As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Kuwait has intensified efforts to combat the persistent issue of begging, implementing stringent measures that include the deportation of offenders and legal action against their sponsors. This initiative aims to preserve the country’s image and maintain public order during the holy month.
Recent Arrests Highlight the Issue
In early March 2025, Kuwaiti authorities arrested several expatriates, including men and women, who were caught begging in front of mosques and markets. The individuals came from various Arab and Asian countries and had entered Kuwait using different visa types, including visit visas, family residency permits, and some were irregular workers without legal employment.
Authorities have stated that the individuals were engaging in organized begging, using sympathy-driven tactics to collect money from worshippers and shoppers. Some were found with large sums of money, indicating that begging has become a lucrative yet illegal practice in the country.
Legal Repercussions for Offenders and Sponsors
The Ministry of Interior has outlined strict penalties for those involved in begging. The legal actions will not only target the beggars but also the sponsors who are responsible for their stay in the country. The penalties vary based on the visa type of the offenders:
- Dependent Visa Holders (Article 22): Individuals caught begging under family residency permits will face immediate deportation. Additionally, their sponsors, who are typically family members, will also be penalized, which may include facing legal consequences and restrictions on future sponsorship privileges.
- Private Sector Workers (Article 18): Expatriates employed in the private sector who are found begging will be deported. Their sponsoring companies will face penalties, including potential fines or the closure of their company file, making it impossible for them to hire foreign workers in the future.
- Domestic Workers (Article 20): Domestic workers involved in begging will be deported, and their sponsors will face serious repercussions, including being barred from hiring new workers for a specific period or indefinitely.
These measures highlight the government’s commitment to holding sponsors accountable for the actions of their dependents and employees, ensuring that individuals residing in Kuwait abide by the country’s laws.
Public Awareness and Reporting
To strengthen the fight against begging, the Ministry of Interior has urged citizens and residents to report any instances of begging. Special hotlines and online platforms have been set up to receive such reports, operating around the clock to ensure swift action.
Authorities have emphasized that organized begging not only distorts Kuwait’s social image but also poses a security risk. Many cases have revealed that beggars work in groups, sometimes under the control of illegal networks that exploit the kindness of the public for financial gain.
As part of public awareness efforts, the government has launched a campaign to educate residents on the negative impact of giving money to beggars. Instead, citizens are encouraged to donate to registered charities that distribute aid in an organized and transparent manner. This initiative aims to redirect donations to people who genuinely need assistance rather than those who exploit the system.
Electronic Donations and Charity Regulations
To further curb begging and ensure proper distribution of charitable funds during Ramadan, the Ministry of Social Affairs has implemented strict regulations regarding donations. All donations must now be collected exclusively through licensed electronic channels. This move aims to enhance transparency and prevent the misuse of funds by unauthorized individuals or groups.
Under the new regulations, charities are required to adhere to a digital-only system for collecting funds. Unauthorized cash collections, particularly by street beggars, are strictly prohibited. Organizations found violating these rules may face fines, suspension, or even closure.
Government officials have stressed that these measures do not aim to suppress charitable giving but rather to streamline and regulate the process, ensuring that donations reach those who are genuinely in need.
Islamic Perspective on Begging
Islamic scholars in Kuwait have reiterated that begging is discouraged in Islam unless an individual is in extreme need. According to religious teachings, Muslims are encouraged to work and earn their livelihood through lawful means rather than relying on handouts.
Scholars emphasize that Ramadan is a time of generosity, but it is also a time for responsible giving. Instead of handing money to street beggars, Muslims are encouraged to donate to credible charitable organizations that can ensure fair and effective distribution of aid.
These teachings align with the government’s efforts to combat begging and promote organized charity. The objective is to prevent exploitation while encouraging a culture of responsible and ethical charitable contributions.
Striking a Balance Between Enforcement and Compassion
While the government has taken a firm stance against begging, it has also recognized the importance of addressing the root causes of poverty. Authorities have partnered with various charitable organizations to provide food, shelter, and medical aid to underprivileged individuals, ensuring that genuine cases of need are addressed through proper channels.
Social welfare programs have also been strengthened to support low-income families, particularly during Ramadan. Special initiatives, such as food distribution campaigns and financial aid programs, are being rolled out to provide relief to those who are struggling.
However, officials stress that these efforts must be complemented by public cooperation. The fight against begging requires collective responsibility, with citizens playing a key role in ensuring that aid reaches the right hands.
Conclusion
Kuwait’s comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of begging during Ramadan reflects a commitment to upholding societal values and public order. By enforcing strict penalties on offenders and their sponsors, promoting electronic donations, and raising public awareness, the government aims to eliminate begging and ensure that charitable contributions reach those truly in need through proper channels.
As Ramadan 2025 unfolds, these measures will be put to the test. The success of this initiative will depend on the cooperation of citizens, expatriates, and charitable organizations in adhering to the new regulations. With a structured and well-organized system in place, Kuwait hopes to create a more ethical and lawful environment for charitable giving while maintaining social order and security.
