Social organizations report that most small organizations, including large social organizations in Mon State with expiring registrations, are struggling to survive and unable to renew their registrations due to the increased renewal fees imposed by the military council.
According to social organizations, the military council has set a “show money” requirement of 50 million kyat for region and state-level organizations, and between 5 to 10 million kyat for township-level organizations, for those seeking to renew their registrations.
An official from the Bobo Win Social Relief Association stated that such a requirement should not be imposed on social organizations that rely on small donations.
Ko Bo Bo Win said, “This requirement is not suitable for us as we are non-profit organizations. We should not be required to present show money. Currently, we receive less than 1 million kyats in monthly donations. Small organizations will have to cease operations. This law makes it even harder for larger organizations to survive.”
Given the situation, officials of philanthropic organizations are calling for the annulment or reduction of the rule.
According to the Organizations Registration Law amended by the military council in 2022, the registration fee for local organizations is set at 100,000 kyats, for region and state-level organizations at 50,000 kyats, and for township-level organizations at 30,000 kyats. The law does not include any provision regarding the requirement for show money.
Furthermore, if an association continues to operate after its registration expires without renewing it, a fine of 500,000 kyats will be imposed. The new law also stipulates that if the fine is not paid, the organization’s representatives could face imprisonment for up to two years.
According to social assistance associations, the military council has stated that it will conduct inspections at entry and exit checkpoints in the coming days to verify whether social assistance organizations are officially registered.
An official from a social relief organization in Thanbyuzayat stated, “Currently, there are no checks. However, they will conduct inspections as they have issued a warning. Social organizations should keep their registration certificates handy while performing their work. They need to complete registration and renewal. Action will be taken against organizations that operate without registration in accordance with the law.”
He continued, “Social organizations in the townships are required to carry an official registration certificate while conducting their activities, display the registration certificate on their vehicles, and make other necessary preparations.”
The military council abolished the 2014 Organizations Registration Law and enacted a new law in August 2022.
Social associations, funeral service associations, and ambulance associations are required to register and renew their registrations with the Ministry of Health.
Sent by IMNA