DUBAI — Kuwait's latest amendment to rules governing its citizenship has created concern over the country's growing descent into authoritarianism following the dissolution of its parliament in May and its increasingly inward-looking political structure.

On Sept. 25, Kuwait's council of ministers mooted plans to amend certain aspects of the Emiri decree No. 15 of 1959, relating to the country's citizenship rights. Under the amendment, the nationality of naturalized citizens could be revoked under certain circumstances, which include "crimes involving moral turpitude or dishonesty." Citizenship could be revoked for dismissal from public office due to issues "relating to honor." Any threats to state security or slights against the emir or religious figures could also result in the withdrawal of citizenship from naturalized citizens. The amendments also do not allow for automatic citizenship to the foreign wives of naturalized citizens. The minor children of naturalized citizens would be considered Kuwaiti but would have the choice to retain their nationality or opt for another one once they come of age. The changes have not been turned into law yet but are indicative of growing restrictions that have come into force under Kuwait's new emir.

New regime, new restrictions

The proposed changes come amid an increasing iron grip on Kuwait's political landscape by Emir Mishal al-Jaber al-Sabah, who assumed power in December 2023. Under his reign, Kuwait's parliament, one of the more democratic in the Gulf, has seen its powers curtailed.