Minister orders probe into child torture video, urges legal action

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KUWAIT CITY, July 1: Dr. Mathal Al-Huwaila, Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Child Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs has ordered an immediate investigation into a distressing incident involving the exploitation of a young child, directing that a detailed report be submitted to the Public Prosecution. The action follows the circulation of a video showing a child, no older than ten years, tied with ropes and compelled to pull a vehicle with his body — an act deemed as physical torture.

Expressing grave concern over the welfare of the child depicted in the video, Al-Huwaila has instructed the Supreme Council for Family Affairs to monitor the situation closely. She emphasized the Council’s responsibility to safeguard children from violence and exploitation, ensuring that appropriate legal measures are taken in accordance with the law. Under Article 3 of Law No. 21 of 2015, which outlines the rights of the child, every child is entitled to life, growth, and protection from all forms of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Article 6, Paragraph 3 of the same law underscores the state’s obligation to provide a safe and healthy environment for children, actively combating practices detrimental to their well-being. Psychological abuse, as defined in Article 71, includes any harmful behavior imposed on a child that exceeds their capabilities or forces them into self-destructive actions.

Al-Huwaila reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to combating violence against children, promoting awareness of their rights within society, and ensuring their protection from all forms of exploitation. She emphasized the importance of upholding these rights and swiftly addressing incidents that threaten the well-being of vulnerable children.

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