Kuwait passes sweeping anti-terrorism law with tough penalties, preventive measures

2026-03-16 - 09:06

Kuwait has issued Decree Law No. 47 of 2026 on Combating Terrorism Crimes, published in a supplement to Kuwait Alyawm. The new law establishes a national legal framework that seeks to balance the requirements of security protection with principles of criminal legitimacy, emphasizing precision in terminology, rigor in structure, and fairness in application. The legislation sets out clear definitions for terrorist acts, individuals, and organizations, aligning Kuwait’s laws with international standards, including the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism. It aims to close legislative gaps and provide a comprehensive mechanism for addressing terrorism at home and abroad. Significantly, the law extends to terrorist crimes committed outside Kuwait if they target the country’s interests, citizens, embassies, aircraft, or ships. Crimes classified as terrorist acts carry stringent penalties, including life imprisonment or execution, with minimum sentences that cannot be reduced. Courts are also empowered to implement preventive measures against individuals posing a terrorist threat, including surveillance, rehabilitation programs, restricted communication, or prohibiting presence in specific locations, with criminal consequences for violations. The law introduces new offenses that protect foreign embassies and organizations in Kuwait, criminalizing unauthorized entry into embassies or consulates with intent to commit terrorist acts and penalizing calls to join or support terrorist groups. To coordinate national counterterrorism efforts, a ministerial committee chaired by the Minister of Interior will monitor developments, propose policies, and strengthen Kuwait’s overall framework for combating terrorism. Companies, institutions, and public associations involved in or facilitating terrorist acts are subject to strict penalties, including fines and suspension of operations. The law also introduces a controlled delivery system to monitor the import of devices or tools that could be used in terrorist activities, enabling authorities to trace suspects and identify perpetrators. In recognition of the long-term and severe nature of terrorism crimes, the law exempts such offenses from the statute of limitations, ensuring that prosecution can occur regardless of the passage of time. Decree Law No. 47 reflects Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting its citizens, and fulfilling international obligations in the global fight against terrorism.