TOPIC:

Political system and foreign policy of Kuwait

ASSIGNMENT #01
Submitted to:
Mam Asia
Submitted by:
Nimra Qamar..... 928-FSS|BSIR|F20
Shanza Ejaz (962-FSS/BSIR/F20)
Course:
Comparative politics of the Muslim World
Date: 14-01-2024
DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & POLTICAL
SCIENCE
POLITICAL SYSTEM OF KUWAIT:
THE CONSTITUTION
Kuwait's political system is a monarchy, with a constitutional emirate and parliamentary
system of government. It gained independence from the UK in 1961 and approved its
constitution in 1962, which combines aspects of both presidential and parliamentary systems.
The constitution is based on democracy principles, focusing on nation sovereignty, citizen
freedom, and equality. Kuwait's Constitution was drafted by an elected 20-member
Constituent Assembly and 11 ministers - who joined the Assembly later. The draft was
approved by the late Amir, Sheikh Abdallah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and came into force on
January 29, 1963, when the first National Assembly convened. The Kuwaiti Constitution,
comprising 183 articles is an exhaustive document. It is divided into five parts:

 The state and the system of government

 Fundamental constituents of the Kuwaiti society
 Public rights and duties
 Powers
 General and transitional provisions

Executive Branch:

The Emir Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah is the chief of state since 2006, with the Crown
Prince Nawaf-al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah. The Prime Minister is Jabir Al-Mubarak al-
Hamad al-Sabah, with Ahmad al-Hamud al-Jabir al-Sabah as the first Deputy Prime Minister.
The Emir appoints the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Ministers, and a Cabinet/Council of
Ministers is appointed by the Prime Minister and approved by the Emir. The most recent
cabinet was formed in February 2012.

Legislative Branch:
Kuwait's National Assembly has 66 seats, of which 50 are elected by popular vote and 16
cabinet ministers are appointed by the Prime Minster). Elected members serve four years.
(The most recent elections were in February 2012.)

Judicial Branch:
Kuwait has a civil law system, with Sharia law significantly used for personal matters. The
judiciary is independent. In each of the country's six governorates there is a summary court.
There is also a court of appeals, a Cassation Court, and a Constitutional Court.

Other:
There are a number of political groups that act as de facto parties and several legislative
voting blocs in the National Assembly (i.e., tribal groups, merchants, Shi'ite activists, secular
liberals, etc.), but formation of political parties is in practice illegal. .Adult males and females
(since 2005) aged 21+ are allowed to vote; naturalized citizens can vote only after they have
been citizens for at least 20 years. Males in the military or who are members of the police are
not allowed to vote.
AMIR OF KUWAIT
H.H. SHEIKH Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

The individual was proclaimed as Amir of the State of Kuwait on January 29, 2006, and
served as Prime Minister until April 20, 1991. He held various positions, including First
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Information, and Acting
Minister of Information. He was appointed Foreign Minister in 1963 and served as Minister
of Guidance and Information in 1962. He also served as Head of the Department of Press and
Publications in 1955 and was a member of the Organizational Body of the Higher Council
and the Building and Construction Council. Born in Kuwait on June 6, 1929, he completed
his studies with private tutors and attended Kuwait schools.

 The constitution of Kuwait, ratified in 1962, has components of a presidential and a

parliamentary type of government.
 The Emir serves as the head of State and exercises the authority to nominate the PM.
 Both the Emir and the judicially independent Constitutional Court have the power to
dissolve the parliament.
 Kuwait’s parliament (per article 3 of the Constitution) has the constitutional right to
approve and disapprove of a nomination made by the Emir; as such, the parliament
exercises the authority to legally remove an Emir from his position.
 In 2006, for instance, the parliament successfully removed the Emir from his position
because of his illness.
 While the Constitution clearly supports political organizations, they are still forbidden
because there no law has been passed to outline and legalize them.
 MPs often serve as Independents or as members of some loose affiliation or group on
the basis of beliefs, sect, class, or clan.
 Citizens age twenty-one and older, if they are not currently serving in the military nor
have been legally found guilty of a crime, are eligible to vote.
 Parliamentary candidates must also be eligible to vote; they have to be at least thirty
years old.
THE CABINET
Kuwait's executive power is held by the Cabinet, or Council of Ministers, led by the Prime
Minister, traditionally held by the Crown Prince. The Prime Minister is appointed through an
Amiri Decree, and the ministers are appointed by the Amir on the Prime Minister's
recommendation. The number of ministers in a Cabinet must not exceed one-third the
strength of the National Assembly, excluding the Head of the National Guard, Amiri Diwan
Affairs Minister, Amir’s Advisor, and Audit Bureau Chairman. The Cabinet controls state
institutions, is responsible for government policy, and holds portfolios. The Prime Minister
and ministers are accountable to the Amir and the National Assembly. The Constitution
grants the Cabinet authority to declare defensive war, proclaim martial law, promulgate law
decrees, grant pardons, and issue executive and administrative orders.
 KUWAIT'S FOREIGN POLICY
Kuwait's foreign policy objectives have evolved since the country's independence in 1961,
reflecting its unique geopolitical position, economic resources, and regional influence.
Kuwait's key foreign policy priorities, including maintaining regional stability, diversifying
economic partnerships, and strengthening diplomatic ties. The analysis explores Kuwait's
approach to various international issues and highlights the country's efforts to navigate
complex regional dynamics while advancing its national interests

OBJECTIVES IF KUWAIT FOREIGN POLICY

The objectives of Kuwait's foreign policy are ¹:

 Respect for the sovereignty of nations

 No interference in the internal affairs of other nations
 Good neighborly relations
 International legitimacy and the rule of international law
 International peace and security
 Call for peaceful solutions to international disputes through dialogue
 Achieving the goals and principles of the United Nations Charter
 Protect the interest of the State in matters of defense, security, and politics
 Protect the interest of the Arab Gulf, Arab Nation, and Islamic Nation

MAINTAINING REGIONAL STABILITY

As a small Gulf state situated in a volatile region, Kuwait has consistently prioritized the
maintenance of regional stability as a central tenet of its foreign policy. This is particularly
evident in Kuwait's approach to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), where it has played a
crucial role in mediating disputes and fostering cooperation among member states. Kuwait
has also been an active participant in regional dialogue, using its diplomatic channels to
address pressing security concerns and promote conflict resolution.

Furthermore, Kuwait has actively contributed to peacekeeping efforts in the region, including
its involvement in the Gulf War in 1991 and its support for United Nations missions. This
commitment to regional stability has earned Kuwait the respect of its neighbors and the
international community, positioning it as a trusted mediator and a voice of reason in the
Middle East.

DIVERSIFYING ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPS

Kuwait's foreign policy has also focused on diversifying its economic partnerships,
particularly in response to the volatility of global oil markets. While the energy sector
remains a critical component of Kuwait's economy, the country has made concerted efforts to
expand its trade and investment ties with a broader range of international partners.
Asia

Kuwait has strengthened its economic cooperation with countries in Asia, such as China,
Japan, and South Korea, tapping into the region's dynamic markets and technological
advancements. These partnerships have led to increased trade, investment, and joint ventures,
contributing to Kuwait's economic diversification efforts.

Europe

Kuwait has also cultivated closer economic ties with European nations, particularly the
United Kingdom, Germany, and France. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of
technology, expertise, and investment, enabling Kuwait to access advanced industries and
expand its economic reach beyond the traditional energy sector.

Africa

In recent years, Kuwait has also turned its attention to the African continent, recognizing the
region's vast economic potential. Through initiatives such as the Kuwait Fund for Arab
Economic Development, the country has provided financial assistance and technical support
for infrastructure projects, fostering economic cooperation and strengthening diplomatic ties
with African nations.

STRENGTHENING DIPLOMATIC TIES

Kuwait's foreign policy has also emphasized the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties
with a diverse range of countries and international organizations. This approach has enabled
Kuwait to cultivate strategic partnerships, enhance its global influence, and address a wide
array of regional and global issues.

United Nations

Kuwait has been an active member of the United Nations, contributing to various
peacekeeping missions, development initiatives, and human rights efforts. The country's
engagement with the UN has allowed it to amplify its voice on the global stage and advocate
for its national interests within the international community.

Arab League

As a founding member of the Arab League, Kuwait has actively participated in regional
efforts to promote political, economic, and cultural cooperation among Arab states. Kuwait's
leadership within the Arab League has enabled it to shape the regional agenda and address
shared challenges facing the Arab world.

International Partnerships

Kuwait has cultivated strong diplomatic ties with a diverse range of countries, including the
United States, Russia, China, and European nations. These partnerships have allowed Kuwait
to diversify its international alliances, access new markets, and collaborate on global issues
such as energy, security, and climate change.
STRENGTHENING DIPLOMATIC TIES

Kuwait's foreign policy has also emphasized the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties
with a diverse range of countries and international organizations. This approach has enabled
Kuwait to cultivate strategic partnerships, enhance its global influence, and address a wide
array of regional and global issues.

United Nations

Kuwait has been an active member of the United Nations, contributing to various
peacekeeping missions, development initiatives, and human rights efforts. The country's
engagement with the UN has allowed it to amplify its voice on the global stage and advocate
for its national interests within the international community.

Arab League

As a founding member of the Arab League, Kuwait has actively participated in regional
efforts to promote political, economic, and cultural cooperation among Arab states. Kuwait's
leadership within the Arab League has enabled it to shape the regional agenda and address
shared challenges facing the Arab world.

International Partnerships

Kuwait has cultivated strong diplomatic ties with a diverse range of countries, including the
United States, Russia, China, and European nations. These partnerships have allowed Kuwait
to diversify its international alliances, access new markets, and collaborate on global issues
such as energy, security, and climate change.

ADDRESSING GLOBAL CHALLENGES

Kuwait's foreign policy has also emphasized the importance of addressing global challenges,
such as climate change, sustainable development, and international terrorism. The country
has actively participated in international efforts to tackle these issues, recognizing their
impact on regional and global stability.

Climate Change

Kuwait has been an active participant in international climate change negotiations,

contributing to the implementation of the Paris Agreement and supporting initiatives aimed at
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy. The country has also
implemented domestic policies to address environmental concerns and foster sustainable
development.

Sustainable Development

Kuwait has aligned its foreign policy with the United Nations' Sustainable Development
Goals, focusing on areas such as poverty alleviation, quality education, and gender equality.
The country has provided financial and technical assistance to developing nations, supporting
projects that promote economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DIPLOMACY

Kuwait's foreign policy has also emphasized the importance of humanitarian assistance and
diplomacy, particularly in response to regional and global crises. The country has consistently
demonstrated its commitment to providing aid and support to communities affected by
natural disasters, conflicts, and humanitarian emergencies.

 Humanitarian Relief
 Diplomatic Mediation
 Multilateral Cooperation

CONCLUSION: KUWAIT'S EVOLVING FOREIGN POLICY

Kuwait's foreign policy has evolved significantly since the country's independence, reflecting
its unique position, economic resources, and regional influence. From maintaining regional
stability to diversifying economic partnerships and addressing global challenges, Kuwait has
demonstrated a nuanced and strategic approach to its international relations.

As Kuwait navigates the complex regional dynamics of the Middle East and the rapidly
changing global landscape, its foreign policy will continue to adapt and evolve, enabling the
country to safeguard its national interests, strengthen its diplomatic ties, and contribute to the
promotion of regional and global stability.