Thousands of individuals under scrutiny as Kuwait rescinds citizenship for nearly 50,000 citizens
In a bold move to preserve national identity and combat citizenship fraud, Kuwait has embarked on a comprehensive review of all nationality files, with no exceptions for any individuals, including current and former members of parliament or ministers. This initiative, led by Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Sheikh Fahad Yousef Al Sabah, is being carried out by the Supreme Committee for Kuwaiti Nationality [1][2][3].
Sheikh Fahad has made it clear that “all of Kuwait is under review”, with cases involving former ministers, parliament members, or other prominent individuals being included in the scrutiny [2][3]. This zero-tolerance approach seeks to ensure the authenticity of all nationality claims across society.
The review process has led to the revocation of nearly 50,000 citizenships over the past year, as Kuwait tackles illegal nationality claims [1][3]. Biometric tools like DNA and iris scans are being used to identify irregularities and fraud in the nationality files [1][3].
The implications of this campaign are far-reaching. A continuous investigation of all citizenship claims is ongoing, with recommendations for revocation going to the Cabinet for ratification [1][3]. Plans are also in place to introduce a new electronic version of the Kuwaiti nationality document to enhance security and reduce forgery [2][3].
Particular focus is being given to those granted citizenship under special categories, such as “distinguished services,” with a grace period for affected individuals to rectify their status [5]. Some citizenship revocations have affected individuals and even deceased prominent figures, indicating the depth and rigor of the review process [5].
Those stripped of their citizenship are offered benefits, except for the citizenship status itself, provided they maintain ties with their countries of origin [3]. However, the issue of about 120,000 stateless people in Kuwait, known as "bidoon", remains a contentious issue, despite efforts to address it through legislative reforms [4].
The minister has revealed that coordination with several countries has helped uncover numerous "forgers" in the nationality claims [6]. The policy targets foreigners who illegally obtained Kuwaiti citizenship, as Kuwait does not allow dual nationality, and those who acquire Kuwaiti citizenship must renounce their original nationality [7].
Since the campaign escalated this year, nearly 50,000 Kuwaiti citizenships have been revoked. In July, an individual was stripped of their Kuwaiti citizenship in the "higher interest" of the state, as reported by the state news agency [8]. Despite these efforts, challenges have persisted over several years due to political tension [9].
This sweeping and inclusive campaign targets illegal nationality claims across all segments of society, including political elites, with significant implications for those involved and efforts to tighten national security and identity verification [1][2][3][5].
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