Kuwait Regulates Places of Worship Amid Security Concerns

Kuwait has enacted a new decree aimed at regulating the operations of places of worship and charitable organizations, with the exception of mosques affiliated with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The move seeks to prevent these institutions from becoming burdens, security risks, or tools for illicit enrichment and political exploitation, especially given their large number, exceeding one thousand.

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Much of what I previously advocated has now been realized through the issuance of a decree regulating the establishment and management of places of worship, excluding mosques affiliated with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.

A committee comprising representatives from various ministries and three experienced citizens will be formed. This committee will establish regulations, determine suitable locations, and issue necessary licenses. Each place of worship must appoint a legal representative who will pledge to use entrusted funds only for licensed purposes, refrain from unauthorized activities, and submit an annual budget.

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The decree prohibits any activities that involve insulting religions or sects, engaging in political interference, interfering in the affairs of other countries, inciting sectarian or racial tensions, promoting extremism or violence, or conducting rituals that threaten security or public order.

The decree strictly prohibits activities that insult religions or sects, interfere in politics or other countries' affairs, incite sectarian or racial tensions, promote extremism or violence, or conduct rituals that threaten security. Collecting donations and organizing events require prior permits and approval. Furthermore, these organizations are barred from communicating with foreign diplomatic or security institutions or hosting individuals from outside Kuwait without prior consent.

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Government inspectors are granted judicial authority, including the right to inspect facilities, review records, and document violations.

Government inspectors will be granted judicial authority to inspect facilities and review records. All licensed entities must comply within six months. The law imposes strict penalties, with legal representatives bearing personal and joint responsibility for any judgments against their organizations. The author expressed concern over the dangerous situation in some countries where an alarming increase in places of worship has led to social division and concentrated power.

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What prompted me to raise this concern is my fear of the dangerous situation in some countries resulting from the alarming increase in the number of places of worship and the diverse affiliations of those overseeing them.