35th Universal Periodic Review: UK statement on Kuwait

The United Kingdom recognises Kuwait’s human rights progress and improvements to domestic worker conditions, but remains concerned by continued use of the kafala sponsorship system.

We welcome Kuwait’s progress in improving rights for stateless persons, but are concerned that access to essential services is often restricted. We urge Kuwait to naturalise stateless persons eligible for Kuwaiti nationality, and regularise the status of the remainder.

We recommend that Kuwait:

1. Ensure all employers are aware of their obligations under Kuwaiti Law concerning domestic workers, including illegality of passport confiscation and debt bondage.

2. Adopt an open, merit-based process when selecting national candidates for UN Treaty Body elections.

3. Protect freedom of expression for all, including online, by repealing legislation that does not comply with article 19 of the ICCPR.