Kuwait adopts comprehensive regulations to strengthen domestic violence protection system

Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, announced the adoption of comprehensive regulations aimed at organizing procedures for receiving domestic violence reports, managing shelter services, and ensuring structured aftercare support, in a move designed to strengthen Kuwait’s national protection system.

In statements to Al-Qabas, the minister said the new framework comes as part of ongoing efforts to complete and modernize protection mechanisms while enhancing the quality of services provided to individuals and families affected by domestic violence across the country.

Institutional Framework for Rapid Protection

Al-Huwailah explained that the regulations are based on the provisions of Law No. 16 of 2020 on Protection from Domestic Violence, establishing a clear institutional structure that guarantees rapid response to reported cases and provides immediate protection alongside integrated social, psychological, and legal care.

She emphasized that the measures aim to safeguard human dignity while promoting psychological and social stability for beneficiaries and their children, with particular focus on ensuring urgent protection for women facing violence.

The newly adopted framework outlines 16 procedural steps covering swift case response, immediate victim protection, comprehensive care services, and strengthened mechanisms to ensure confidentiality and privacy throughout the reporting and intervention process.

Streamlined Reporting and Referral Mechanisms

Under the regulations, domestic violence cases may be reported directly or referred through six designated authorities: the Ministry of Interior, the Public Prosecution, health institutions, social service entities, civil society organizations, and listening and counseling centers. Reports can be submitted in person or through approved digital platforms and official communication channels, expanding access to protection services.

Upon receiving a report, a specialized multidisciplinary team — including social, psychological, and legal experts — conducts a comprehensive assessment to determine risk levels and case needs. Based on the evaluation, authorities may provide counseling and support services or transfer eligible cases to shelters for immediate protection.

Each case is documented through a professional file, followed by the preparation of an individualized intervention plan coordinated with relevant authorities.

Shelter Services and Eligibility Controls

The minister noted that the regulations introduce clear criteria governing admission to shelters, while identifying cases that cannot be accommodated within these facilities, including individuals suffering from psychotic disorders, severe mental disabilities, substance addiction, or confirmed infectious diseases. In such situations, coordination is undertaken with specialized authorities to provide appropriate alternative care under approved protection plans.

Shelters will offer integrated services including safe accommodation, healthcare, psychological and social support, legal consultations, rehabilitation programs, vocational training, and economic empowerment initiatives aimed at helping beneficiaries achieve independence and rebuild stable lives. Educational and care services for accompanying children will also continue during shelter stays.

Privacy, Confidentiality and Aftercare

Special emphasis has been placed on protecting beneficiaries’ privacy. The regulations prohibit disclosure of personal information or shelter locations and guarantee beneficiaries the right to submit complaints, which will be reviewed through transparent and impartial procedures.

The framework also establishes structured follow-up programs after beneficiaries leave shelters, ensuring continued professional monitoring and individualized support plans to reduce the risk of recurring violence.

Advancing Family Protection

Al-Huwailah described the adoption of the regulations as a qualitative step forward in developing Kuwait’s domestic violence protection system, reinforcing institutional coordination and aligning national practices with international standards.

She stressed that strengthening protection services ultimately contributes to safeguarding families and enhancing overall social stability in Kuwait.