2nd generation non-nationals in Kuwait: Contradictions between host country policies and aspirations of migrants

The last three decades have seen a consistent rise in the relative percentage of non-nationals residing in the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including Kuwait. This increase has resulted from two main factors, the continued demand for skilled as well as unskilled workers, and an exacerbation of the stock of workers and their families residing in the Gulf for lengthening periods of time. Migration policies do not allow non-nationals to become Kuwaiti citizens, except in very rare circumstances. Yet, a sizeable percentage among non-nationals, 18 %, consist of 2nd generation residents, born and raised in the country.

A survey of the achievements, aspirations and plans of 2nd generation non-nationals was conducted by the author in May-December, 2012, focusing on high school students in 11th and 12th grades, and on working men and women. 1000 students and 250 working persons born in Kuwait and who lived at least half their life in the country were included.

This paper analyses the contradictions between government policies to reduce the percentage of non-nationals in the population and labor force and the aspirations and plans of the 2nd generation non-nationals to live and work in the country for the next several years.