Kuwait provided assistance to 49,915 families and over 56,834 individuals in 2023
The Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, confirmed today, Wednesday, 25 December, that the State of Kuwait is continuing its humanitarian efforts to support those in need in Arab and Islamic countries.
In her speech at the 44th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, emphasized that the State of Kuwait categorically rejects the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation in both Palestine and Lebanon.
Al-Huwailah highlighted that Kuwait has contributed to the capital of the Al-Aqsa and Jerusalem Fund and has further expanded the channels of permanent aid to charitable organizations operating in Palestine and Lebanon.
Al-Huwailah emphasized the State of Kuwait’s commitment, represented by the Ministry of Social Affairs, to closely monitor the implementation of decisions made during the meetings of the Council of Ministers of Social Affairs. She highlighted Kuwait’s dedication to following up on the social dimensions of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which were discussed at the 44th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs.
Regarding the elimination of multidimensional poverty in the State of Kuwait, Al-Huwailah stated that Article 11 of the Kuwaiti Constitution guarantees “assistance to citizens in the event of old age, illness, or financial disability.” She emphasized that the Ministry of Social Affairs has submitted several laws aimed at addressing these issues.
Al-Huwailah highlighted that one of the most prominent laws in this regard is the Public Aid Law No. 12 of 2011. This law serves a wide range of beneficiaries, including the elderly, widows, unmarried women, families of prisoners, women married to non-Kuwaitis, individuals suffering from chronic diseases, and those facing financial disabilities.
Al-Huwailah explained that the number of families receiving social assistance in Kuwait amounted to more than 49,915 families and more than 56,834 individuals in 2023.
Regarding the care of persons with disabilities, Al-Huwailah stressed the State of Kuwait’s commitment to providing comprehensive and exceptional services that enhance their rights and support their full integration into society. She emphasized that Kuwait places special attention on individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary care and opportunities.
Al-Huwailah pointed out that Kuwait is one of the first countries to enact numerous laws aimed at enhancing the welfare of persons with disabilities and protecting their rights. These include Law No. 49 of 1996, which addresses the care of the disabled, and Law No. 8 of 2010, which focuses on the rights of persons with disabilities. She also mentioned that Kuwait is implementing the Kuwait 2035 Vision Realization Project for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
This initiative seeks to achieve social security and community integration within a supportive family environment. Additionally, Kuwait has adopted several projects and programs to raise community awareness, such as the “Prevention Project and Early Detection of Disability Program” and the “Community Integration Project” in cooperation with the Public Authority for Youth and Sports. Al-Huwailah also highlighted the adoption of the Kuwaiti Code for Accessibility and its implementation across various state agencies.
Al-Huwailah explained that the State of Kuwait provides a range of financial benefits and compensatory services for persons with disabilities. These include allowances for drivers or servants, an increase in the social allowance, and the reduction of working hours. Additionally, the government ensures the provision of housing, educational, and rehabilitation facilities.
Moreover, Al-Huwailah stated that Kuwait also seeks to provide job opportunities for persons with disabilities through coordination with the Civil Service Bureau and the Manpower Restructuring Program. She emphasized that the goal is to ensure their employment in accordance with approved laws. These efforts are part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to enhancing the welfare of individuals with disabilities and achieving their full social integration.
Regarding special programs for children and the elderly, Al-Huwailah stated that Kuwait has launched several initiatives aimed at supporting these groups. These include the “Our Youth Are Our Hope” initiative, which focuses on rehabilitating juvenile delinquents, and the “Family Gathering” program for the elderly. Additionally, mobile service teams have been provided for the elderly, along with electronic care services. Al-Huwailah also highlighted the launch of “Priority” cards and the allocation of special parking spaces for the elderly, in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior.
Al-Huwailah stressed Kuwait’s commitment to protecting the family, women, and children through comprehensive laws, including the Protection from Domestic Violence Law No. 16 of 2020 and the Child Rights Law No. 21 of 2015. These laws are designed to enhance social security and stability.
Al-Huwailah pointed out that the Supreme Council for Family Affairs serves as a pioneering model in the country for protecting the family, women, and children. The council works to enable these groups to face challenges by developing services and enhancing cooperation with relevant government agencies and civil society institutions. This collaborative effort aims to create a safe and stable society.
Source: Al Jarida
