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New decree sets rules for DNA and biometric testing in citizenship cases

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KUWAIT: Kuwait’s ministry of interior issued ministerial decree no. 678/2025 outlining how modern scientific methods — including DNA and biometric testing — may be used to determine whether an individual qualifies for Kuwaiti citizenship or is subject to revocation of it. Published in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Youm, the decree defines key terms, identifies who may be subject to testing and establishes procedures and legal safeguards for using biological samples in citizenship-related cases.

The decision formalizes rules around testing that had previously been applied on a case-by-case basis and expands the role of forensic science in verifying lineage or identity. The decree, which takes effect from the date of its publication, comes amidst a widespread government campaign that has revoked the citizenship of more than 35,000 people since its launch in August 2024. Here’s what the new decree means.

What is the purpose of the decree?

The decree aims to provide a legal and procedural framework for using scientific evidence in cases involving the granting, revoking, withdrawal or loss of Kuwaiti nationality. It codifies the types of scientific tests that can be used — such as DNA analysis and biometric identification — and sets standards for how these tests should be conducted, by whom and under what conditions.

Who can be tested under the decree?

The decree applies to individuals whose citizenship status is under review. These individuals, referred to as “subjects” in the text, may be asked to undergo testing to confirm their entitlement to Kuwaiti nationality or to assess whether their nationality should be withdrawn or revoked.

What kinds of scientific methods are permitted?

The decree authorizes the use of several scientific methods, including genetic fingerprinting (DNA testing), biometric data collection (such as fingerprint, iris and facial scans) and any other future technologies approved by the ministry of interior. DNA tests are used to establish familial relationships and confirm identity based on inherited genetic traits, while biometric tools compare unique physical features to verify a person’s identity.

Who conducts the testing?

The decree assigns responsibility for carrying out tests to specialized government-approved centers, including the department of criminal evidence within the ministry of interior. These centers must be equipped with certified medical and technical equipment, and all testing must be performed by qualified professionals. Analysts must have no familial or personal connection to the individuals under investigation and must not have any criminal convictions that might affect their integrity.

How is data stored and protected?

All biometric and genetic data collected under the decree is stored in secure databases managed by the ministry of interior. The decree mandates detailed recordkeeping and requires that all steps — from sample collection to the issuance of test results — be documented. These records must be available for review upon request by the relevant authorities. Confidentiality is emphasized throughout the decree, with strict provisions in place to ensure that individuals’ genetic information is handled discreetly and only accessed for official purposes.

What is the procedure for DNA testing?

To begin the DNA testing process, officials must obtain approval from the general department of nationality and travel documents, or another authority designated by the minister of interior. Biological samples — such as blood, saliva or hair — are collected from the individual, and the analysis is carried out in authorized laboratories. Eligible samples include blood, semen, hair, bone, saliva, urine, amniotic fluid, fertilized egg cells post-division and body cells.

The labs extract and examine DNA to determine whether the individual’s genetic profile matches that of family members or records previously stored. After completing the analysis, a sealed report is submitted to the General Department of Criminal Evidence, which then forwards its final recommendation to the nationality department.

Can people request retesting?

Yes, the decree allows for retesting if requested by the subject of the investigation or by the testing center, provided that the ministry of interior grants approval. The retest must follow the same procedures outlined in the original testing process.

How are the results used?

Once the analysis is complete, the general department of nationality and travel documents prepares a legal opinion based on the test findings. This opinion assesses whether the individual qualifies for Kuwaiti citizenship or not. The final decision is referred to the supreme committee to investigate Kuwaiti citizenship, which determines the appropriate action — including the potential granting or revocation of citizenship.

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Kuwait Fund chief: ACG committed to effective development strategies

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 WASHINGTON: Acting Director General of Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development Waleed Al-Bahar affirmed the Arab Coordination Group’s (ACG) commitment to adopting effective strategies to meet future development requirements and global economic transformations.

Speaking to KUNA during ACG’s 50th anniversary celebration in Washington D.C. late Wednesday, attended by Acting Finance Minister Dr. Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem, Al-Bahar congratulated Kuwait Fund for its role as a founding member in 1975. He emphasized the group’s vital contribution to stimulating economic growth and social progress in developing nations across the globe.

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Al-Bahar noted that the Fund continuously strives to enhance its collective development efforts in cooperation with ACG institutions to promote sustainable regional and international economic growth.Since its inception, ACG has financed more than 13,000 development projects in over 160 countries, supporting key sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

He stressed the group’s dedication to aligning with the next phase of development by adopting adaptive strategies to address the fast-changing global economic landscape. Al-Bahar expressed pride in Kuwait Fund’s partnerships within the ACG framework, contributing to financing initiatives that drive prosperity and progress in developing countries.

The golden jubilee celebration was held under the theme “United in Cooperation and Development for a Sustainable Future,” reflecting the group’s shared vision to empower nations and achieve lasting positive impact. The event gathered leaders from both public and private sectors, investors, and prominent figures from political and economic circles, underscoring the group’s enduring influence in advancing global development.The celebration served as a milestone in the Arab Coordination Group’s journey, reaffirming its role as a strategic partner in fostering collective action and sustainable growth across the developing world. — AFP

 

 

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Kuwait reaffirms commitment to eradicating poverty, urges stronger global action

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NEW YORK: The State of Kuwait reiterated its commitment to constructive cooperation with global partners to build a world free from poverty and hunger. This came in a statement delivered by Diplomatic Attache Rashid Farhan on Wednesday before the UN General Assembly’s second committee under the agenda items on poverty eradication, agricultural development, food security, and nutrition.Farhan warned that nearly 800 million people still live in extreme poverty, with children and youth making up 60 percent of the most affected populations, according to UN reports.

He noted that about 350 million people in Africa alone face dangerous levels of food insecurity. He also highlighted the severe food crisis caused by genocidal policies targeting Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Farhan stressed the need to intensify international efforts to ensure unhindered delivery of humanitarian and food aid and to uphold civilian protection in accordance with international humanitarian law.He acknowledged a slight global improvement in food security, with hunger rates dropping to 8.2 percent last year, though regional disparities remain stark, especially in the Middle East, Africa, and Western Asia.

Farhan underscored the interconnectedness of peace, security, and food. He recalled Kuwait’s sponsorship of UN Security Council Resolution 2417 (2018), which linked armed conflict with hunger and condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare. He also noted Kuwait’s membership in the Friends of Action on Conflict and Hunger group and its recent accession to the Global Alliance to Protect Water in Armed Conflicts last June.

Farhan highlighted Kuwait Vision 2035 as a reflection of the country’s commitment to inclusive development, focusing on human capital, infrastructure, and a knowledge-based economy.He pointed to the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition’s second strategy (2024-2026), which aims to enhance food safety and community nutrition.Farhan concluded by calling for greater data transparency, early warning mechanisms, investment in digital infrastructure, innovation, and support for small-scale producers, women, and youth to build inclusive, efficient, and sustainable food systems. — KUNA

 

 

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Kuwait participates in MENAP neeting with IMF managing director

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WASHINGTON:  Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Acting Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic and Investment Affairs Dr. Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem participated late Wednesday in the meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan (MENAP).

The meeting, held as part of Kuwait’s participation of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund in Washington, reviewed the latest regional and international economic developments as well as exchanged views on key global issues, including current economic challenges.

The meeting also touched on policies focused on strengthening financial stability, seizing growth opportunities and boosting IMF engagement with member states amid uncertainty and regional tensions.On her part, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said the inflation in most regional economies had eased due to lower food and energy prices as well as relatively tight monetary policies.

She took note that the IMF raised its growth forecast for the region to 3.2 percent in 2025, up from 2.6 percent in May, expecting it to reach 3.7 percent in 2027, supported by strong domestic demand and ongoing reforms. She stressed key priorities, including rebuilding fiscal and external buffers, strengthening fiscal frameworks and policies, accelerating structural reforms, and deepening IMF partnerships across the MENAP region.

Meanwhile, member states called for the full membership of the State of Palestine in the IMF during a meeting held on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank and IMF Boards of Governors from October 13 to 18. — KUNA

 

 

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