New York: Kuwaiti Minister of Social Affairs, Family Affairs and Childhood Amthal Al-Huwailah emphasized the country's commitment to advancing services and programs for disabled individuals at both national and international levels during a speech at the 18th UN Conference of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18). The conference took place at the UN headquarters from June 9 to 12.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Al-Huwailah highlighted Kuwait's progress in promoting the rights of disabled individuals, noting the nation's participation in the Amman-Berlin Declaration from the Third Global Disability Summit. She mentioned the inclusion of disabled persons in entrepreneurship programs, benefiting 235 employees, and the implementation of inclusive employment policies across public and private sectors, supported by legislation to ensure suitable job placements.
The minister elaborated on efforts to adapt workplaces by enforcing building code laws across state facilities. She also referenced national projects for disabled persons, including the establishment of a high-level permanent national committee to oversee the Convention's implementation.
Al-Huwailah mentioned a permanent national committee responsible for preparing reports and following up on human rights recommendations, comprising representatives from relevant ministries and state agencies, in collaboration with civil society organizations. She discussed the updating and publication of the Kuwait Disability Guide 2025, developed with various stakeholders to create a comprehensive national reference incorporating international best practices.
Reaffirming Kuwait's dedication to participating in the annual conference, she highlighted the international focus on the rights of disabled persons, ensuring their involvement in different life aspects and promoting social development policies through innovative financing and artificial intelligence (AI).
The minister concluded with Kuwait's aim to foster an inclusive environment for disabled individuals by establishing equal opportunity principles, adopting policies for social, health, and educational integration, and creating employment opportunities.