to the press, Abdel Khaleq said that revealing the identities of CSOs which have recently received foreign funds would not serve the cause of justice at the present time.
The results of investigations will soon be announced, said Abdel Khaleq, adding that all details about countries that granted funds and the organizations that received them will be announced after the Eid holiday. Meanwhile, informed sources from the ministry said it is in the process of finalizing amendments to laws concerning CSOs. He added that the amendments will address loopholes abused by some CSO officials to obtain foreign funding in exchange for serving western interests.
He also said the amended law will allow the ministry to monitor funding of CSOs and how they spend their money.
Translated from the Arabic Edition
