Embezzlement of NGO funds

On Thursday, December 4, a Middle East policy breakfast was held at the Federal Parliament Building in Bern under the patronage of National Councillor Nicole Barandun (center).

Together with the Israeli Ambassador to Switzerland, Tibor Shalev Schlosser, and Olga Deutsch, Vice President of NGO-Monitor, members of parliament discussed the challenges associated with the reconstruction of Gaza and the role of NGOs.

Members of the Council of States and the National Council from various parties were present: SVP, EDU, FDP, SP and Mitte (former CVP)

Olga Deutsch presented current findings showing that NGOs in Gaza are collaborating with Hamas and that financial flows demonstrate how funds from Switzerland are not reaching those in need but are controlled by Hamas. This deliberately undermines NGOs that want to work independently and hinders their effectiveness. She also referred to similar investigations by Hillel Neuer (UN Watch) showing that UNRWA also operates facilities such as schools and hospitals that are used by Hamas.

Further criticisms concerned the Swiss NGO Sadaka, which also collaborates with Hamas. The Red Cross has not yet visited any Israeli hostages, but has focused exclusively on Palestinian concerns. The danger was also highlighted that the Muslim Brotherhood can move freely in Switzerland and direct financial flows unhindered.

The aim of the meeting was to raise awareness among parliamentarians about these issues and to initiate a debate in the National Council and the Council of States. Switzerland should exercise stricter control over NGOs with ties to Gaza and ensure that financial resources actually benefit the people who need them. The focus of this effort must be on deradicalization in order to make a sustainable contribution to reconstruction and stability in the Middle East.