Kuwait’s Council of Ministers has approved a draft decree-law to abolish Article 182 of the Penal Code. This legal provision previously permitted kidnappers to escape criminal prosecution if they married their victims with guardian consent. The decision represents a significant step toward strengthening protections for vulnerable individuals in the country.
The abolished article had allowed perpetrators of kidnapping to avoid punishment through marriage, a practice widely criticized by human rights advocates. Legal experts argue the provision contradicted modern standards of justice and victim protection. The removal of this exemption ensures that kidnapping remains a serious offense regardless of subsequent marital arrangements between the perpetrator and victim.
The decree-law now awaits further procedural steps before becoming law. This reform reflects growing international pressure and domestic advocacy for stricter measures against crimes involving abduction and coercion. Officials have indicated the change aligns Kuwait with contemporary legal frameworks that prioritize individual safety and prevent exploitation.
Source: Arab Times Online (arabtimesonline.com) | April 29, 2026