Juvenile protection unit steps up efforts against bullying, cyber abuse
Kuwait’s Juvenile Protection Department is stepping up efforts to protect children and young people through preventive awareness programs, early intervention and closer coordination with families and relevant institutions, an officer from the department has said, stressing that safeguarding juveniles is a shared responsibility.
First Lieutenant Abdullah Al-Awadhi, an officer at the Juvenile Protection Department under the General Department of Criminal Investigation, said the department handled cases involving juveniles, including investigations, evidence collection and the implementation of relevant judicial rulings and decisions. It also coordinates with social welfare institutions affiliated with the Ministry of Social Affairs in accordance with the law.
Speaking to Kuwait Radio, Al-Awadhi said the department’s responsibilities extended beyond responding to incidents to include prevention, awareness and early intervention aimed at protecting children and supporting their psychological and social well-being.
He noted that juvenile cases had declined compared with 2025, while emphasizing the need to sustain awareness campaigns and strengthen cooperation between families and the institutions responsible for children’s protection.
Al-Awadhi said the department held meetings throughout the year with government and private-sector entities to coordinate efforts and exchange expertise. It also organised awareness lectures in schools to educate students about harmful behaviours and risks that could jeopardise their safety and future.
The awareness programs address a range of issues, including bullying, cyber abuse, the misuse of mobile phones and smart devices, and drug-related risks. The department also cooperates with public and private institutions to organise exhibitions and events focused on children, while providing specialised training to develop the skills of its staff.
Al-Awadhi explained that the term juvenile applies to any male or female who has not reached the age of 18. He said the department was open to receiving reports and enquiries 24/7 through its hotline, 25589535.
Regarding cybercrimes and violations involving technology, he said the Juvenile Protection Department coordinates with the Cybercrime Department, which handles the technical aspects of cases involving mobile phones and smart devices. When a case involves a child or juvenile, the two departments coordinate to complete the necessary procedures before referring it to the competent authorities.
Al-Awadhi stressed that families play a central role in protecting children by monitoring their activities, educating them about potential dangers and paying attention to changes in their behaviour. He urged parents to remain aware of their children’s surroundings and their use of smartphones, electronic devices and social media applications.
He also cautioned against involving children in disputes between parents, particularly during family conflicts or separation, warning that such situations could have adverse psychological effects. Children, he said, should be protected from the burden of adult disagreements, with their emotional and social well-being remaining a priority.
On legal responsibility, Al-Awadhi said the measures applicable to a juvenile depended on the nature of the act committed and the relevant provisions of the law. He stressed the importance of educating both children and parents about legal obligations and the consequences of unlawful behaviour.
