KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah, approved on Thursday a set of programs aimed at qualifying workers in family protection centers to develop their abilities to deal with cases of domestic violence in accordance with the approved psychological and social standards. In the presence of representatives of the Ministries of Interior, Justice, Health and Social Affairs, in addition to representatives of civil society institutions, Minister Al-Huwailah stressed the importance of developing policies and strategies that enhance family stability in society and combat violence, especially against women and children.

She stressed the need for concerted efforts of government agencies and civil society institutions to address the phenomenon of domestic violence and overcome all difficulties facing the implementation of protection programs. It is noteworthy that the National Committee for the Protection from Domestic Violence was formed based on Law (No. 16 of 2020) and its main work aims to protect the family from all forms of domestic violence and enhance family cohesion in Kuwaiti society.

More than 779 new cases related to domestic violence were registered in 2023, based on statistics from the public prosecution reported by local media. These numbers suggest a case of domestic violence is recorded in the country every 12 hours. A legal source told local media in December 2023 that having a law against domestic violence in Kuwait is a good thing, but it does not prevent it from occurring, especially since regulations pertaining to the law were not issued until more than two years later. According to the source, the phenomenon requires a detailed study and the development of recommendations to tackle the issue beyond the law.

In other news, Minister Al-Huwailah reiterated the ministry focuses on digitalizing all its services as per the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Speaking to reporters after the inauguration of Jaber Al-Ali Cooperative Society’s wedding hall, the minister said that the ministry strives to facilitate and provide the best services for citizenry. She pointed out that 68 wedding halls and society centers would be ready for online booking soon. — Agencies