Kuwait revokes citizenship of 153 individuals in ongoing crackdown

Kuwait revokes citizenship of 153 individuals in ongoing crackdown

Kuwait has revoked the citizenship of 153 individuals, including their dependents, according to a decree published in the official gazette, media outlets reported. Those affected reportedly include descendants of tribal leaders from the Shammar and Anaza tribes, such as members of the Al-Jarba and Al-Hadhil families.

This move is part of a wider campaign launched in August 2024, which has seen over 42,000 people stripped of nationality. Targets include dual nationals—especially those also holding Saudi citizenship—as well as women naturalised through marriage and public figures.

Legal amendments in late 2024 tightened citizenship laws, including removing judicial oversight from revocation decisions. Human rights groups have criticised the measures for increasing statelessness and disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups. Those stripped of nationality lose access to basic rights and are reclassified as stateless or “Bidoon.”