Kuwait reaffirms commitment to human rights with sweeping legislative reforms

The State of Kuwait reaffirmed on Wednesday its commitment to continuously advancing its legislative and institutional framework in a manner that strengthens rights and freedoms and translates its international obligations into practical policies and procedures aligned with a comprehensive national development vision.

This statement was delivered by Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Nasser Al-Hain, during the high-level segment of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

He highlighted that 2025 witnessed significant legislative progress reflecting Kuwait’s ongoing reform efforts, reports Al-Rai daily.

Ambassador Al-Hain explained that recent developments included updates to legal frameworks aimed at protecting women and strengthening family rights, notably through ensuring criminal equality and raising the legal age of marriage to 18.

Reforms also focused on enhancing labor rights, promoting the full inclusion of persons with disabilities, and improving litigation mechanisms, demonstrating a gradual reform approach grounded in sustainable institutional development.

He also reaffirmed Kuwait’s aspiration to continue contributing to the Council’s work through its candidacy for membership for the 2027–2029 term, stressing the country’s commitment to supporting a balanced and effective international human rights system.

Marking the twentieth anniversary of the establishment of the Human Rights Council, Al-Hain noted that the milestone provides an opportunity to evaluate the trajectory of multilateral human rights action.

While acknowledging the Council’s role in developing standards and strengthening accountability mechanisms, he warned that credibility within the international system is undermined when selectivity and double standards prevail.

The ambassador further expressed concern over escalating violations affecting civilians and threatening regional stability.

He reiterated Kuwait’s condemnation of Israeli violations in the Palestinian territories, Lebanon, and Syria, describing them as breaches of state sovereignty and threats to regional security, while calling for full adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law.

Kuwait also voiced deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in El Fasher, Sudan, and the serious violations committed against civilians, stressing the urgent need to protect civilians and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.