Kuwait's position improves in the US Trafficking in Persons report, moving from Tier 2 Watch List to Tier 2.

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 1: Kuwait has seen a notable improvement in its ranking on the 2025 US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, moving from the Tier 2 Watch List to Tier 2, reflecting the country’s enhanced efforts in combating human trafficking. The upgrade was announced by Kuwait’s Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, on Tuesday.

Minister Al-Sumait, who also serves as the chairman of the Permanent National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, expressed pride in the advancement, stating that it was the result of substantial progress in Kuwait’s legislative and institutional frameworks to address trafficking. The upgrade “reflects a remarkable improvement in Kuwait’s performance and the tangible efforts exerted to comply with international standards,” Al-Sumait told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).

A key factor in this improvement was the implementation of a series of legislative reforms aimed at tightening the country’s anti-trafficking measures. Among these was the issuance of a decree-law in late 2024 that targeted the illegal trade in residence permits and criminalized the practice of employers withholding workers' financial entitlements. Additionally, the government introduced a victim protection system and launched a national plan to combat human trafficking through 2028.

Al-Sumait emphasized that the TIP report places a continuing responsibility on the state to further reform and enhance measures to protect victims, as well as to address international concerns in the field. He noted that Kuwait’s advancement from the Watch List to Tier 2 is not just a reflection of past efforts but also a reminder of the ongoing work needed to ensure the country continues to meet international standards.

In a statement of support, the Public Prosecution recognized the significance of Kuwait’s improved ranking, attributing the progress to combined efforts at both the legislative and executive levels. The Public Prosecution, which is a member of the Permanent National Committee for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, highlighted its role in reorganizing the Capital Prosecution to specialize in human trafficking and migrant smuggling cases. It also pointed to its issuance of internal circulars standardizing investigation procedures and its participation in workshops to train staff in accordance with international protocols.

The Public Prosecution praised the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and the Permanent National Committee, reaffirming its commitment to continuing support for initiatives that enhance Kuwait’s international standing. The committee’s work, according to the Public Prosecution, is integral to strengthening Kuwait’s anti-trafficking strategy and fulfilling its global obligations in this area.

Al-Sumait also acknowledged the work of the committee members and expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the progress achieved, reiterating the nation’s determination to continue improving its fight against human trafficking.

Kuwait had been on the US State Department’s Tier 2 Watch List for three consecutive years before this upgrade. Moving forward, the country is focused on building upon its momentum to further strengthen its legal framework and enforcement mechanisms in line with international standards.