Qatar's Government Communications Forum launched its second edition Wednesday under the theme 'Enhancing Innovation and Impact in Government Communications.’ The two-day event brings together the nation's leading communications and media experts, alongside key decision-makers from across Qatar’s diverse communications landscape.

The forum serves as a strategic platform to explore innovative communication strategies and technological advancements in line with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy, particularly in cultivating a knowledge-based economy, reinforcing the nation's digital leadership and ensuring government communications systems remain at the forefront of global innovation.

Attending the opening day were HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Subaie, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, Minister of Social Development and Family, HE Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, Minister of Municipality. The forum also welcomed and Eng Khalid bin Ahmad Al Obaidli, Chairman of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) and Eng Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Theyab, President of KAHRAMAA (Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation).

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communication Office (GCO), highlighted the forum's growth into a leading platform that unites Qatar's communications sector representatives while fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange. He noted how the forum, which began as a means to enhance communication between government and semi-government communications leaders, has transformed into a dynamic platform where decision-makers and experts from diverse entities collaborate to build a more integrated communications sector.
"As the digital landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, we have embraced the transformative power of effective content creation and digital engagement. Through active collaboration, we have cultivated strategic partnerships with digital platforms, encouraging them to establish their presence here in Qatar. These initiatives not only elevate our government communications framework but further solidify Qatar's position as a thriving hub for content creation and an emerging leader in technological innovation.”

The opening day featured the 2024 Government Communications Awards ceremony, celebrating exceptional achievements across the sector. Winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges representing eight prominent government and semi-government entities, who made their final decisions two days prior to the event.

Presiding over the awards ceremony, Sheikh Jassim presented the Interactive Communication Award was jointly presented to the Ministry of Interior and KAHRAMAA, while the Communication Campaign Award recognised the excellence of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change alongside Qatar Rail. The Newsroom Award was presented to the Ministry of Social Development and Family and Qatar Central Bank, with the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau receiving distinction for the Government Branding Award.

This year’s expanded program features comprehensive workshops and expert-led panel discussions with leadership from across government and semi-government sectors. Alongside a showcase of global platforms, a showcase of initiatives and projects from various government and semi-government entities, the forum also showcases an exclusive pavilion dedicated to strategic GCO initiatives. These displays reflect the GCO’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s government communication system.

Held annually, the Government Communications Forum continues to serve as a catalyst for advancing Qatar’s communication sector, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and developing innovative communications strategies. By integrating cutting-edge technology with international best practices, the forum strengthens Qatar’s ability to deliver impactful messaging and expand its global media presence, positioning the country as a leader in government communications.