Kuwait Raises Blood Money Compensation to 20K Dinars

Kuwait is making significant strides in strengthening its legal framework. The Council of Ministers, under the leadership of Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, has approved an important amendment to Article 251 of the Civil Code. This change is aimed at ensuring the value of legal blood money better reflects its true worth, in line with both Islamic Sharia law and modern economic realities.

The amendment comes in response to the financial and economic shifts observed in recent decades. As Al-Sumait explained, the previous estimation of blood money no longer aligns with the actual value prescribed by Sharia law. To address this, the blood money amount has been increased to 20,000 dinars. This move aims to better preserve life and reinforce the principle of fair compensation in cases of unlawful death.

A key aspect of the amendment is the removal of a provision that allowed for the adjustment of blood money by decree. This provision had proven ineffective, creating instability in the legal system. Going forward, any changes to the blood money amount will follow a clear and structured legislative process, ensuring that adjustments are made in a way that reflects both real-world developments and the country’s commitment to maintaining legal stability.

This change marks another step in Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to enhance its legislative system. The government remains committed to upholding justice, protecting rights, and ensuring the legal framework aligns with both Islamic principles and the evolving economic and social landscape of the country.

Kuwait’s decision to raise blood money to 20,000 dinars underscores the nation’s commitment to providing fair compensation while maintaining a robust and stable legal system. It’s a move that reflects a balance between tradition and modernity, ensuring justice for all.