New Kuwaiti law introduces safeguards, shelters, penalties for domestic violence

2026-03-15 - 07:26

Kuwait has issued Decree-Law No. 11 of 2026 on protection from domestic violence, reinforcing the country’s constitutional and social commitment to safeguarding the family as the fundamental unit of society. The legislation was introduced to strengthen legal protections for victims and address gaps identified during the implementation of Law No. 16 of 2020 on Protection from Domestic Violence. Authorities said practical experience revealed legislative shortcomings and limited procedural tools that hindered effective protection for victims. The new decree-law establishes a comprehensive legal framework designed to prevent and address domestic violence while ensuring justice, dignity and social stability. It provides a clear definition of domestic violence in its various forms, including physical, psychological, sexual and financial abuse, and identifies the categories of individuals entitled to protection. Under Decree-Law No. 11 of 2026 on Protection from Domestic Violence, the law regulates reporting and intervention procedures to ensure speed, confidentiality and effective response, while emphasizing the institutional responsibility of the state in confronting domestic violence. Key Provisions of the Law The decree introduces precise definitions of family relationships covered under the law and limits its application to cases occurring during an existing marital or family relationship, including situations where the relationship continues at the time a complaint is filed. This aims to unify legal interpretations and prevent unjustified expansion in applying the law’s provisions. Article 5 mandates the establishment of shelters for victims of domestic violence under the supervision of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs. These shelters will provide protection and support services and may seek assistance from the police when necessary. Article 6 provides for the creation of a special fund to support victims of domestic violence and their dependents, also affiliated with the Supreme Council for Family Affairs. Article 7 outlines reporting and early intervention procedures, granting the relevant department broad authority to receive reports, coordinate with security and medical authorities and take urgent protective measures for victims. Article 8 allows the responsible department to facilitate settlements in family disputes, provided such actions serve the interests of the family. Stronger Legal Safeguards Under Article 9, the law eliminates the possibility of withdrawing complaints or halting criminal proceedings in serious cases, particularly those involving sexual abuse, violence against children, or crimes committed against individuals lacking legal capacity or parents subjected to abuse by their children. Article 11 requires anyone who witnesses or becomes aware of a case of domestic violence to report it to the relevant authorities or police stations, while granting legal protection to whistleblowers. The decree also introduces a revised protection order system under Article 12, allowing authorities to impose immediate measures to ensure the safety of victims. Penalties The law introduces specific penalties for related offences. Article 18 imposes imprisonment of one week to six months, a fine between KD100 and KD1,000, or both, for coercing a victim to withdraw a complaint. Article 19 increases penalties for failing to report violence against children or individuals lacking legal capacity, with imprisonment of up to one year and a fine of up to KD200. Article 20 stipulates penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and fines up to KD500 for filing false domestic violence reports. In addition, Article 22 prohibits the publication or broadcasting of information related to domestic violence cases before, during or after judicial rulings. Only a summary of the judgment may be published without revealing the identities of those involved. Violations may result in imprisonment from one to three months and fines between 1,000 and 5,000 dinars, or either penalty. Officials say the decree-law represents a significant step in strengthening Kuwait’s legislative framework to combat domestic violence, protect victims and reinforce family and societal stability.