European External Action Service

02/03/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/03/2026 11:14

Kuwait: 6th EU-Kuwait Human Rights Dialogue with the European Union held in Brussels

On 30 January 2026, the European Union and Kuwait held the 6th EU-Kuwait Human Rights Dialogue in Brussels, in an open and constructive atmosphere.

The EU and Kuwait reviewed respectively the latest developments on human rights, acknowledging achievements, identifying areas for enhanced cooperation in line with international human rights law, and agreeing to continue sharing of experiences to address common challenges.

The meeting covered labour rights, with particular attention to reforms related to the kafala system, the situation of domestic workers, and efforts to combat human trafficking. The parties also exchanged views on freedom of expression, assembly and association, women's and children's rights, and the rule of law, including the right to a fair trial, the prohibition and prevention of torture and revocation of nationalities. The EU expressed its principled opposition to the death penalty in all cases and under all circumstances, and reiterated its concerns regarding the rise of executions in Kuwait since 2022.

The two sides also discussed cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the Human Rights Council where Kuwait currently sits, and exchanged on the evolving developments in the region, reconfirming determination to join forces to preserve the international rules-based order and to promote regional peace and stability. Discussions also covered the Universal Periodic Review, the ratification of international human rights treaties, and engagement with Special Procedures.

As a follow up to the Dialogue, the EU and Kuwait agreed to focus their operational cooperation on countering trafficking of human beings with the EU encouraging Kuwait to join the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling and endorse the Global Alliance's Joint Declaration. Promotion of Women, Peace and Security on the 20th anniversary of UNSCR 1325 was also identified as a priority for joint action.

The next edition of EU-Kuwait Human Rights Dialogue will take place in Kuwait City in December 2026.

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