Latest news with #SocialAffairs
Qatar Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Shura Council okays draft law on persons with disabilities
QNA Doha The Shura Council has approved the draft law on persons with disabilities in its amended form and referred it to the esteemed government, after reviewing the report of the Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee and discussing its details with their Excellencies the members. The Shura Council, chaired by Speaker HE Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim, took the decision on Monday after holding a debate on the report of the Social Affairs, Labor, and Housing Committee on the request for a general discussion submitted by several members regarding the conditions of persons with disabilities. During the discussion of the report, Al Ghanim emphasized that the achievements made in supporting and empowering persons with disabilities are the fruit of the ongoing efforts of the esteemed government, in accordance with the directives of His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030 and its development strategies. He highlighted the importance of reinforcing these efforts by providing a comprehensive and supportive environment that enables persons with disabilities to fulfill their role as an active partner in the advancement of society, while stressing the need to overcome the existing challenges that continue to hinder it. During his review of the report, Chairman of the Social Affairs, Labor, and Housing Committee HE Abdulrahman bin Yousuf Al Khulaifi referred to the meetings and consultations held by the committee, review of the opinions of specialists and stakeholders, and the recommendations aimed at developing policies related to persons with disabilities and improving the quality of services provided to them. After extensive discussion of the report, the Council decided to submit a proposal to the esteemed government, which included several recommendations aimed at improving the conditions of persons with disabilities. These recommendations include establishing a unified database, reducing working hours, granting special leave to parents in entities not subject to the Human Resources Law and creating positions for sign language interpreters and qualified specialists in service sectors. Also among the recommendations that contribute to integrating persons with disabilities into society are the development of university curricula, the establishment of specialized institutes, rehabilitation centers, and specialized social club along with including them in the health insurance system and increasing their social security pensions. At the outset of the meeting, the legislature hailed HH the Amir's participation in the Second Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on May 27 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The legislative body affirmed that this participation reflects the State of Qatar's commitment to enhancing strategic openness to Asian countries and activating channels of communication and cooperation, which contributes to achieving mutual interests and supports initiatives aimed at consolidating sustainable development and regional stability. The Shura Council also approved a draft law amending some provisions of Law No (7) of 2021 regarding the Shura Council and referred it to the esteemed government, after reviewing and discussing the committee's report thereon. Moreover, the Council also reviewed a proposal to amend some provisions of the Shura Council's internal regulations, issued by Law No (8) of 2024, and decided to refer it to the Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee for further review. The Council then reviewed the report on its participation in the discussion session organized by the Coalition of Women Parliamentarians from Arab Countries to Combat Violence against Women, entitled 'The Arab Declaration Against All Forms of Violence Against Women and Girls,' which was held via videoconferencing last March. The Council also reviewed a report on its delegation's participation in the Arab Forum for Sustainable Development (AFSD) 2025, held in Beirut, last April. The Shura Council's meeting was attended by several officials from ministries and care and rehabilitation centers for persons with disabilities, along with stakeholders and activists in this field.
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait ministry boosts transparency and oversight in cooperative sector
KUWAIT CITY, May 29: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila emphasized the ministry's commitment to improving work in the cooperative sector and enhancing transparency by supporting monitors and inspectors, calling them the 'trustworthy eyes of the state' in cooperative societies. Speaking at an open meeting with the Ministry's Control and Inspection Department, Dr. Al-Huwailah said the meeting aimed to strengthen the institutional work environment and address field challenges. She highlighted the cooperative sector as a unique and praised model in Kuwait and the Gulf, with significant social and economic benefits, stressing that contributing citizens are key partners in this national development. She stressed teamwork and professionalism, noting that many financial and administrative issues in some societies arise from weak oversight or supervisory lapses. Responsibility begins with individual commitment to duties. She praised the Control and Inspection Department's success in detecting violations and fighting corruption alongside the Ministry of Interior, reflecting the competence of national cadres in safeguarding public funds and promoting integrity. The Minister encouraged employees to be transparent and share field observations, acknowledging the pressures inspectors face. She reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to developing control and technical systems to provide services aligned with international standards, boosting citizen satisfaction and trust in Kuwait's cooperative sector. Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Cooperative Sector Ahmed Al-Furaij said the meeting was part of the Minister's efforts to communicate directly with inspectors to support and motivate them. The meeting produced recommendations emphasizing adherence to the new Nazaha Law, especially regarding financial disclosures and conflict of interest declarations. Al-Furaij noted the Minister values auditors' field experience and prioritizes their recommendations when drafting ministerial regulations. Key topics included auditors' observations on administrative and financial expenses, supplier payments, and social services in cooperative societies. Proposals will be submitted for regulatory amendments to enhance transparency. He outlined a comprehensive development plan that includes ongoing legal, administrative, and financial training for auditors and the introduction of advanced technologies such as electronic reports, digital correspondence, and an electronic check system. The ministry is launching a pilot phase of an integrated digital oversight project, selecting prototype associations to monitor financial and administrative activities. Al-Furaij stressed this pilot represents a major step to tighten control and improve cooperative performance, with evaluation before wider application. On report accuracy, he said auditing takes time to ensure data reliability and professionalism, with careful review guaranteeing objective and trustworthy reports.
Kuwait Times
27-05-2025
- Health
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait launches disability guide to ensure transparency, fairness
Guide offers specific and standardized procedures for evaluating types of disabilities KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah announced the launch of the 'Kuwait Disability Guide 2025,' describing it as a vital national initiative that underscores Kuwait's commitment to local legislation and international agreements. The guide aims to establish transparency and justice in the assessment and diagnosis of disabilities in accordance with global standards. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the occasion, Dr Al-Huwailah said the initiative aligns with the provisions of Law No 73 of 2020, specifically Article 48, Clause 17, which mandates the development of clear scientific criteria for disability diagnosis. The law also requires the Public Authority for the Affairs of Persons with Disabilities to publish these standards and make them accessible via its official website. Dr Al-Huwailah highlighted that the guide is the result of a decade-long effort carried out in collaboration with experts from the United Nations, the World Health Organization, medical and technical committees from the Public Authority, and specialized doctors from the Ministry of Health. The goal, she noted, was to develop a comprehensive national reference grounded in best international practices. Participants attend the press conference to launch the Kuwait Guide for Disability 2025. Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah. Acting Director General of the Public Authority for the Affairs of Persons with Disabilities, Wafaa Al-Muhanna. The minister explained that the guide offers specific and standardized procedures for evaluating various types of disabilities — including mental, physical, psychological, motor, visual, and auditory impairments — ensuring accurate diagnoses and tailored support for individuals. She added that the guide aims to unify diagnostic criteria, assist specialists in decision-making, and streamline procedures across medical and judicial bodies. It also serves as a reference for professionals in healthcare, education, employment and caregiving sectors. Dr Al-Huwailah reaffirmed Kuwait's steadfast commitment to safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities, emphasizing that this is a shared national responsibility embraced by the state's leadership, government and people. She expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the creation of the guide, and reiterated the government's dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society. Meanwhile, Acting Director General of the Public Authority for the Affairs of Persons with Disabilities, Wafaa Al-Muhanna, said the launch marks a significant step toward institutional transparency and public awareness. In a separate statement to KUNA, Al-Muhanna noted that the guide will help define diagnostic procedures and assess the severity of disabilities, enabling its application across government and healthcare entities. She added that the Authority had uploaded the guide to its official website in line with Law No. 8 of 2010, and continues to develop tools and resources to better serve people with disabilities. Al-Muhanna affirmed the Authority's commitment to collaborating with local and international partners to enhance the lives, health, and well-being of persons with disabilities. — KUNA
Arab Times
26-05-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
'Kuwait Disability Index 2025' to strengthen disability rights and services
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: The Minister of Social Affairs, Family Affairs, and Childhood, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, announced the official launch of the "Kuwait Disability Index 2025" on Monday, marking a significant step in the country's commitment to both national legislation and international agreements on disability rights. Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) about the initiative, Dr. Al-Huwailah emphasized that the launch aligns with Law No. 73/2020, particularly Article 48, Clause 17, which mandates the establishment of clear scientific standards for diagnosing disabilities. Additionally, the law requires that these standards be made publicly available through the Public Authority for Disability Affairs' (PADA) official website. The comprehensive reference guide, which has been under development for the past ten years, is the result of collaborative efforts involving experts from the United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO), the PADA's medical and technical committees, and specialists from the Ministry of Health (MoH). The aim is to provide precise and standardized criteria for diagnosing various types of disabilities, including mental, physical, psychological, mobility, visual, and hearing impairments. Dr. Al-Huwailah explained that the reference guide will not only assist specialists in making accurate decisions but will also promote fairness and consistency in the procedures followed across medical, educational, and employment sectors. The guide serves as a key tool for unifying the diagnostic process, ensuring that all individuals receive the appropriate support based on their unique needs. Highlighting the social importance of the initiative, Dr. Al-Huwailah stressed that protecting the rights of people with disabilities is a shared national responsibility. She reaffirmed the country's commitment to providing equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities, ensuring their active participation in community development. Dr. Al-Huwailah also expressed her gratitude to all those who contributed to the creation of the guide, emphasizing Kuwait's continued support for the disabled community and their full integration into society. In a related statement, Wafaa Al-Muhanna, the Acting Director General of PADA, described the guide as an essential tool in advancing transparency and promoting awareness of disability issues in society. Al-Muhanna pointed out that the guide will help government and medical agencies accurately assess and categorize disabilities, ensuring a consistent approach to diagnosis and care. Al-Muhanna noted that the guide would be uploaded on PADA's official website in compliance with Law No. 8/2010, and it is designed to serve both governmental agencies and medical professionals working with individuals with disabilities. The official launch of the "Kuwait Reference for Disability 2025" marks a milestone in the country's ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive society and enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Arab Times
26-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait tightens financial oversight for charitable and cooperative societies with new amendments
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah announced on Sunday the issuance of new amendments to Law No. 2 of 2016, which governs the establishment of the Public Authority for Combating Corruption (Nazaha). The amendments focus on financial disclosure requirements aimed at strengthening transparency, integrity, and accountability in civil, charitable, and cooperative work. In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr. Al-Huwailah said the Ministry of Social Affairs proposed the amendments to include additional categories required to submit financial disclosure statements to Nazaha. These newly added categories include financial and administrative controllers, members of the boards of directors of charitable and civil societies, as well as their executive directors. These categories are now included alongside the existing requirement for members of cooperative society boards. 'The goal of these changes is to enhance oversight and achieve the highest standards of transparency across the various sectors supervised by the ministry,' she said. Dr. Al-Huwailah emphasized the importance of all individuals covered by the amendments submitting their financial disclosures on time. She reiterated the ministry's commitment to reinforcing governance principles, upholding integrity, and ensuring sound management and accountability of public funds in charitable, civil, and cooperative activities. The amendments were formalized in Decree-Law No. 69 of 2025, which modifies some provisions of Law No. 2 of 2016 concerning the Public Authority for Combating Corruption and financial asset disclosure. The decree was published in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Today), issue No. 1740, on Sunday, Dhu al-Qi'dah 27, 1446 AH, corresponding to May 25, 2025.
