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 Kuwait portal |
Kuwait is an emirate with an autocratic political system.[1] The Emir of Kuwait, a hereditary monarch from the Al Sabah ruling family appoints the prime minister (who is always a royal) and other members of government, as well as members of judicial, police and financial institutions.
Kuwait is a wealthy rentier state.[2]
The Constitution of Kuwait was ratified in 1962 and has elements of a presidential and parliamentary system of government. The Emir is the head of state, whose powers are listed in the constitution.
The Constitution of Kuwait was promulgated in 1962.
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Main article: Cabinet of Kuwait |
The prime minister is appointed by the unelected head of state (Emir of Kuwait). The prime minister chooses the cabinet of ministers (government).
The Emir's powers are defined by the 1961 constitution. These powers include appointing the prime minister, who in turn chooses the cabinet (government). Upon the death of the Emir, the crown prince succeeds.
Power in Kuwait has traditionally been balanced between the Emir — particularly under Mubarak — and the merchant class. Mubarak effectively built the modern Kuwaiti state, establishing the tax system, trade levies, a customs administration, and the provision of social services.[1] Political institutions were built in Kuwait in large part due to exit vetoes exercised by merchants on Mubarak. The acquiescence of the merchants and the broader population to the rule of the Emir and the Sabah family was due to a division of monopoly rents: the Sabah family, through the state, to control the oil industry, and the merchants to dominate other industries.[1] The public at large was given social services from education to health care, funded by oil wealth. This arrangement has allowed the ruling family "to maintain power without making substantial political concessions."[1]
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Main article: Legal system of Kuwait |
The judiciary in Kuwait is not independent of the government, the Emir appoints all the judges and many judges are foreign nationals from Egypt. In each administrative district of Kuwait, there is a Summary Court (also called Courts of First Instance which are composed of one or more divisions, like a Traffic Court or an Administrative Court); then there is Court of Appeals; Cassation Court, and lastly - a Constitutional Court which interprets the constitution and deals with disputes related to the constitutionality of laws. Kuwait has a civil law legal system.
Legislative power is exercised by the Emir of Kuwait. It was formerly exercised by the National Assembly.[1][2]
Kuwait's foreign relations are characterized by a strategic balance of regional alliances and global partnerships. As a founding member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Kuwait collaborates closely with its Gulf neighbors, notably Saudi Arabia, to promote regional stability and economic integration. Relations with Iraq have been complex due to historical conflicts, but recent efforts have focused on reconciliation and cooperation. Kuwait maintains a cautious yet pragmatic relationship with Iran and often acts as a mediator in regional disputes. The country also enjoys a robust strategic partnership with the United States, underscored by defense cooperation and extensive economic ties. Additionally, Kuwait has developed strong relations with European countries, focusing on trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.[18][19][20][21][22]
Globally, Kuwait has expanded its relations with major Asian economies like China, Japan, South Korea, and India, primarily driven by energy trade and investment. The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development exemplifies Kuwait's significant contributions to international humanitarian and development aid, providing financial assistance and technical support to developing countries. Kuwait's role as a mediator in regional conflicts and its active participation in international environmental initiatives further highlight its commitment to global stability and sustainability. Through these multifaceted diplomatic efforts, Kuwait leverages its economic resources and strategic position to navigate complex international dynamics and promote cooperation on the global stage.
