قانون المعاقين الجديد بالكويت 2026 … تقاعد المعاق نفسه في الكويت
The State of Kuwait continuously strives to enhance the rights and welfare of its citizens, particularly those with disabilities. Recent amendments to the Kuwaiti Disability Law 2026 – approved by the National Assembly in September of that year – represent a significant step forward in this commitment. These revisions aim to modernize the 2010 law, ensuring it effectively addresses the evolving needs of individuals with disabilities and promotes their full inclusion in society. This article will delve into the key changes made to the law, providing a comprehensive overview of the updated provisions.
قانون المعاقين الجديد بالكويت 2026: An Overview of the Amendments
The original Kuwaiti law for the rights of persons with disabilities, enacted in 2010 (and published in the Official Gazette on February 28, 2010), comprised 72 articles designed to regulate and protect the rights of individuals – both male and female – facing permanent or partial impairments that affect their physical, mental, or sensory abilities. These impairments should hinder their ability to secure a livelihood, access education, or participate fully in community life. The 2026 amendments build upon this foundation, addressing gaps and incorporating best practices to better serve this vital segment of the population. The updates reflect a dedication to providing comprehensive support and fostering a more accessible and equitable Kuwait.
Amendments to Article 2: Scope of Application
A crucial modification concerns the scope of the law. Article 2 now explicitly states that the provisions of the Kuwaiti Disability Law 2026 apply not only to Kuwaiti citizens with disabilities but also to the children of Kuwaiti women married to non-Kuwaitis. This extension of rights encompasses access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities as outlined in the law. Furthermore, the Public Authority for Disability Affairs (PADA) is now authorized to extend certain provisions to non-Kuwaiti individuals with disabilities, subject to the approval of the Supreme Council and based on clearly defined conditions and regulations. This demonstrates a broadening of inclusivity within the legal framework.
Enhancing Support Services: Amendments to Article 7
The Kuwaiti government’s commitment to providing comprehensive support is reinforced through amendments to Article 7. The revised article mandates the provision of guidance, preventative, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services at all healthcare facilities across the country, tailored to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities. Importantly, the government is also tasked with minimizing the causes of disability during pregnancy, before, and after childbirth, and ensuring access to necessary medical treatment abroad when required. This proactive approach aims to reduce the incidence of disability and improve the quality of life for those already affected.
Improving Educational Inclusion: Amendments to Article 9
Recognizing the importance of education, significant changes were made to Article 9. Government agencies are now obligated to provide specialized training and resources to teachers in public schools to effectively identify and support students with learning difficulties. PADA will cover the costs of specialized assessments for these students. The amendments also require the establishment of specialized centers for these assessments or the accreditation of existing private sector centers to provide them. Additionally, the government is committed to sponsoring the necessary number of individuals for specialized training abroad in various fields of disability, particularly those with rare specializations. This focus on teacher training and accessible assessment is vital for inclusive education.
Promoting Integration Through Education: Amendments to Article 10
Article 10 has been revised to emphasize the government’s role in facilitating the integration of individuals with disabilities, including those with learning difficulties, into mainstream education at all levels. This involves adapting educational curricula and providing appropriate support to enable them to participate fully in society and the workforce. The government is also tasked with supporting gifted individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the opportunity to reach their full potential. This highlights a commitment to not just inclusion, but also to nurturing talent within the disability community.
Encouraging Participation: Amendments to Article 18
To foster greater social inclusion, Article 18 was amended to require all official entities in Kuwait – particularly those involved in youth and sports – to establish specialized sports, cultural, and recreational clubs and centers for individuals with disabilities, adhering to international standards. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for participation and engagement, promoting a sense of belonging and community. This is a key element in breaking down barriers and challenging societal perceptions.
Caregiver Support: Amendments to Article 25
The amendments to Article 25 address the crucial aspect of caregiving. Individuals with full legal capacity can now choose their caregiver from among their spouse, parents, or relatives up to the third degree. For individuals lacking legal capacity, the responsibility falls to their parents, spouse, or legal guardian, with any disputes regarding caregiving being resolved through the courts. This provides greater autonomy and control over personal care arrangements.
Work-Life Balance: Amendments to Article 40
A particularly impactful change is found in Article 40. Employees with disabilities, or those caring for a family member with a mild, moderate, or severe disability, are now entitled to a reduction of two hours in their daily working hours with full pay. Specific conditions and regulations governing this benefit will be issued by PADA. This provision acknowledges the challenges faced by working caregivers and promotes a better work-life balance. This is a significant benefit for both employees and their families.
Disability Identification and Retirement Benefits
Article 46 now mandates a clear and scientifically sound process for diagnosing disabilities, with all criteria publicly available on PADA’s website. Furthermore, Article 41 outlines that individuals with disabilities are eligible for retirement benefits after 15 years of service for males and 10 years for females, without a specific age requirement. The retirement benefit will equal their monthly salary, capped at 2,750 Kuwaiti Dinars.
Conclusion: A More Inclusive Future
The Kuwaiti Disability Law 2026 amendments represent a substantial advancement in the protection and promotion of the rights of individuals with disabilities in Kuwait. By expanding the scope of the law, enhancing support services, improving educational inclusion, and addressing caregiver needs, the government is demonstrating a strong commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. These changes are not merely legal updates; they are a reflection of evolving societal values and a dedication to ensuring that all Kuwaiti citizens have the opportunity to live fulfilling and productive lives. For more information and to access the full text of the law, please visit the Public Authority for Disability Affairs website.
