The Charity Commission has launched an investigation into East London’s Rio Centre after its decision to cancel a Eurovision viewing party, citing Israel’s participation, which could jeopardize its charitable status.
The Charity Commission of the UK has initiated an investigation into the Rio Centre, a cinema in Dalston, East London, over its decision to cancel a Eurovision Song Contest party, highlighting Israel’s participation as the cause. This inquiry threatens the cinema’s charitable status, as it’s accused of making a politically motivated decision that contradicts its charitable objectives. Founded in 1909 by Clara Ludski, the Rio Centre has been criticised by former Attorney General Sir Michael Ellis MP for what he perceives as prejudiced actions against Jews, calling into question the cinema’s compliance with Charity Commission guidelines.
These guidelines allow for political activities by charities, provided they align with the charity’s purpose, are in the charity’s best interest and remain within legal boundaries. Ellis pointed out a perceived inconsistency in the Rio Centre’s stance, noting the inclusion of performers from other nations with contentious political situations, such as Turkey or Belarus, without similar boycott actions. He urged the Charity Commission to revoke the cinema’s charity status, arguing that its actions were disrespectful to the Jewish community and contrary to the legal principles governing charitable organisations.
The Charity Commission has reached out to the trustees of the Rio Centre for more detailed information as part of their regulatory compliance case. Despite criticism, the Rio Centre had previously underscored the Eurovision Song Contest’s potential to foster global unity, provided its values of inclusivity and equality are maintained. As of the last update, the Rio Centre has not issued a response to the allegations.
