Under the slogan “We Protect the Nation,” the Ministry of Interior has launched a nationwide campaign to introduce the public to Kuwait’s new anti‑drug law, which comes into effect on December 15.

This law arrives at a pivotal moment, marking a major transformation in Kuwait’s anti‑drug framework through unprecedentedly strict penalties, enhanced prevention policies, and strengthened mechanisms for treatment and rehabilitation.

With the Public Prosecution joining the awareness efforts and institutional participation expanding, Kuwait appears to be entering a new phase defined by firmness, deterrence, and community protection. Here are 10 essential facts about Kuwait’s new anti‑drug law:

 We Protect the Nation

1. A new law entering into force on December 15

Decree‑Law No. (159) of 2025 has become the strongest legislative framework in Kuwait’s history for combating drugs. It includes 84 articles across 13 chapters, covering preventive, therapeutic, punitive, and regulatory aspects.

2. “We Protect the Nation” — a new era of awareness and prevention

A national awareness campaign launched in two phases:

• Phase 1: Introducing the public to the new law
• Phase 2: Continuous year‑round education on the dangers of drugs and psychotropic substances

3. Public Prosecution enters the scene with a clear message: “The era of leniency is over”

Under the direction of Attorney General Counselor Saad Al‑Sufran, the Public Prosecution launched a wide campaign through its platforms to clarify the strict penalties and end any tolerance toward traffickers and users.

  Strict Penalties and Tight Controls  

4. Deterrent penalties reaching the death penalty

The law imposes penalties up to execution or life imprisonment, with fines reaching 2 million dinars, covering offenses such as smuggling, trafficking, manufacturing, and cultivating narcotic plants.

5. Strict regulation of medical substances with psychotropic effects

No medication or psychotropic substance may be dispensed without an approved medical prescription. Violators face severe legal consequences.

6. Full confidentiality for addiction‑related reports

Addiction complaints are treated with complete confidentiality. Revealing the identity of the person reporting exposes the violator to legal accountability.

 Strengthening Youth Protection

7. Shutting down illegal trafficking spaces

Recent actions include seizing unlicensed farms and confiscating quantities of narcotics as part of a broader effort to combat illegal activities.

8. A confidential hotline for reporting

The number 1884141 is dedicated to receiving reports with full confidentiality and without revealing the identity of informants.

9. Special focus on youth and teenagers

Media campaigns target teenagers, young adults, and parents to raise awareness and strengthen prevention before harm occurs.

Legislative Step to Enhance Public Safety

10. A legal and human‑rights milestone that strengthens human security

The National Human Rights Bureau affirmed that the new law is a qualitative step toward protecting society and aligning with international standards.

The legislation also confirms strict penalties for all forms of drug‑related crimes, including exploiting minors, running criminal networks, forcing others to consume drugs, and planting substances with the intent to incriminate.