Kuwait’s progress in human rights sets international benchmark

• In her opening speech at the fifth round of the informal EU-Kuwait human rights dialogue, Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Duaij Al-Sabah praised the EU’s continued leadership, highlighting its effective policies and initiatives.

Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Duaij Al-Sabah, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Human Rights Affairs, emphasized that Kuwait has made significant strides in promoting and protecting human rights in accordance with international standards, according to Al Rai newspaper.

In her opening speech at the fifth round of the informal dialogue with the European Union (EU) on human rights, where the strengthening of joint cooperation between the two sides was discussed, Sheikha Jawaher Al-Sabah highlighted the European Union’s continued leadership in this field, providing valuable examples of effective policies and initiatives.

She emphasized that this dialogue marks a milestone, confirming the importance of a joint commitment to enhancing fruitful cooperation in the field of human rights, and reflects the mutual respect and shared values that underpin the strong partnership between Kuwait and the EU.

Sheikha Jawaher Al-Sabah also noted that hosting this important dialogue in Kuwait reflects the country’s openness to cooperation, the exchange of views, and active participation in promoting universal human rights principles.

She explained that Kuwait has taken significant steps towards empowering women and promoting gender equality. In 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs established a national committee to implement Security Council Resolution No. 1325 on women, peace, and security, which works to prepare national reports, develop strategic policies, and cooperate with international organizations to promote women’s empowerment and gender equality in line with the fifth goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.

She pointed out that the leaders of the GCC countries, through the Kuwait Declaration, affirmed their commitment to promoting women’s participation in all sectors, reflecting the region’s focus on creating inclusive opportunities for women and youth. These initiatives highlight Kuwait’s commitment to making gender equality and women’s empowerment fundamental pillars within the framework of human rights.

The dialogue also covers comprehensive developments in human rights, addressing selected topics such as the rights of workers, women, and children, freedom of expression and assembly, and the rule of law in both Kuwait and the EU.

The dialogue included an exchange of views on cooperation in human rights forums, bodies, and mechanisms, as well as the universal periodic review of international treaties and special procedures.

The Kuwaiti side was headed by Ambassador SheikhaJawaher Ibrahim Duaij Al-Sabah, while the European side was led by Anna Maria Panajutakopolo, Head of the Arabian Peninsula and Iraq Division of the European External Action Department of the European Union.