Kuwait

Kuwaiti authorities continue to use provisions in the constitution, the national security law, and the country’s cybercrime law to restrict free speech and prosecute dissidents, particularly focusing on comments made on social media. Kuwait is falling behind on reforming its kafala (sponsorship) system, which leaves migrant workers vulnerable to abuse and forced labor. The Bidun, a community of stateless people who claim Kuwaiti nationality, remain in legal limbo while the government resorts to coercion and penalizes peaceful community activism.

Refugees and Migrants

June 15, 2025
Commentary
Kuwait’s Exit Permit Requirement Puts Migrant Workers at Risk

Michael Page

Deputy Director, Middle East and North Africa Division
Environment and Health

June 1, 2025
News Release
Gulf States: Protect Workers from Extreme Heat
Environment and Human Rights

December 18, 2023
News Release
Gulf States Treat Migrant Workforce as Disposable

Reports

More reports

July 18, 2023 News Release

Middle East and North Africa: End Curbs on Women’s Mobility

Male Guardianship Rules Hamper Travel, Other Movement
January 15, 2012 Report

“They Hunt Us Down for Fun”

Discrimination and Police Violence Against Transgender Women in Kuwait
June 13, 2011 Report

Prisoners of the Past

Kuwaiti Bidun and the Burden of Statelessness
October 6, 2010 Report

Walls at Every Turn

Abuse of Migrant Domestic Workers through Kuwait’s Sponsorship System