The Kuwaiti Cabinet has approved a significant overhaul of the country’s domestic violence laws. This change seeks to address existing legal gaps and create a stronger safety net for families and children.

Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, announced the approval during the Family and Child Protection Conference this week. She called the changes a “complete revision” of the 2020 law.

What Are The Key Changes In The Law

The new amendments bring the Kuwaiti law in line with international human rights standards. The government focuses on building a more effective prevention and protection system.

  • Survivor-Centric Approach: The law prioritises the well-being of children and victims in all legal procedures.
  • Faster Legal Action: Reforms include updating family courts to expedite decisions and resolve disputes more quickly.
  • Expanded Services: The government plans to improve visitation centres and expand shelter services for those in need.
  • Better Privacy: New judicial procedures will manage family disputes with greater confidentiality to protect family reputations.

Strengthening The National System

Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait stressed that laws alone are not sufficient. He stated that Kuwait is establishing an integrated national system that unites government agencies, the media, and civil society to combat abuse.

The Ministry of Justice is working on a set of related judicial reforms. These updates will make it easier to access legal rights and reduce the negative effects of lengthy court battles on children.

Closing The Gaps

Observers note that the previous 2020 law had challenges in implementation. Some shelters were not operational due to administrative delays. These new amendments specifically target those issues to make protection operational and effective.

The Cabinet has referred the decree-law to His Highness the Amir for final approval. Once signed, the law will ensure complete protection for all family members against all forms of violence.

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