The chairman of the Charity Commission, Orlando Fraser, has emphasized that he will not allow the watchdog to be used as a tool in society’s “culture wars.” Mr. Fraser stated that while charities typically promote unity, they can become entangled in intense public debates that challenge the essence of the nation. He stressed the importance of highlighting the critical work charities do but also acknowledged the risks they face when caught in what he termed the “culture wars.”
During a speech launching the commission’s five-year strategy in London, Mr. Fraser underscored the commission’s commitment to upholding the law without being influenced by any external interests such as politics, the media, or the sector itself. He expressed concerns about the increasingly divisive and distrustful nature of society, noting the diminishing shared values and norms compared to past decades.
In response to concerns raised by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, Mr. Fraser warned Muslim and pro-Palestinian charities against allowing their premises, events, or online content to become platforms for hate speech. He affirmed his intention to be a tough enforcer of charities law while also promoting a democratic, pluralistic, and tolerant culture to support a diverse charity sector.
Mr. Fraser highlighted the importance of dealing with intentional wrongdoers in the charity sector, recognizing the need to support trustees in running their organizations effectively. He emphasized the unifying potential of charities, citing examples of their positive impact during the pandemic and in response to international crises. Despite the inherent contentious nature of their work, he assured his audience that the commission would handle challenges with a focus on respect, tolerance, and kindness.
The Charity Commission, founded in 1853, remains one of the oldest regulators in continuous operation globally, a testament to the enduring role and significance of charities in national life. Mr. Fraser’s predecessors at the commission, such as William Shawcross, have also played key roles in evaluating government strategies related to extremism and charity governance.