Incident Details
KenyaAnti-Terrorism Amendment Act Restricts NGO Operations
LegislationSevere ImpactEnacted
Summary
The government passed an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act that requires all NGOs to undergo security vetting and obtain special clearance before operating in certain regions. The amendment also grants security agencies broad powers to investigate and suspend NGO operations on national security grounds.
Details
The Anti-Terrorism Amendment Act introduces several provisions that significantly impact civil society organizations:
- Mandatory security vetting for all NGO staff working in designated "security-sensitive areas"
- Requirement to obtain special clearance from the National Security Council before implementing programs in border regions
- Powers granted to security agencies to suspend NGO operations for up to 90 days without judicial review
- Enhanced reporting requirements for all foreign funding received by NGOs
The government has justified these measures as necessary to prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting NGO operations for financing or logistical support. However, civil society organizations have criticized the vague definitions and broad discretionary powers granted to security agencies.
Security Justification
Counter TerrorismNational Security
Affected Rights
AssociationExpressionFunding
Affected Groups
Human rights organizationsHumanitarian NGOsInternational aid organizations