Kuwait Showcases Its International Experience in Empowering People with Disabilities

Nada Abu Nasr The Public Authority for People with Disabilities, represented by the Acting Deputy Director General of the Medical, Psychological, and Social Services Sector, Dr. Khalifa Al-Hila, and the Technical Office Supervisor, Dr. Bahiya Al-Abd Al-Hadi, participated in an event organized by the Executive Office of the Council of Ministers of Social Affairs for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, under the theme “From Narrative to Evidence: Towards Enhancing the Preparation of Disability-Indicators-Based Reports.” The event was held at the United Nations Office in Geneva, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Dr. Khalifa Ahmed Al-Hila emphasized, during Kuwait’s statement, that Kuwait’s participation reaffirms its firm commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities and its dedication to highlighting the progress the country has achieved in building an integrated legislative and institutional framework. This framework has shifted the concept of disability from a care-based approach to a more comprehensive one grounded in rights, empowerment, inclusion, and active participation in society.

He noted that Kuwait has given advanced attention to the rights of persons with disabilities, working to consolidate these rights through national legislation, foremost among which is Law No. (8) of 2010 concerning the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This has been accompanied by the development of supporting regulations, policies, services, and programs that enhance their independence, safeguard their rights and dignity, and ensure their full participation in all areas of life.

Al-Hila clarified that the next phase requires moving further from merely showcasing efforts and initiatives to measuring their impact through clear indicators and accurate data. This approach will contribute to policy development, improve service efficiency, and enhance the quality of national disability reports, in alignment with Kuwait’s international commitments.