PRESS RELEASE- Statement and guidance for charities on the evolving situation in Iran
The Commission is aware that charities will be affected in different ways by the current volatile situation in Iran and the wider region and aims to support charities in delivering their charitable purposes within the law.
The regulator is urging charities to review their activities carefully and ensure they remain compliant with UK law while continuing to support communities safely.
Why This Matters for Charities
Periods of international tension can create additional risks for charities, particularly those working overseas or engaging with partners in affected regions. The regulator highlights that trustees must remain vigilant and ensure that all activity continues to serve the charity’s purposes and operate in the organisation’s best interests.
Charities should also consider how public statements, campaigns, and online content could be perceived during sensitive geopolitical events. Trustees remain responsible for ensuring that any political activity aligns with their charity’s objectives and complies with regulatory guidance.
Key Safeguarding and Compliance Considerations
The guidance emphasises several areas charities should review:
Staff and volunteer safety, particularly for those working overseas
Risk management and compliance when operating in complex political environments
Due diligence on partners and beneficiaries, including checks against sanctions lists
Safeguarding responsibilities for staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries
Monitoring links to extremism or terrorism, with the regulator prepared to act where concerns arise
Charities experiencing significant issues or incidents are encouraged to report them promptly to the regulator so that appropriate support and oversight can be provided.
What This Means for Safeguarding Leads
For organisations working internationally or supporting communities connected to the region, this guidance is a reminder that robust safeguarding, governance, and risk management are essential.
Safeguarding professionals and trustees should ensure that policies around international operations, political neutrality, financial controls, and safeguarding practice are up to date and clearly understood by staff and volunteers.
In a complex global environment, charities must balance humanitarian aims with strong governance and safeguarding. Regular policy reviews, staff training, and due diligence checks help ensure organisations remain compliant while protecting the people they serve.
Read the full statement here