Kuwait’s economic reforms face domestic opposition

When Kuwait’s ruling emir opened the parliamentary session last year, he urged lawmakers not to allow higher oil prices to hold back economic reforms needed “to protect future generations”.

But changing the culture of entitlement is difficult for such a wealthy country.

Kuwait has the most open political system in the Gulf. The emir retains strong control, appointing a cabinet led by the ruling family. But the lively parliament frequently questions ministers and block legislation. In August, the government said that the Emir Sheikh…