Minister Al-Sumait said, “The unanimous approval of Kuwait’s fourth national report reflects the extent of progress made recently, especially within the short tenure of the current government, regarding important issues included in the report, particularly those concerning citizenship, and civil and human rights, which Kuwait will never compromise. Kuwait succeeded in fulfilling the Human Rights Council’s recommendations ahead of the final session.

The country is currently working to develop legislation related to other recommendations, in line with the directives of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who always emphasizes the importance of ensuring that everyone enjoys their rights without discrimination. Kuwait has taken note of the Human Rights Council’s observations regarding freedom of opinion and expression. It is well known that media and expression freedoms are fully guaranteed in Kuwait under existing laws. However, there are red lines that cannot be crossed, such as harming individuals’ reputations or offending His Highness the Amir.

Kuwait does not allow anything that contradicts Islamic law or is otherwise prohibited by law. Aside from these exceptions, freedom of opinion and expression is protected in Kuwait, and is based on firm and longstanding foundations that date back centuries, not merely decades. Work is currently underway to amend some outdated laws, particularly those related to financial issues, most notably, the penalties for issuing bounced checks. There is an ongoing effort to either repeal or amend the relevant article to protect the human rights of individuals involved, including abolishing criminalization and imprisonment, as these are seen as restrictions on personal freedom.

The report also includes guarantees that the civil rights and freedom of work for individuals whose citizenship has been revoked will not be affected. Measures are being taken in this regard under the directives of the supreme leadership. His Highness the Amir is keen about ensuring that no one is subjected to injustice. This matter is being closely and directly followed by His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince, and His Highness the Prime Minister. Kuwait has recently seen the emergence of new types of crimes that were not seen previously, and these require firm and effective legislation. For this reason, we are working with the relevant institutions to draft practical laws that reflect current realities as well as uphold human rights.”

Regarding the Human Rights Council’s recommendation to abolish the sponsorship (kafala) system, Minister Al-Sumait said, “Serious steps are being taken in that direction. These efforts aim to preserve national sovereignty, as well as ensure workers enjoy their full rights, and to support the development of commercial, industrial, and service sectors.” Minister Al-Sumait affirmed that positive steps have already been taken in response to the Human Rights Council’s recommendation to strengthen legislation for combating domestic violence and to intensify efforts against intolerance, prejudice, and discrimination, particularly toward foreigners. He added that a great deal of work is ongoing to meet the objectives of these recommendations. Minister Nasser Al-Sumait concluded by stressing that, “We are working tirelessly to position Kuwait as a leader in the field of human rights. This mission requires great effort, and we are racing against time to meet the high standards and goals set by His Highness the Amir for the government upon taking the Constitutional oath.”