Reforming financial guardianship in Kuwait's Civil Code: lessons from international and regional frameworks.

This article examines Kuwait's legal framework regarding the age of majority and financial guardianship, highlighting that the current age of majority is 21, which is higher than the international standard of 18. Kuwaiti civil law mandates that minors' inherited assets are managed by a patriarchally determined guardian—typically the father or paternal grandfather—while mothers are not automatically recognized as equal financial guardians despite women's increasing educational and professional roles. The article discusses inconsistencies within Kuwaiti law, such as the recognition of individuals under 18 as children and the ability of 18- to 21-year-olds to work and enter contracts but not independently manage finances. Comparative analysis with other jurisdictions, including England and Wales and GCC countries like Saudi Arabia, reveals trends toward lowering the age of majority and expanding guardianship rights. The article concludes by recommending legal reforms to reduce Kuwait's age of majority to 18, incorporate financial literacy education, and grant mothers equal status as financial guardians to better align with international civil law standards and support youth empowerment and economic participation.