COMMENT Charity is not immune from politics. History is replete with many examples of political families, dynasties and dictatorships who have sustained their political power through charity and establishing foundations. Religion, migration, colonisation and political ambitions have shaped how countries and individuals contribute to charity.

Governments enable the growth of charity nationally through laws, such as tax deductions for individuals and companies who contribute to philanthropy and charity.

It is the function of governments to respond to emergencies caused by natural disasters and do all they must, and can, to save all human lives in danger.