Being stateless in a state

By Chidi Emmanuel

Sitting quietly in a shanty house in Sulaibiya, 62-year-old Mohammed couldn’t contain his tears as he narrated his life and family ordeals as a bedoon (stateless resident). “You can see where and how we are living,” he said as he opened a small cubicle where he has been living with his family for over 12 years. In a narrow alleyway near his house, Mohammed’s children (aged 5 to 12) could be seen…

Men getting battered too

By Chidi Emmanuel

It is 9.48 pm and Kadri A is still sitting in his Mishref office with hands on his cheeks. “We close by 8.30 pm, but I am still here, trying to avoid trouble at home,” he said in dismay. Initially, Kadri didn’t want to narrate his ordeal, but after much pressure and persuasion, he opened up.

“I know you will not believe me if I tell you this. My wife is my problem. We have been married for four years now. The first year…

Consanguineous marriage - pros and cons

By Chidi Emmanuel

Traditionally in the Middle East, people prefer to marry those with whom they share tribal, clan or lineage affiliations. Cousin marriage is common in Kuwait and the region – encouraged by familial, social and economic ties. It is considered to increase family cohesion, minimize marital burdens (in particular, the financial burden on the husband), assure…