KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti man has been sentenced to six months in prison for hacking and illegally accessing his wife’s mobile phone, according to a media report. Along with the prison term, the court also imposed a fine of KD3,000 ($9,720) on the man. The case highlights the strict legal consequences of cyber violations in Kuwait, reinforcing the country’s stance on digital privacy and unauthorized access to personal information.
In a separate case, a Kuwaiti criminal court sentenced a citizen to four years in prison for assaulting his ex-wife with a screwdriver. While details regarding the incident remain unclear, the severity of the punishment underscores Kuwait’s commitment to addressing domestic violence and ensuring that perpetrators face legal repercussions. Cases of violence against women have gained increasing attention, prompting discussions about strengthening legal protections and support systems for victims.
Meanwhile, Kuwait has recently introduced new regulations regarding premarital medical tests, applicable to all individuals planning to marry in the country, including expatriates. The Ministry of Health has approved updated guidelines set to take effect in April, aiming to safeguard public health, prevent genetic and infectious diseases, and ensure that marriages align with international medical standards. The revised framework extends medical examinations to all marriage contracts, regardless of whether both partners are Kuwaiti, one is Kuwaiti, or both are foreigners.
Kuwait’s evolving marital landscape has also been reflected in recent statistics. In 2023, the country recorded its lowest marriage rate in five years, coupled with a notable rise in divorce cases. According to the Central Statistical Bureau, a total of 11,166 marriages were registered that year, with 83.1% involving Kuwaiti couples. However, the divorce rate surged, with 5,932 cases reported, particularly among university-educated Kuwaitis. The increasing number of divorces has sparked concerns about social stability, prompting discussions on marital counseling and legal reforms to address the underlying causes of marital breakdowns.
