A court in Kuwait has transferred custody of two children from their mother to their father after determining that the children had been used to promote products on social media, a practice the court found had negatively affected their education and overall welfare.
The ruling, reported by local media outlet Al Anba, is being viewed as a significant decision highlighting the importance of protecting children’s best interests in the digital age.
Court Prioritises Children’s Welfare
In its judgment, the court stated that custody decisions should always focus on safeguarding the wellbeing, education and healthy development of children.
Judges concluded that the mother’s use of the children in commercial social media promotions had adversely impacted their studies, prompting the court to reconsider the existing custody arrangement.
Custody Awarded to the Father
Following its assessment, the court ruled that the children’s father was capable of providing a safe, stable and supportive family environment.
Custody of both children was therefore transferred to the father, who will assume responsibility for their care and upbringing in accordance with Kuwaiti law.
Shared Responsibility Remains Important
The court emphasised that changing custody does not diminish the responsibilities or authority of either parent.
In its reasoning, the judges noted that effective parenting depends on cooperation between the legal guardian and the custodial parent, particularly in matters relating to the children’s health, education and behaviour.
The ruling also stressed the importance of keeping both parents informed about significant developments affecting the children’s welfare.
Growing Focus on Children’s Digital Privacy
The decision reflects increasing attention across the Gulf region to children’s rights and privacy on social media platforms.
Courts and authorities have increasingly examined cases involving the online publication of children’s images and their participation in commercial content, particularly where such activity may affect their safety, privacy or education.
The latest ruling underscores that, in custody disputes, courts will continue to place the best interests of children above all other considerations, including the commercial use of their image or online presence.
