International Scientific Collaboration to Study Climate Change and economic transformation in Kuwait

World of Opinions for Public Opinion Research – Kuwait announces the commencement of fieldwork for data collection as part of a climate study project in Kuwait. The project is being conducted in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania, the University of California, Berkeley, and the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Studies Center at Kuwait University.

The study aims to explore the perspectives of Kuwaiti citizens and expatriates, including Arab and non-Arab residents, on the impacts of climate change and economic transformation plans within the framework of Kuwait Vision 2035. It seeks to assess public awareness of environmental challenges, the level of support for international cooperation to address climate change, and the reduction of dependency on oil. Additionally, it focuses on understanding the societal implications of economic transformation, including empowering women and creating job opportunities in non-oil sectors.

While many studies have examined climate change and economic diversification in Kuwait, this subject has not been addressed through public opinion surveys that include the views of both Kuwaiti citizens and residents in general. This gives the current study significant importance as it seeks to understand the attitudes and opinions of Kuwaitis and residents regarding contemporary environmental, social, and economic issues.

By providing accurate and comprehensive data, the study aims to assist policymakers in developing strategies that reflect societal needs and expectations, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of Kuwait’s national sustainable development plans. Furthermore, the study offers an opportunity to evaluate public awareness of climate and economic challenges, analyze the level of support for international cooperation, and assess efforts to reduce reliance on oil as a primary income source. This contributes to national efforts toward achieving a diversified and sustainable economy, making the study an essential tool for both decision-makers and researchers.

The study team includes: Dr. Sarah Bush (University of Pennsylvania), Dr. Amanda Clayton (University of California, Berkeley), Dr. Ameera Alhassan (UN-Habitat Program Manager for Kuwait and GCC states), Prof. Dr. Yaqoub Youssef Al-Kandari (Director of the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Studies Center), Dr. Samir Abu Rumman (General Supervisor of World of Opinions, Member of the Scientific Committee of the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Studies Center at Kuwait University, and Visiting Research Fellow at George Mason University)

The study involves conducting two focus groups with Kuwaiti citizens—one for men and the other for women. This phase has already been completed. Following this, a survey will be carried out to collect data from a sample of Kuwaiti citizens and Arab and non-Arab residents.

The survey will be conducted during May and June 2025 and will not require any personal data.

We kindly ask for your cooperation with the research team to ensure the success of this project.