Kuwait introduces advanced scientific methods to verify nationality eligibility
In a determined effort to preserve and protect Kuwait’s national identity, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has led a historic campaign to address irregularities in the naturalization process, emphasizing justice, security, and national integrity. Marking this initiative with powerful speeches over two consecutive Ramadans, the Amir’s words have become a call to action, culminating in sweeping legislative and administrative reforms that aim to restore citizenship to its rightful place and ensure it is granted only to those who truly deserve it.
A Vision Rooted in Royal Leadership
The foundation of this national campaign was laid during a Ramadan speech two years ago, when His Highness declared: “It has become clear to all the serious and disastrous damage to national identity caused by tampering with Kuwaiti citizenship.” His most recent speech on May 10, 2024, reaffirmed this commitment, stating unequivocally: “Security is a matter of utmost importance… Whoever obtained nationality unlawfully has benefited at the expense of the rightful citizens.”
These declarations served as the blueprint for bold action, calling for the review of social security laws and addressing cases of forged lineages, dual nationalities, and fraudulent naturalization.
The Fourth Wall: A Symbol of National Defense
In line with the historical walls that once protected Kuwait City, the government is now metaphorically building a “Fourth Wall” — not of stone, but of legal and procedural safeguards to defend Kuwait’s national identity. Following the Amir’s directives, the government swiftly issued an Amiri decree on May 27, 2024, establishing the Supreme Committee for the Acquisition of Kuwaiti Nationality, led by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef.
The committee’s mission: to meticulously examine every nationality file, relying on verifiable data and working in close cooperation with state bodies like the Public Authority for Civil Information.
Key Milestones and Legal Reforms
This national effort has already led to landmark legislative reforms, including:
• Decree-Law No. 116 of 2024 (December 23, 2024):
Amended the 1959 Nationality Law, halting automatic naturalization of wives of naturalized citizens and Kuwaiti men, canceling applications based on the 1965 census, and introducing the use of modern scientific methods in citizenship evaluation.
• Decree-Law No. 158 of 2024 (December 31, 2024):
Focused on accountability, requiring the recovery of all benefits granted to individuals whose citizenship was revoked due to fraud, dual nationality, or disloyal acts. It further empowered the Council of Ministers to decide on retaining some rights in special cases.
• Ministerial Resolution No. 678/2025 (April 19, 2025):
Introduced three scientific methods for evaluating citizenship eligibility: fingerprint/genetic trait analysis, biometric/vital traits, and any new scientific tools discovered in the future.
A Nation Cleansed of Impurities
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef stressed the magnitude of the challenge, acknowledging that “the citizenship issue is thorny and lengthy,” yet affirming the state’s resolve to “resolve all citizenship matters.”
The Amir’s latest directive, issued during the last ten days of Ramadan, captured the spirit of this campaign: “We ask God to help us deliver Kuwait to its original people, clean and free of the impurities that have clung to it.”
Historical Context: The Legacy of the Three Walls
Historically, Kuwait was protected by three physical walls — the first built in 1760, the second in 1814, and the third in 1920. These walls, which were eventually demolished as the city expanded, served as defensive barriers.
Today, the metaphorical “Fourth Wall” represents a new form of protection — safeguarding the nation’s demographic and legal integrity.
What began as a lofty vision voiced during the holy month of Ramadan has become a concrete policy agenda, driven by justice, national pride, and security. Kuwait’s commitment to protecting its identity is not only historical — it is deeply rooted in leadership, law, and loyalty to the homeland. Through these transformative measures, Kuwait is fortifying itself against the erosion of its national character, ensuring a future that honors its people, history, and values.
