KUWAIT CITY, Dec 3: Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, affirmed on Tuesday that the achievements made by the Public Authority for Disabled Affairs in 2024 reflect Kuwait's ongoing commitment to supporting the rights of persons with disabilities.

In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Minister Al-Huwailah stated that the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated annually on December 3, serves as a global occasion to raise awareness about the issues facing persons with disabilities and to strengthen efforts to ensure their rights and integrate them into society.

She noted that the Public Authority for Disabled Affairs has opened several specialized centers and departments this year, including the vocational rehabilitation department at the Doha International Center for Special Needs and a new reception hall in the West Abdullah Al-Mubarak area. These initiatives aim to expand and improve the quality of services, which currently benefit approximately 68,000 individuals.

The Minister also highlighted the Authority's continued efforts to sign cooperation protocols with government bodies such as the Public Authority for Minors Affairs and the Public Institution for Housing Care. These partnerships enhance services and streamline procedures. Additionally, the Authority has launched social media awareness campaigns to educate the public about available services and procedures.

Minister Al-Huwailah further explained that in 2024, the Authority worked to update the Kuwait Code with the goal of improving the urban environment to be more inclusive and accessible for persons with disabilities. New standards have been adopted to enhance access to public facilities and essential services.

She also pointed to the success of the "Partners for Their Employment" initiative, launched in partnership with the Human Construction Society for Social Development. In its sixth session (2024-2025), the initiative trained and qualified 123 individuals, reflecting its vital role in empowering persons with disabilities and integrating them into the labor market.

The Minister emphasized the Authority's ongoing commitment to achieving more milestones that will improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities and strengthen Kuwait’s position as a leader in this field. She expressed gratitude to all governmental and community agencies that have contributed to these accomplishments.

Kuwait continues to be a pioneer in supporting the rights of persons with disabilities both legislatively and socially. The adoption of the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (No. 8 of 2010) marks a key milestone in national legislation, offering numerous guarantees and services in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and social care.

The country remains dedicated to achieving tangible progress in empowering persons with disabilities through policies that align with international standards. Kuwait's commitment to the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities solidifies its position as a global leader in this field.