Kuwait has officially raised the minimum marriage age to 18, marking a significant step toward protecting minors and promoting social reforms. The decision comes after reports revealed that 1,145 underage marriages were recorded in 2024, sparking concerns about child welfare and legal protections.
The new law aligns with global human rights standards, aiming to ensure that young individuals enter marriage with maturity, consent, and legal safeguards. Lawmakers and activists have long advocated for stricter regulations to combat forced and early marriages, which often pose risks to education, health, and personal development.
Authorities believe this reform will empower young people, particularly girls, by giving them more time to pursue education and career opportunities before marriage. The move is expected to strengthen family stability and contribute to Kuwait’s broader social and legal modernization efforts.
While the law has been welcomed by many, some traditionalists have raised concerns about cultural implications. However, the government remains firm in its stance that setting 18 as the legal marriage age is a crucial step in ensuring a balanced and progressive society.
