Kuwait After Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah

On September 29, Kuwait announced the passing of Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah. Serving as foreign minister between 1963 and 2003, prime minister from 2003 to 2006, and, finally, emir since 2006, Sabah al-Ahmed played a defining role as a statesman, a humanitarian, a mediator, and the father of modern Kuwait.

What will be seen as Sabah al-Ahmed’s legacy in domestic, regional, and global politics? With Nawaf al-Ahmed al-Sabah assuming the role of emir, what are the likely implications of this leadership transition? Who are the main contenders in the line of succession to be Kuwait’s next crown prince, and how might they differ in approaching Kuwait’s domestic challenges and international role?

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