Kuwait introduces new law to regulate places of worship

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Kuwait city: Kuwait has issued a new decree-law outlining a complete legal framework for the establishment, licensing, and management of places of worship throughout the country. The new restrictions seek to guarantee religious freedom while prohibiting the use of religious sites for political or non-religious purposes.

According to the law, no place of worship can be erected, operated, enlarged, refurbished, or demolished without the necessary government permit. Managers of existing religious facilities have been given up to six months to meet the new legal criteria.

The edict also outlaws the use of places of worship to promote political objectives, sectarianism, extremism, or violence, as well as direct involvement with foreign diplomatic or governmental organisations without prior authorisation. Religious gatherings outside specified worship venues will require prior consent if they may disrupt public order or traffic.

A specialised committee made up of officials from various government entities will monitor the law's licensing and implementation. According to officials, the revisions aim to safeguard the sacredness of houses of worship while encouraging tolerance, moderation, and religious concord.