Latest news with #andChildhoodAffairs
Arab Times
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait's debt relief campaign sets a new charity standard
KUWAIT CITY, April 15: Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, affirmed on Tuesday that the national campaign to help pay off the debts of individuals in financial distress represents a historic milestone and a pioneering humanitarian initiative. She praised the campaign for highlighting the depth of cohesion and solidarity within Kuwaiti society. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) following the campaign's conclusion, Dr. Al-Huwailah announced that the total donations collected amounted to KD 13,726,706.31 (approximately USD 44.77 million), contributed by 21,851 donors. She expressed her appreciation for this exceptional turnout and generous giving, which she believes reflects the authenticity of the Kuwaiti people and their deeply rooted humanitarian values. Dr. Al-Huwailah also expressed pride in the widespread participation of individuals, institutions, cooperative and charitable societies, and other charitable organizations, all of which helped bring the campaign's objectives to life. She emphasized that the success of the national debt relief campaign is a reflection of Kuwait's bright, civilized, and humanitarian image, made possible by the directives of the country's wise political leadership. 'This unique humanitarian initiative will stand as a shining moment in the history of Kuwaiti charitable work and a living example of community solidarity,' Dr. Al-Huwailah said. She noted that the campaign not only reinforced the values of mercy and national unity, but also helped restore hope and stability to many families facing financial challenges. She stated that the generosity displayed by the people of Kuwait in this campaign will remain engraved in history, praising the high national spirit and sense of humanitarian responsibility shown by the donors. 'Their generous contributions reflect Kuwait's leadership and excellence in charitable and humanitarian endeavors,' she added.
Arab Times
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
‘Kuwait's charitable legacy must remain untarnished'
KUWAIT CITY, April 10: Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah categorically rejected any actions that tarnish Kuwait's reputation in the field of charitable work, 'whether done in good faith or deliberately to harm this noble humanitarian sector'. During her meeting on Thursday with representatives of charitable organizations at the ministry to improve the performance of charitable work in coordination with state sectors, Dr. Al-Huwailah said, 'There are many issues that need attention and discussion. Some organizations have strayed from their intended path, and we must collaborate to discuss necessary amendments to correct the course of certain organizations, particularly concerning collecting donations, especially foreign donations, as some of them may potentially harm charitable work. 'I was shocked by the issue related to the debtors' campaign and the role of organizations in addressing it. We expected to reach a specific number, which we would discuss later. In addition, international reports have raised observations about the State of Kuwait, and this is no secret, it is well known, whether by the U.S. Treasury or other international organizations. Some charitable organizations have received negative feedback, and we are here to improve this performance with your help, the ministry, and the laws, as well as to amend and refine these laws so that we can stand on solid ground. 'We are subject to external evaluations of charitable work, not just within Kuwait but globally. Kuwait is part of the global community, whether at the level of Gulf countries, Arab nations, or countries worldwide. The world's eyes are on Kuwait, and we will not tolerate any harm to its reputation due to wrong practices, whether done in good faith or intentionally, that could damage Kuwaiti charitable work. 'Charitable work in Kuwait has been ongoing for over 300 years, and this history is evident, not just in Kuwait. The origins of charitable work began within Kuwait, where Kuwaitis have long supported each other. Over time, this path of charitable work expanded beyond Kuwait, and it is clear that Kuwait's history in this area is significant. Charitable work is deeply rooted in the Kuwaiti people, and we do not overlook the contributions of traders, state officials, and the government as a whole. This has allowed charitable institutions to highlight Kuwait's civilized image through the services provided both inside and outside the country. 'Kuwait was chosen as a center for humanitarian work, a global title granted by the United Nations, and we all agree that Kuwait is recognized for its humanitarian efforts. However, there are many issues that need to be addressed and clarified. Some charitable organizations have strayed from their path, and we need your support to help correct the course of these organizations, whether in terms of collecting donations, handling external projects, or localizing charitable work. Some practices are harmful to charitable efforts, so it is necessary to establish regulations. 'We are here with you to discuss these matters because Kuwait's interests are our interests. Our top priority is the welfare of Kuwait, along with its reputation, both locally and internationally. This also includes localizing charitable work, as most Kuwaiti charitable efforts are outside of Kuwait, and most countries prioritize internal charitable work before expanding externally. 'I am fully confident and optimistic in this regard. Today, we are meeting to identify the areas we can overcome and agree upon in order to address any concerns or observations about the State of Kuwait.' During the meeting, the minister highlighted a number of issues related to the work of charitable societies and the mechanisms for collecting donations, especially those from abroad, which could lead to complications or open doors to misinterpretation and misuse. Dr. Al-Huwailah stressed the need for a review of existing legislation and amendments to ensure the continued success of Kuwaiti charitable work, in a manner that reflects Kuwait's leadership and humanitarian legacy. The minister insisted that charitable work must be in line with the state's overall policy, highlighting that Kuwait's history is deeply rooted in charitable work, with its rulers and citizens contributing to humanitarian causes for over 300 years.
Arab Times
13-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Minister Al-Huwailah stresses strong Kuwait-China ties and seeks to strengthen social welfare cooperation
NEW YORK, March 13: Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, affirmed on Wednesday the long-standing and strong relations between Kuwait and China, which have lasted for more than 55 years. She expressed hope to further enhance the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the areas of social welfare and family development. This statement came during a meeting between Dr. Al-Huwailah and Mei Huang Xuewei, the Chinese Minister and Vice Chairperson of the National Special Working Committee for Women and Children's Affairs, held on the sidelines of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the United Nations. The two ministers discussed ways to support and empower women in society, as well as to improve social services for families. Dr. Al-Huwailah highlighted Kuwait's policies aimed at supporting women, focusing on social welfare services that enhance family stability and support mothers and children. She also pointed to Kuwait's experience in providing services designed to achieve social justice and strengthen societal cohesion. Both sides expressed their mutual desire to enhance bilateral cooperation in the field of social welfare, exchange expertise in supporting families, and empower women. They also discussed developing joint work mechanisms in areas such as social protection, rehabilitation, vocational training, and supporting vulnerable groups in need of care.
Arab Times
12-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait continues to empower women with progressive social policies: Minister
NEW YORK, March 12: Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah emphasized Kuwait's commitment to empowering women across various fields through the development of social protection policies designed to ensure justice and enhance economic opportunities. Al-Huwailah delivered her remarks at a ministerial meeting titled "From the Beijing Declaration after 30 years to the Second World Summit for Social Development: Accelerating Women's Empowerment through Social Protection". The event, held on the sidelines of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the United Nations, saw the participation of representatives from several countries and international organizations. The discussions centered on ways to improve social policies and strengthen economic and social protection for women. Opening her speech, Al-Huwailah congratulated all participants on the occasion of International Women's Day, noting that the meeting offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen international cooperation to support women. She emphasized the importance of accelerating efforts to empower women and enhance their contributions to sustainable development. Al-Huwailah highlighted that social protection is a critical tool in promoting social and economic stability, reducing social gaps, and supporting women's economic independence. She pointed out that Kuwait has been proactive in developing social security systems that specifically target women, in alignment with the government's work program for the period 2024-2027. The Minister detailed Kuwait's efforts to provide social assistance to more than 49,915 families, benefiting over 56,834 citizens. This includes financial support under Law No. (12) of 2011 for families facing financial difficulties, covering housewives, the elderly, divorcees, widows, unmarried women, families of prisoners, married women with undetermined nationalities, and those eligible for rent allowances as per Law No. (6) of 2022. Al-Huwailah also underscored Kuwait's advancements in social protection, particularly in the digitization of social records. This initiative has helped improve the efficiency of assistance distribution, minimize administrative complications, and ensure that support reaches those most in need. She stressed that these efforts reflect Kuwait's unwavering commitment to empowering women not just through economic opportunities, but by fostering a supportive legal and social environment that guarantees their rights and enhances their role in national development. The Minister further noted the ongoing efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to empower women, particularly through the Joint Gulf Action Strategy for Women's Affairs 2024-2030. This strategy aims to increase women's participation in the economy and society, ensure equal opportunities, and create a secure legislative environment that allows women to fulfill their roles effectively. Al-Huwailah explained that the strategy is based on principles of justice, sustainability, and competitiveness, aiming to integrate women into all development sectors and enhance their leadership in the economic and technological fields. She also commended the efforts of Qatar in hosting the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled for November in Doha. Al-Huwailah considered the summit an important opportunity to boost international efforts for comprehensive social development and accelerate the implementation of goals related to social protection. Kuwait fully supports this summit, recognizing its importance in promoting social policies that foster social and economic justice. In the face of global economic challenges, Al-Huwailah emphasized the urgent need for reforming the global debt structure to prevent economic crises from further hindering women's empowerment and obstructing the achievement of sustainable development goals. She highlighted that many developing countries struggle to finance social programs for women and stressed the need for international financial and technical support to ensure that social protection goals are met. Concluding her speech, Al-Huwailah affirmed that empowering women is not only a human rights obligation but also an investment in the future and sustainability of societies. She underscored that women are key drivers of economic and social stability and play an essential role in promoting sustainable development. Al-Huwailah reiterated Kuwait's commitment to supporting regional and international initiatives aimed at achieving gender equality and empowering women in all sectors. She concluded by reaffirming Kuwait's dedication to advancing social policies that promote social justice and empower women to access economic and social opportunities, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Zawya
07-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
Kuwait steps in to clear citizens' debts
KUWAIT CITY - The Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah announced that the ministry is preparing to launch a campaign to help pay off the debts of Kuwaiti debtors through charity societies in line with specific conditions and standards set for debt repayment. In a press statement issued on the sidelines of the annual Iftar party organized by the Ministry of Social Affairs in cooperation with the Public Authority for Disability Affairs (PADA) at social welfare homes complex, Dr. Al-Huwailah explained that the campaign to collect donations for paying off debts of indebted citizens comes in response to the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to promote local charitable work. The campaign will be conducted through the Central Assistance Platform, which allows beneficiaries to apply easily using their civil ID and uploading required documents and information. Charity societies will receive requests from debtors, and each charity society will classify them according to what it deems appropriate based on the set conditions. She stated that the campaign will be supervised by the ministry in collaboration with charitable societies, as part of efforts to strengthen social solidarity and alleviate the burdens of struggling families. Dr. Al-Huwailah commended the efforts of the staff at the ministry and PADA. She stressed her keenness to improve communication with beneficiaries and provide services that meet the highest standards of quality and comfort. Meanwhile, the acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi revealed that a large portion of the funds raised by charity societies during the month of Ramadan will be allocated to assist debtors, under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs, to support charitable initiatives. In a press statement, he revealed that a circular has been issued to all charitable societies to direct them to allocate their funds toward promoting local charitable work through charities and endowments. Dr. Al-Ajmi explained that the project will be launched under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs and will include the legal conditions for the indebted. The funds collected during Ramadan by charitable societies will be primarily directed toward this campaign. Regarding the exceptional performance bonuses, he indicated that they will be distributed soon but only to those who truly deserve them, rather than to all employees who received an 'excellent' rating, in line with the requirements of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in this regard. In addition, the Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care Affairs Dr. Jassim Al-Kandari affirmed the ministry's commitment to providing a supportive environment that ensures the delivery of the best services to beneficiaries. He stressed that the Social Care Sector is a main pillar of the social work system. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( arabtimes
