Ombudsman report paints scathing picture of Ark of the World charity

Kivotos tou Kosmou (Ark of the World) used cruel forms of punishment to 'discipline' its wards - including physical violence, days and even weeks of isolation and forced labor - and denied them visits with their families, according to an investigation by the Greek Ombudsman into the children's charity whose founder, a priest, stands accused of sexual and physical abuse.

"The standing and public affirmation surrounding its public image had effectively placed Kivotos tou Kosmou beyond the criticism and scrutiny of the state's competent authorities," said the 24-page report submitted on Monday to the deputy minister for social welfare and solidarity, Domna Michailidou, with the findings of Ombudsman Andreas Pottakis and his assistant Theoni Koufonikolaou.

Acting on complaints received in May-September 2022 concerning abusive practices in the charity's main branch in the...