Though Present… Domestic Violence in Kuwait Remains Below Global Levels

Domestic and child abuse cases are no longer just passing figures in official reports, but alarming indicators of a social challenge that demands firm institutional response. With 340 reports filed in the last quarter of this year, the urgent need to strengthen protection systems has become evident, ensuring that the Kuwaiti family remains a safe haven rather than a place of danger.

Reports Reveal the Scale of the Challenge

According to recent statistics from the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, the cases included 143 reports of domestic violence, 197 cases of child abuse—mostly at the hands of relatives— and 11 shelter cases handled under approved procedures.

While these numbers reflect growing awareness and willingness to report, they also highlight the depth of the problem and the need to intensify preventive efforts.

Comprehensive Government Response

In a move underscoring the state’s commitment to this sensitive issue, Minister of Social Affairs and Family & Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila affirmed that domestic and child abuse are national priorities affecting the security and stability of society. She stressed that government institutions operate within an integrated framework focused on prevention, early intervention, and providing protection and care for victims.

She explained that efforts include developing legislation, strengthening shelter services, expanding psychological and social support, and enhancing coordination among relevant agencies to safeguard families and uphold children’s rights to the highest standards.

New Regulations for Protection Centers

The minister revealed the introduction of internal regulations to organize work at domestic violence protection centers, aimed at improving efficiency and service quality while respecting Kuwaiti social values.

The regulations cover mechanisms for receiving cases, assessing needs, and providing appropriate support—whether temporary shelter, protection orders, or psychological, social, and legal counseling.

Victim Support Fund: A Long-Awaited Step

In a pivotal development, Al-Huwaila announced the formation of a board of directors for the Victim Support Fund for Domestic Violence, resuming its operations in line with Law No. 16 of 2020 after years of delay.

She noted that the board has begun setting clear mechanisms for receiving donations and allocating funds, with coordination underway with charitable organizations to direct part of their contributions toward supporting citizens inside Kuwait.

Parallel Psychological and Rehabilitation Support

As part of the integrated protection system, the Guidance and Rehabilitation Department conducted 56 counseling sessions and provided 54 phone consultations in psychological and specialized fields, aiming at early intervention and strengthening family stability.

Partnerships and Community Awareness

The minister also pointed to the Council’s plans to establish partnerships with civil society organizations and government bodies to build a national strategy for family awareness. This includes legal consultations, training programs, and capacity-building for professionals in the field of social protection.

A Shared National Responsibility

The statistics on domestic violence in Kuwait reveal a reality that calls for vigilance, while also reflecting serious governmental efforts to rebuild the protection system on stronger legislative and organizational foundations. Between the numbers and the response, the key message remains: protecting the family is not a choice—it is a shared national responsibility.

Regional Context: The Gulf and Arab World

While Kuwait’s figures highlight a pressing challenge, similar patterns are evident across the Gulf region and the wider Arab world. In Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, official hotlines and shelter centers have reported rising cases of domestic and child abuse, reflecting both increased awareness and persistent social pressures. Arab Barometer surveys further show that many citizens across the region believe violence against women and children has grown in recent years, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement of protective laws and more effective community outreach.

Global Perspective

Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that nearly one in three women—over 736 million worldwide—have experienced domestic violence at least once in their lives. This places Kuwait’s numbers within a broader international crisis that transcends borders and cultures. While many countries have advanced legal frameworks and support systems, progress remains uneven, and the gap between legislation and implementation continues to challenge societies everywhere. Kuwait’s recent initiatives, such as the Victim Support Fund and new protection center regulations, align with global best practices, signaling a serious commitment to confronting the issue at both national and international levels.

Sources:

1.     Supreme Council for Family Affairs (Kuwait), Al-Qabas

2.     National Family Safety Program (Saudi Arabia);

3.     Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (UAE)

4.     Arab Barometer surveys (2023–2025)

5.     World Health Organization (WHO) reports (2021, updated 2023)