In a statement issued on October 14, 2026, Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, hailed Kuwait’s re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council as a significant diplomatic achievement that reflects the country’s standing in the international community. The bishop extended his congratulations to Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, the government and the people of Kuwait. He noted that the outcome demonstrates recognition of Kuwait’s humanitarian efforts and its foreign policy based on moderation, balance, dialogue and respect for human dignity.
Berardi praised the environment of tolerance and freedom of worship in Kuwait that supports coexistence among different religions and cultures. “As the Catholic Church present and serving on the blessed soil of Kuwait, we deeply appreciate the spirit of tolerance, mutual respect, and freedom of worship that we enjoy in this country, which strengthens fraternal coexistence among citizens and residents of different religions and cultures,” he said. The bishop added that safeguarding human rights and human dignity constitutes a shared responsibility, and he looked forward to Kuwait advancing dialogue and cooperation through its renewed council membership.
Kuwait secured 173 votes in the secret ballot conducted by the UN General Assembly, earning the second-highest tally among the 15 nations elected to the council for the 2027-2029 term. Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Tareq Al-Banai described the result as a renewal of international confidence in the country’s foreign policy of moderation and adherence to the UN Charter. The re-election allows Kuwait to build on its contributions during the current 2024-2026 term, which included support for resolutions on humanitarian issues and the protection of aid workers.
Al-Banai indicated that Kuwait would maintain its focus on the rights of women, children and people with disabilities while advocating for civilian protection in armed conflicts and access for humanitarian assistance. The ambassador stressed that the Human Rights Council must operate without politicization or double standards to preserve its credibility. Kuwait’s bid was backed by the Asia-Pacific Group, with diplomatic efforts coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s missions abroad contributing to the strong vote total.
Headquartered in Geneva, the Human Rights Council consists of 47 member states elected for three-year terms by the General Assembly according to equitable geographical distribution. Kuwait is serving its second consecutive term on the body after the current membership concludes at the end of 2026, a development that aligns with its emphasis on multilateral cooperation. The council’s mandate includes addressing human rights situations worldwide and issuing recommendations to improve protections.
Berardi closed his message with prayers for Kuwait’s leadership and people. “We look forward with confidence and hope to the State of Kuwait continuing, through its renewed membership in the Human Rights Council, its constructive role in promoting dialogue and international cooperation and in defending human dignity and fundamental human rights without discrimination of any kind,” the bishop stated. He affirmed that the Catholic Church in Kuwait values the country’s role in fostering peace and mutual respect.
