Kuwait introduces new rules for domestic violence protection teams
Kuwait has introduced new rules governing judicial control powers for qualified employees at the Protection Centers Department, strengthening procedures for handling domestic violence cases while safeguarding the privacy and rights of victims.
Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah announced the issuance of a ministerial decision regulating the rules and procedures for exercising judicial control by employees of the Protection Centers Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs. The decision implements the provisions of Decree Law No. 11 of 2026 on protection from domestic violence.
Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Wednesday, Al-Huwailah said the decision aims to empower legally and socially qualified national personnel to protect vulnerable groups, monitor domestic violence cases and respond to them promptly within a legal framework based on justice, confidentiality and integrity.
Under the decision, employees granted judicial authority must be Kuwaiti citizens of good character and reputation and submit a recent criminal record. They must also hold at least a bachelor’s degree in psychological counseling, social counseling or law.
Applicants must complete a specialized training course in coordination with the Kuwait Institute for Judicial and Legal Studies and, after passing the course, take the legal oath before the head of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs before beginning their duties.
The authorized employees will have powers aimed at protecting victims, including monitoring violence cases, inspecting locations they are legally permitted to enter, documenting observations and information in official reports, requesting documents, preserving evidence and referring reports to the competent authorities without delay.
The decision also sets clear restrictions on the conduct of authorized employees. They are prohibited from using their influence or authority for personal gain, interfering in family relationships outside the scope of their duties, making media statements or publishing photographs that could reveal the identities of victims.
Employees must also immediately resign from handling a case and notify their direct supervisor if circumstances arise that could create a suspected conflict of interest with any party involved in the incident. The measure is intended to ensure neutrality and objectivity.
The decision further requires strict confidentiality regarding all data, correspondence and documents related to domestic violence cases. This obligation remains in force even after an employee leaves service.
The relevant department will also prepare an annual statistical report to assess the protection system and identify practical challenges. The report must not contain information that could reveal the identities of victims.
Al-Huwailah said the decision represents a significant step in institutionalizing social and legal work in Kuwait and establishing a secure legal framework to protect the dignity of families and their members, particularly children, women, older people and people with disabilities.
