Kuwait Reiterates Commitment to Rule of Law, Justice Reforms at UN Forum

Kuwait has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the rule of law, modernising its criminal justice system and enhancing international cooperation in combating crime during a key United Nations forum in Vienna.

Speaking at the 35th session of the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, which continues until next Friday, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to International Organisations in Vienna, Talal Al-Fassam, said Kuwait is pursuing a comprehensive criminal justice strategy based on the principle that security, development, human rights and the rule of law are closely interconnected pillars of sustainable societies.

Al-Fassam said Kuwait Vision 2035 places strong emphasis on improving transparency, integrity and good governance through the modernisation of government administration, enhanced institutional efficiency and stronger accountability mechanisms. He noted that the country continues to update its legislative and institutional frameworks to address emerging crimes such as cybercrime, money laundering and human trafficking, while also focusing on prevention, rehabilitation and social reintegration.

He said Kuwait has achieved significant progress in crime prevention and criminal justice reform, reflecting its commitment to protecting human dignity, strengthening legal institutions and building resilient societies capable of responding to evolving security threats.

The ambassador highlighted several legislative developments, including the introduction and modernisation of laws related to anti-corruption measures, cybercrime prevention and child protection, bringing Kuwait’s legal framework closer to international standards and best practices.

At the institutional level, he said authorities have introduced reforms aimed at improving judicial efficiency and transparency by upgrading court infrastructure, accelerating digital transformation and expanding the use of modern technologies in criminal justice services.

On efforts to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling, Al-Fassam said Kuwait has made notable advances through stronger institutional mechanisms and the implementation of the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling 2025–2028. He pointed to continued reforms in the legal framework governing these issues, including the enforcement of Law No. 91 of 2013 on combating trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants, Law No. 114 of 2024 concerning the residence of foreigners, and updated labour and domestic worker regulations.

Al-Fassam reaffirmed Kuwait’s support for international initiatives aimed at strengthening criminal justice systems, expanding multilateral cooperation and building national capacities to tackle shared global challenges and contribute to international peace and security.

He stressed that international cooperation, knowledge-sharing, capacity building and the responsible use of innovation and technology are essential to improving criminal justice policies and developing effective responses to rapidly evolving security threats.

The ambassador also reiterated Kuwait’s support for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16, which focuses on peace, justice and strong institutions. He said justice and the rule of law remain fundamental to sustainable development and societal prosperity.

Kuwait, he added, remains fully committed to the objectives of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice and will continue working with international partners to strengthen justice systems, combat crime in all its forms and uphold respect for the law at national, regional and international levels.

Al-Fassam also expressed Kuwait’s support for the United Arab Emirates as host of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice scheduled for September, saying the event would reflect the UAE’s leadership and growing role on the regional and international stage.

He concluded by commending the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for its continued efforts to support member states, strengthen international cooperation and address the rising challenges posed by organised crime, cybercrime and other transnational threats while promoting more efficient and inclusive criminal justice systems.

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.