Featured Speakers: Ambassador Patrick Theros, Dr. Courtney Freer and Dr. Michael Herb.

Synopsis:

In a dramatic shift in Kuwait’s political landscape, on May 10, 2024, Emir Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah declared the dissolution of the nation’s parliament and suspension of key constitutional articles for up to four years, only weeks after recent legislative elections. During this period, the emir and the cabinet will wield the legislative powers traditionally held by parliament. This marks the third instance of such a suspension in Kuwait in the last four decades. The emir cited widespread corruption and power abuses, infiltrating numerous state institutions—including those in security, economics, and the judiciary—as the catalysts for this decision. He emphasized that these measures are essential to protect the nation’s paramount interests amid ongoing instability.

This significant development underscores a troubling pattern in Kuwaiti politics, where the frequent dissolutions of parliament and resulting stalemates between legislative and executive branches have impeded crucial investments, reforms and necessary economic and development projects. These reforms are particularly aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil revenues.