LocationsDisability Rights at the Heart of an Inclusive Kuwait
January 7, 2025
In Kuwait, over 66,000 people live with some form of disability. While significant progress has been made, barriers to education, employment, and healthcare still limit their full participation in society. These obstacles undermine the fundamental human rights of individuals with disabilities, denying them equal opportunities for personal development, economic contribution, and social participation.
UNDP in partnership with the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development (GSSCPD) and the Public Authority for Disability Affairs (PADA), has implemented several initiatives to include and empower persons living with disabilities in Kuwait. These efforts align with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which seeks to challenge social behaviors, address institutional barriers, and create a more inclusive society. They are also guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which emphasizes the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities.
One transformative achievement is the development of the Kuwait Universal Design Code, to ensure public and private facilities in Kuwait are accessible to all. A digital accessibility framework has also been introduced to make it easier for people with disabilities to use online platforms and access digital services. In schools, an educational support model has helped students with disabilities integrate into mainstream classrooms by providing teachers with clear guidelines and practical tools.
By strengthening institutions and building capacities, significant progress has been made in the early detection, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of physical and cognitive disabilities, adhering to global best practices. Simultaneously, public campaigns such as #Qodraty, reaching over one million viewers, have played a key role in removing societal barriers, encouraging open conversations, and reshaping perceptions of persons with disabilities.
For many, these initiatives represent hope and change. Juri Mohamad Al Azimi, who lives with a disability, emphasized the importance of societal awareness: “I believe that societal awareness is crucial for creating an inclusive environment. Many people don’t understand the challenges we face because they are not in our shoes. Navigating these obstacles should not rest solely on the shoulders of people with disabilities; it is a collective responsibility for everyone to learn, understand, and support inclusivity.”
Another powerful voice is that of Abdelaziz Al Mutairi. Reflecting on his school years, he shared: “The biggest challenge I faced was the lack of awareness among people. This led me to limit myself psychologically, which felt even more restrictive than my physical disability. Now, as an active member of 'Training Gate International,' I am part of a supportive community, dedicated to changing societal perceptions that hold us back.”
His call for celebration rather than mere acceptance of differences resonates deeply: “We should celebrate our differences, not just accept them”. By collaborating with government bodies, the private sector, and civil society, UNDP is empowering individuals with disabilities to actively participate in their communities and achieve their full potential.
By enhancing digital accessibility, promoting inclusive education, raising awareness, and addressing societal perceptions, these efforts are building a foundation for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Looking ahead, UNDP remains committed to promoting inclusion and accessibility recognizing them as fundamental human rights and essential pillars of Kuwait’s Vision 2035. By continuing to build partnerships and expand efforts, UNDP is paving the way for a future where every individual, regardless of ability, can fully participate, contribute, and thrive.