Ghada Hatim Eltahir

Guided by Kuwait’s Vision 2035 and the SDGs, the UN in Kuwait prioritizes initiatives in economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and regional stature enhancement.

What are the UN’s key priorities, and what challenges have you identified in Kuwait?

Kuwait possesses the necessary resources and enjoys the commitment of both its government and its citizens. At the UN, our efforts are guided by three principal documents: Kuwait Vision 2035, Sustainable Development Goads 2023 and Kuwait Work Plan. Kuwait’s National Vision 2035 serves as the cornerstone, outlining seven key areas inspired by the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to steer the nation toward growth, prosperity, and better welfare. It covers environmental sustainability as well, addressing climate change, the pursuit of renewable and clean energy solutions, and related challenges. The document concentrates on economic diversification, aiming to reduce Kuwait’s reliance on oil revenues, which currently constitute 95% of its income. The UN is dedicated to offering Kuwait the technical expertise and support necessary to achieve the objectives set forth in Vision 2035, while also bolstering Kuwait’s regional and international stature, a role it has played since the 1960s, predating Kuwait’s UN membership. Following productive dialogues with Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Supreme Council for Planning and Development, the UN has reached an agreement on the Strategic Corporate Framework. This pending agreement lays out a four-year collaboration strategy that aligns with Kuwait’s National Vision 2035 and the Sustainable Development Goals. Within this framework, various UN agencies will implement targeted projects and programs to advance these goals.

What specific initiatives is the UN is undertaking in Kuwait to support education, human rights, and security?

Various UN agencies are collaborating with government bodies to provide consultancy, advice, and capacity building on a large scale. For instance, in the fight against drug trafficking, UN agencies IOM and the Drugs and Crime Organization engage with Ministry of Interior in enhancing capacity and coordinating with other relevant entities. UNICEF works with the Ministry of Education on 1,000+ Days initiative to prepare parents and children for school, aiming to ensure a healthy childhood and successful educational experience. With Kuwait’s election to the Human Rights Council for 2026, it will work closely with the UN Office for Human Rights to enhance and promote human rights both within Kuwait and worldwide. Kuwait’s commitment to international peace and security is evident in its significant contributions both regionally and globally. As a dedicated humanitarian donor, Kuwait collaborates with agencies such as UNHCR, UNICEF, and IOM to support those affected by natural disasters and conflicts. Furthermore, Kuwait is a strong supporter of the people in Gaza, and in 2015, the UN Secretary-General honored the Amir of Kuwait as a humanitarian leader.

Considering the critical importance of environmental sustainability, what are some of the ongoing UN-supported environmental and climate action initiatives in Kuwait?

The UN-Habitat, with funding from Kuwait, is spearheading a project aimed at mitigating desert storms in Iraq to reduce their impact on Kuwait. This initiative now also includes other affected countries such as Iran and Qatar. Additionally, UN-Habitat is promoting urban greening through a green initiative that revitalizes public spaces in collaboration with the municipal government and local stakeholders. Concurrently, Kuwait is focusing on diversifying its economy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This strategy aligns with Kuwait’s long-term vision and the Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular emphasis on attracting foreign investment and encouraging the private sector’s expanded involvement.

What initiatives would you recommend for the UN office in Kuwait?

I look forward to the UN intensifying its engagement in digital transformation and renewable energy projects. Artificial Intelligence presents a special chance to amplify investment outcomes. Moreover, there are advancements in developing capabilities for empowering women, especially in partnership with UN Women. Kuwait is notable for its significant efforts in supporting people with disabilities, excelling in facilitating educational access, inclusion in the workplace, and participation in the economy.