Racism and Discrimination in Kuwaiti Society: A Deep-Rooted Crisis

Kuwaiti society confronts a profound challenge of racism and discrimination, characterized by widespread racial segregation and vehement rhetoric directed against immigrants, particularly those from third world countries. This complex issue stems from historical, social, and political factors. As a result, citizens and parliamentarians in Kuwait are increasingly vocal in attributing societal issues to immigrants, fostering an atmosphere of xenophobia and exclusion.

The political landscape in Kuwait has seen the rise of exclusionary rhetoric, with significant figures openly advocating for discriminatory policies. In 2019, Kuwaiti parliamentarian Safa Al-Hashem called for the establishment of hospitals exclusively for foreigners, arguing that this would allow Kuwaiti citizens to enjoy superior medical services. Al-Hashem’s proposals reflect a broader agenda to create a dual-tiered society where foreigners and locals do not share the same rights. Her controversial stance does not stop there; in 2018, she proposed taxing foreign residents for the "air they breathe," suggesting that "public services subsidized by the state should be reserved exclusively for Kuwaitis" and that foreigners should be denied free access to these services.

This rhetoric finds resonance among certain segments of the Kuwaiti population, which perceives foreigners as a threat to their economic and social stability. The narrative that immigrants are the root cause of societal issues has gained traction, fueling discriminatory attitudes and policies. Abu Khalil, a liberal Kuwaiti parliamentarian, has been vocal about his concerns regarding this dangerous mindset. He remarked that a significant portion of the Kuwaiti population "considers themselves a superior race, which is no less dangerous than Hitler's Nazism," and he expressed his fear that "some may one day call for the burning of foreigners."

Discrimination in Kuwait is not limited to rhetoric; it is institutionalized in various policies and initiatives. Recent years have seen several exclusionary measures that underscore the systemic nature of this issue. For instance, the Ministry of Health has proposed creating hospitals exclusively for Kuwaitis, which would deny foreigners access to critical healthcare services. Additionally, there has been an increase in the price of driving licenses for foreigners, reflecting a broader trend of economic discrimination. Since 2017, the prices of essential utilities such as electricity and water have been raised specifically for foreigners, exacerbating the financial burden on non-Kuwaiti residents.

The human impact of these policies is profound and troubling. I experienced this firsthand when I suffered from food poisoning on Kuwait Airways and was neglected for nine hours at the airport. Eventually, I was transferred to Al-Farwaniya Hospital, where I was placed in a ward designated exclusively for foreigners from poor countries such as Egypt, Syria, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This ward housed individuals with severe conditions like cancer, viral hepatitis, chest infections, tuberculosis, and gastrointestinal parasites, posing significant health risks to all patients.

The treatment and services provided to these patients were substandard, reflecting systemic discrimination. These individuals, already vulnerable due to their health conditions and economic status, faced additional hardships due to the prejudices embedded in the healthcare system. This experience underscored the harsh reality of racial discrimination in Kuwait and the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure equality and humane treatment for all residents.

To understand the roots of racism in Kuwait, it is essential to delve into its historical context. Kuwait, like many Gulf states, has a complex history of migration and labor dynamics. The discovery of oil in the mid-20th century transformed Kuwait into a wealthy nation, attracting a large influx of foreign workers to support its burgeoning economy. However, this rapid economic development also brought about social tensions and a hierarchical labor system that favored Kuwaiti citizens over foreign workers.

Foreign workers, primarily from Asian and Arab countries, were often employed in low-paying and labor-intensive jobs. Despite their significant contributions to the economy, they faced social marginalization and were denied many of the rights and privileges enjoyed by Kuwaiti citizens. This historical context has contributed to the entrenched attitudes of superiority and the discriminatory policies that persist today.

Media and education play a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes and perpetuating stereotypes. In Kuwait, media outlets and educational institutions have been criticized for their portrayal of foreigners and the lack of emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. The representation of immigrants in the media often reinforces negative stereotypes, depicting them as threats to social stability and economic well-being. This biased portrayal exacerbates existing prejudices and fuels discriminatory attitudes.

Educational curricula also play a role in perpetuating these biases. There is a need for educational reforms that promote inclusivity, diversity, and mutual respect among different communities. By fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding, educational institutions can help combat the deep-rooted prejudices that contribute to racial discrimination.

The issue of racism and discrimination in Kuwait has drawn international attention and criticism. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of foreign workers and the lack of protections for their rights. Reports of abuse, exploitation, and inadequate living conditions have highlighted the urgent need for reforms to ensure the dignity and well-being of all residents in Kuwait.

International organizations have called on the Kuwaiti government to adopt comprehensive measures to address these issues. These measures include enforcing labor laws, providing access to justice for victims of discrimination, and implementing policies that promote social integration and equality. The international community's support and pressure can play a crucial role in driving positive change and holding the Kuwaiti government accountable for its human rights obligations.

Addressing racism and discrimination in Kuwaiti society requires a multifaceted approach. Legal reforms are essential to ensure that discriminatory policies are abolished and that all residents have equal access to rights and services. This includes revising labor laws to protect foreign workers, implementing anti-discrimination legislation, and establishing mechanisms for reporting and addressing instances of racism.

Moreover, public awareness campaigns are vital to challenge existing prejudices and promote a culture of inclusivity. These campaigns can leverage media, educational institutions, and community organizations to foster dialogue and understanding among different communities. By highlighting the contributions of immigrants to Kuwaiti society and emphasizing shared values, these initiatives can help bridge divides and promote social cohesion.

Racism and discrimination in Kuwaiti society are complex and deeply entrenched issues that require urgent attention and action. The exclusionary rhetoric and policies directed against immigrants reflect a broader societal problem that undermines the principles of equality and human dignity. By addressing the historical, social, and political factors that contribute to these prejudices, Kuwait can move towards a more inclusive and just society where all residents are treated with respect and fairness. The journey towards equality and inclusion may be challenging, but it is essential for the future of Kuwaiti society and its commitment to human rights.

Mohamed Moukannaa