NGO’s Soft Power in Kuwait: A Shift in Control or Core Management?

In Kuwait, the evolution of civil society organizations (CSOs), a diverse range of multifaceted organizations operating much like conventional NGOs, has been significant, particularly against political inertia and shifting societal demands. Due to the country’s distinctive funding and regulatory restrictions, local civil society organizations operate as conventional CSOs but receive government funding and are subject to approval and oversight by the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA). Oversight is based on Law No. 24 of 1962, which regulates CSOs and imposes strict limitations, such as prohibiting involvement in political or religious activities and mandating approval for any communications with other government entities. 

However, unlike NGOs, CSOs receive only limited government backing, cannot raise external funding, and depend largely on alms and private donations. Older associations either receive funding, are granted land, or are provided a physical space. However, any association established after 1990 does not receive funding or land allocations. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance, State property department treats CSOs like private sector entities, the state charge 30% of the value of an association’s investment on the allocated land, along with a land  rent of 250 fils (0.816$) per square meter from collected funds. 

In comparison, Kuwaiti NGOs largely depend on Zakat (Islamic charitable giving) and private donations. Additionally, they may obtain financial support from the government, with the amount allocated depending on the scope of the NGO's activities and the number of its members. Though MoSa is instrumental in orchestrating the monetary advantages of both groups, there continues to be a notable bias in resource allocation when comparing output. As NGOs become increasingly obsolete in giving back to society, CSO contributions have been plenty and notable in comparison. So what precisely do CSOs embody, and how have they risen to prominence within the Kuwaiti society?

NGOs vs CSOs

NGOs are voluntary associations with a social mission that largely function independently from governments, while CSOs operate outside traditional state institutions to advocate for citizens' rights, equality, and societal demands. In Kuwait, NGOs have evolved into CSOs, adopting the broader concept of civil society within a neoliberal framework that would otherwise be restricted under the conventional NGO framework. Since Kuwait’s independence in 1962, CSOs have emerged as proactive forces to address societal needs that the government may not adequately address, reflecting a wide range of activities such as social, cultural, professional, and health-related initiatives. The Woman’s Cultural Social Society (WCSS) is one such prominent organization that is actively involved in social projects. 

Furthermore, this shift in Kuwait has seen these organizations assume governance and policy implementation roles, often surpassing the expertise of government officials. This new role enables CSOs to become essential collaborators in shaping national and social policies; by contributing to service provision, they bolster the state's legitimacy while helping to alleviate public discontent and strengthen citizen engagement. Moreover, CSOs serve as intermediaries between the government, parliament, and the people. Their involvement enhances democratic governance practices tailored to Kuwait's unique context. However, the absence of government regulation poses challenges such as potential duplication of efforts and uneven distribution among civil society organizations. 

Certain CSOs often concentrate on independent projects without contemplating alignment with governmental strategies.

The increasing involvement of CSOs in service delivery also raises questions about the division of responsibilities between the government and civil society and concerns about potential redundancy in their efforts, especially in a small country like Kuwait. Moreover, challenges in the approval process for establishing CSOs with similar objectives can lead to competition for resources and potentially weaken their overall impact. At times, it is argued  that the establishment of CSOs seeks to serve personal interests rather than genuine social causes, complicating the civil society landscape in Kuwait. Certain CSOs often concentrate on independent projects without contemplating alignment with governmental strategies. These limitations undermine their contributions to the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Kuwait Vision 2035.

Kuwait's government, amid political turbulence, has acknowledged the evolving role of CSOs but retains core responsibilities such as education and healthcare. However, it faces criticism for neglecting the efforts of prominent CSOs and failing to meet ambitious development objectives. This fragmented nature of sustainability efforts underscores the need for improved collaboration and coordination among stakeholders. 

Increasing CSO role

In a bid to streamline the country’s decision-making processes, Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah recently announced the dissolution of parliament effective June 1, 2024. In the past decade, governmental inefficiencies and temporary appointments—among other challenges—have hindered the effective implementation of plans across various sectors. Thus, CSOs have often filled gaps in service delivery, bringing their expertise to navigate Kuwait's social and political landscape. This has led to increased CSO participation in government committees. Although the Emir has outlined a timeline of up to four years for the restoration of the National Assembly, the pivotal role that CSOs play underscores their significant contribution to governance during this transitional phase.

Fostering collaboration between the government and civil society is imperative to effectively address societal challenges and achieve SDGs.

In conclusion, CSOs in Kuwait play a critical role in governance, championing societal change and delivering vital services. Their growing influence, while prompting concerns about government accountability and service provision, underscores their significance in social development. Fostering collaboration between the government and civil society is imperative to effectively address societal challenges and achieve SDGs.

One approach to improving cooperation and regulation among CSOs is to establish a national umbrella organization. This will help streamline efforts and minimize duplication. Capacity-building initiatives are needed to address management and institutional disparities, thereby increasing CSOs’ effectiveness. Furthermore, aligning CSO projects with broader development strategies through improved coordination with government bodies can amplify their impact.

The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not reflect an official position of the Wilson Center.