Search - World Summit for Social Development

Multilateral co-operation is essential to promote digital development and ensure all countries benefit from technological and artificial intelligence (AI) advancements, the secretary-general of the Digital Co-operation Organisation (DCO) has said.Deemah al-Yahya made the remarks during a panel discussion, held as part of the World Summit AI Qatar 2025.She stressed that traditional models of multilateralism are no longer adequate in an era of deep digital interconnectivity."National economies are more interconnected than ever before, requiring broad collaboration to reduce fragmentation in digital policies," al-Yahya said.She added that strengthening countries' digital competitiveness requires turning investments into shared solutions, improving digital infrastructure, implementing unified policies, and building human capacity.The official clarified that digital sovereignty does not conflict with co-operation; rather, collaboration enhances states' ability to protect their national interests.The DCO – which comprises 16 member states representing 800mn people, 70% of whom are youth – is developing innovative co-operation models such as public-private partnerships and shared intellectual property.These initiatives enable countries with limited resources to access advanced technologies without large investments.Al-Yahya also highlighted the importance of involving youth, women, and local communities in digital policy-making.She pointed to the DCO initiative We-Elevate, which has supported 127 women-led projects in Rwanda over 18 months, creating 800 jobs and contributing around $40mn to the country's GDP.On digital security, she said the organisation recently adopted a four-year strategy to enhance member states' resilience, ensuring sustainable economic and social growth despite increasing geopolitical, environmental, and economic risks.Al-Yahya cited incidents exposing global digital vulnerabilities, including disruptions to submarine cables in the Baltic and Red Seas, widespread power outages in Europe, and airport operations halted due to technical failures, emphasising the urgent need for secure infrastructure and sustainable policies.She concluded that building an inclusive and thriving digital economy requires moving from data and recommendations to tangible actions and impact measurement, ensuring a fair and efficient digital transformation across nations. 

Her Excellency Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani took part in the opening segment of a high-level dialogue organized by the State of Qatar in partnership with the Principality of Monaco, the International Organization for Migration, and Mission 89. The event was held on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development under the theme "Copenhagen to Doha: Tackling Vulnerability and Exploitation Linked to Sport - Supporting Safe and Inclusive Pathways for Youth to Realize Their Dreams."In her remarks, Her Excellency explained that the dialogue comes at a critical time, following the adoption of the "Doha Political Declaration," in which world leaders reaffirmed the transformative role of sport as a tool to promote inclusion and social cohesion, advance sustainable development, and integrate sport into national policies. She noted that the declaration emphasized investment in sports infrastructure, youth engagement programs, and expanding inclusive access as key pillars for achieving the three overarching goals of eradicating poverty, ensuring decent work, and promoting social inclusion.She added that the dialogue aims to shed light on practices that undermine the integrity and social purpose of sport, stressing that these challenges require collective action and innovative solutions to eliminate exploitation in the sports sector, including addressing frameworks to combat human trafficking through sport, protecting children and youth, and fostering safe, inclusive environments that nurture the values of discipline, teamwork, and fair play among future generations.Her Excellency reaffirmed that Qatar firmly believes sport lies at the heart of the social development agenda. She described sport as an effective tool for promoting peace, sustainable development, and building bridges between cultures and peoples, as well as for encouraging healthy lifestyles, preventing violence, creating decent job opportunities, empowering youth, and combating crime and drug abuse.HE Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN emphasized that sport represents a core pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, which seeks to advance human development, empower young people, promote social inclusion, and encourage healthy living. She pointed out that Qatar has made substantial investments in sports infrastructure and has become a global hub for hosting major international sporting events.Her Excellency also highlighted Qatar's commitment to advancing the United Nations agenda on sport, noting that the country, together with the Principality of Monaco, submits every two years a draft resolution entitled "Sport: a global accelerator of peace and sustainable development." Qatar also supports the work of the Group of Friends on Sport for Development and Peace, which seeks to strengthen multilateral cooperation in this field.Her Excellency concluded by underscoring that Qatar's continued efforts reflect its firm commitment to global partnerships and international cooperation to promote safe and inclusive pathways for youth in sports by ensuring their protection from exploitation and empowering them to fulfill their potential in a secure environment. She affirmed Qatar's dedication to ensuring that sport remains a force for upliftment and protection of children and young people around the world.

Qatar Charity in co-operation with Nigeria’s Katsina State Government, has implemented a variety of income-generating projects, economically empowering 160 individuals, including women, orphans, and vulnerable groups.The initiative aims to restore dignity, create opportunities, and enable beneficiaries to achieve economic independence. The implementation of these projects coincides with the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to take place in Doha from November 4 to 6. The summit aims to reaffirm global commitment to social development, address existing gaps, accelerate efforts to eradicate poverty, promote full employment and decent work, and achieve social inclusion.The income-generating projects included the distribution of 100 sewing machines, 20 passenger tricycles, 20 cargo tricycles, and 20 grinding machines, benefiting individuals from across the state.Beneficiaries were nominated by the state government and verified by Qatar Charity using a rigorous process that prioritised vulnerability, business skills, and readiness. Speaking at the ceremony, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, described the initiative as more than material support, emphasising its role in restoring dignity and creating opportunities for vulnerable citizens. He urged beneficiaries to use the items wisely to start small businesses, generate income, support their families, and improve their livelihoods through hard work and discipline.“The empowerment items are more than material support – they are tools for transformation and steps toward economic independence,” governor Radda stated. Governor Radda acknowledged Qatar Charity Nigeria’s critical role in humanitarian work across Katsina State and Nigeria. “Your work is planting seeds of change, and we are deeply grateful,” he said, pledging to expand such initiatives to empower every orphan, widow, and vulnerable person in the state.Assem Abu al-Shaer, country director of Qatar Charity’s Nigeria office, emphasised the transformative impact of the empowerment items, noting that each piece of equipment will help beneficiaries generate income and create opportunities for others.

The State of Qatar affirmed that respecting, promoting, and protecting human rights constitutes a fundamental pillar of its policy, and that human development and the protection and promotion of human rights are among its priorities. The State of Qatar explained that it spares no effort to support efforts aimed at consolidating concepts and culture of human rights by adopting an approach based on the rule of law, transparency, justice, and human dignity. This came in a statement delivered by the Second Secretary of Qatar's Permanent Mission to the United Nations (UN), Sheikha Al Maha bint Mubarak Al-Thani, before the General Debate of the Third Committee of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, held at the UN headquarters in New York. The Second Secretary at Qatar's Permanent Mission to the UN noted the country's pride in its current membership in the Human Rights Council for the period 2025-2027, and in the position it has built over the years as an effective and credible partner at the international level. She affirmed that Qatar will continue its effective and positive role in this important international forum, and its constructive cooperation to enable the Council to continue its vital role in promoting and protecting human rights. She highlighted the serious human rights violations faced by the brotherly Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip, which is witnessing an unprecedented humanitarian disaster due to the ongoing Israeli aggression, causing a catastrophic humanitarian, social and economic situation. She also pointed out that Qatar continues to dedicate its efforts and diplomatic endeavors to achieving an end to the war and human suffering, and continues its unwavering policy of solidarity with the brotherly Palestinian people, providing them with various forms of support, and making every effort to achieve security and stability in the region. Sheikha Al Maha stressed that Qatar is confident that the Second World Summit for Social Development, to be held in Doha on November 4–6, will constitute a pivotal opportunity to advance many of the topics being discussed within the framework of the Third Committee, including accelerating international efforts to promote sustainable social development, eradicate poverty, enhance productive employment, and build inclusive societies that enable the meaningful and full participation of all, including women, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. She stressed that Qatar looks forward to welcoming participants from all over the world to the conference. She pointed out that thanks to the State of Qatar's wise and clearly defined policy to enhance the role of women and enable them to make significant contributions, Qatari women continue to achieve inspiring and commendable accomplishments in various fields, noting that they are today active partners in the country's developmental renaissance. Sheikha Al Maha referred to the launch of the Ministry of Social Development and Family's national strategy for the period 2025-2030, under the slogan 'From Welfare to Empowerment,' which represents a qualitative shift that goes beyond providing support, but rather focuses on empowering target groups through specialized training programs and encouraging social entrepreneurship. She emphasized that Qatar places family at the heart of social development, and noted that the country has adopted policies and programs aimed at supporting families through an integrated and comprehensive approach, and has sought from an early stage to highlight family issues and give them the attention they deserve. She also explained that Qatar has made significant strides in promoting and protecting children's rights, and has taken numerous legislative and executive measures and procedures in various fields and sectors, in line with its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Second Secretary at Qatar's Permanent Mission to the UN indicated that Qatar has strengthened its close partnership with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict by providing support for the office's core resources, as well as hosting the Office's Analysis and Communications Centre in Doha.

Great-power competition, the troubling rise of xenophobic nationalism, existential environmental threats, and the ongoing Covid-19 onslaught present major global governance challenges. Against this backdrop, world leaders have tasked United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres with recommending steps to advance the far-reaching commitments contained in last year’s so-called UN75 Declaration, in which the General Assembly pledged to ensure “the future we want.” The secretary-general’s much-anticipated report, Our Common Agenda, is due this September, and it would benefit from a follow-through vehicle to weigh the report’s recommendations and deliberate on and adopt his best ideas. We therefore support the proposal for a World Summit on Inclusive Global Governance involving a wide range of participants. Since Guterres addressed the General Assembly’s 75th anniversary meeting last September, he has repeatedly emphasised the need for “networked multilateralism,” in which “the United Nations family, international financial institutions, regional organisations, trading blocs, and others work together more closely and more effectively.” And on April 24 this year, International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, he called for “inclusive multilateralism that draws on civil society, business, local and regional authorities, and others, and shares power more broadly and fairly.” Given the continued strains on the multilateral system, and the UN’s need to tap talent and resources from beyond its 193 member-state governments to solve urgent global problems, Guterres’ appeal could not be timelier. But despite the newfound hopes of rolling back the Covid-19 pandemic, and growing calls by world leaders to reinvest in the rules-based international order, much remains to be done. In particular, multilateralism must be embraced widely to counter the impact of some political leaders’ exclusionary rhetoric, which amplifies public anxieties and undermines the rules and institutions of global cooperation. These leaders often wrongly exploit public anxieties by blaming others for their countries’ troubles, or for their own ineffective, insular approaches to inherently transnational problems. The world cannot reverse these growing stresses placed on the multilateral system with recommitments to vague principles, or to policy goals that are then not met. Fortunately, the secretary-general’s call for a new kind of networked and inclusive multilateralism is thus prompting a healthy and consequential rethink of global governance norms, policies, institutions, and operations. The roadmap for implementing such reforms should include a comprehensive intergovernmental and multi-stakeholder preparatory effort that culminates in the World Summit in 2023. Such a gathering would aim to help the UN system keep pace with current challenges and opportunities regarding peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights. By drawing on the talents of governments and non-governmental groups around the world, this summit would seek to overhaul the global governance system and usher in a new collaborative compact of institutions, polities, and people. A recent Stimson Center report, Beyond UN75: A Roadmap for Inclusive, Networked & Effective Global Governance, provides further details of this strategy. Global coalitions of states such as the Alliance for Multilateralism, and civil-society networks including the Coalition for the UN We Need and the Together First campaign, can help provide the leadership, creative ideas, and diplomatic skills needed to fulfil the promise of this much-needed endeavour. Our own organisations, the Group of Women Leaders Voices for Change and Inclusion and Club de Madrid, also remain steadfast in their support of a robust and meaningful agenda to realise the UN75 Declaration follow-through agenda. In response to the socioeconomic problems triggered by Covid-19, Club de Madrid has proposed that the UN secretary-general’s Our Common Agenda report call for a second World Summit for Social Development to reinvigorate the social components of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Focusing on people’s needs and providing a strong, united response on health care, education, social protection, and decent work is more essential than ever to ensuring the UN’s continued relevance. Beyond addressing urgent needs, the UN must also continue to safeguard the “equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small,” as proclaimed by the Group of Women Leaders in their recent “Multilateralism by Women” statement. We strongly believe that the UN – the world’s only truly universal organisation – has never been more vital to all people and countries. But it needs renewed imagination, vigorous adaptation to changing global circumstances, and emboldened advocates from within and outside governments. As the world prepares to mark UN Charter Day tomorrow, we call upon international leaders gathering at this September’s annual high-level General Assembly meetings to heed the recommendation of 50 former government ministers and senior UN officials and support “a dedicated intergovernmental process” to “strengthen and reform the … institutional machinery of the UN system.”  By mobilising diverse actors worldwide – including academics, practitioners, activists, and policymakers – the international community can ensure that “the future we want” becomes a reality. – Project Syndicate ? María Fernanda Espinosa, a former president of the UN General Assembly, is a former foreign minister and defence minister of Ecuador.  ? Türk, a former president of Slovenia, is President of Club de Madrid.

Qatar’s efforts to host a sustainable FIFA World Cup in 2022 were discussed during the 2020 Green Sports Alliance Virtual Summit. Engineer Bodour al-Meer, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy’s (SC) Sustainability & Environment Senior Manager, provided insight into Qatar’s sustainability projects during the summit’s keynote session – a fireside chat titled ‘Looking Ahead to the Next Decade of Regenerative Sporting Events’. Al-Meer said: “Qatar is a small and rapidly developing country. Hosting the World Cup has accelerated our national development plans set out in our National Vision for 2030. Our vision for our country is to have harmony between economic growth, social development and environmental protections. The environmental section of the Qatar 2022 Sustainability Strategy is perfectly aligned with our national goals. “Our five strategic environmental focus areas are green building, carbon neutrality, air pollution, water management and waste minimisation,” continued Al Meer. “Two highlights of these are that all our stadiums are certified using the GSAS [Global Sustainability Assessment System] green building scheme. We will also deliver a fully carbon neutral event.” Moderated by Nihal Mohamed al-Saleh, Qatar Foundation’s Project Manager for Sustainable Cities, the discussion also featured FIFA’s Head of Sustainability & Environment, Federico Addiechi, who spoke about the collaboration between world football’s governing body and the SC. “Qatar 2022 is going to be the first in so many dimensions. It’s the most compact of any FIFA World Cup since the first one in 1930 in Uruguay, with everything basically happening in one city,” said Addiechi. “In itself, that compact nature is going to help us in our efforts to reduce emissions from travelling while ensuring a friendly and inclusive experience for everyone attending the event. We are proud of the positive collaboration with the SC so far and of our joint commitment and work to delivering a more sustainable FIFA World Cup in 2022.” When asked about what makes Qatar 2022 a unique sustainability story, al-Meer emphasised the benefits it will provide the country from a legacy standpoint once the tournament concludes. “As a Qatari national, making sure the FIFA World Cup leaves a legacy for my country is very important,” al-Meer said. “We started to plan for the legacy [of the tournament] as early as the bid phase back in 2010 and our programmes are now bearing fruit. We have detailed legacy plans for each new building we construct, including our stadiums. Perhaps even more important are the social legacy programmes we are delivering. These programmes will improve our society and include sustainability awareness capacity building for youth through Generation Amazing, our football for development initiative. I think the legacy [strategy] for a host nation for mega events is going to become even more important in the future as a result of Qatar 2022.” (Qatar2022.qa)

QNA/Doha HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser attending the opening of the 4th Wise Summit. Also attending the summit as guests of Sheikha Moza are (left to right) Irina Bokova, Unesco Director General, Amina Erdogan, First Lady of Turkey and Tatjana Josipovic, First Lady of Croatia. PICTURE: AR Al-Baker HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, has underlined that education is a right of all human beings as it represents, indisputably, the environment in which the future, the development and common dreams are formulated. Addressing the opening ceremony of the fourth edition of the World Innovation Summit for Education (Wise) at the Qatar National Convention Centre here yesterday, Sheikha Moza said: “If we strengthen the fact that education is everyone’s right, then we will eliminate many social, economic, political and security problems that are the results of the failure to realise this human right”. HH Sheikha Moza noted that despite the international efforts in the field of education, there are still serious deficiencies that require serious co-operation to accomplish change. In mid-September, Sheikha Moza said, the world leaders in the United Nations, renewed their pledge to give all the children of the world primary education by year 2015. “This requires a comprehensive international effort, whose result would move us in the future from addressing this issue to confronting other challenges”. “And here we annually meet under the umbrella of Wise to set a culture of innovation in education, and renewal in innovation, while we’re all aware that education is a field that combines all issues. Education can lead countries to prosperity or to ruin... It is through education that the collective mind of the community is formed... It is with education that we draw the features of the future: a future that should always be new and innovative... With education, we choose either progress or backwardness... Civilisation or lagging behind...  “With education, we establish either the values of peace or the values of war. And the historic value of your annual conference stems from all the above,” Sheikha Moza said. She noted that it is not an emergency occasion for meeting, but rather an annual gathering that becomes busy, throughout the year, with the projects and topics of innovation in education that the participants have agreed upon. Sheikha Moza stressed that “the need for innovation in how to meet the challenges of education and stimulate the spirit of innovation requires a qualitative work that can meet our need for quality education, just as sustainable development requires sustainable education and exceptional problems require exceptional solutions”.  HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser meeting Amina Erdogan, First Lady of Turkey, at the 2012 Wise Summit in Doha. PICTURE: Aisha al-Musallam She said that perhaps one of Wise’s pioneering features lies in the support and generalisation of innovative and scalable projects applicable to various environments within an innovation network based on co-operation and continuous co-ordination.  Sheikha Moza underlined that the project of “Brac” institution” in Bangladesh, whose founder Fadel Hasan Obeid has won the Wise Prize in 2011, is considered as a good example of the support of innovative solutions in order to meet such conditions. “There marshy areas impeded the possibility of establishing schools until the Brac institution provided an innovative solution that might be called the “floating schools” through gathering students in classrooms on boats that were prepared for the purposes of education and transportation. “Last month when I visited one of these schools, to have a close look on the project, I was astonished by the unlimited human capacity to challenge difficulties and tame nature conditions,” Sheikha Moza said. “That’s the role of Wise, which we look forward to expand in creating a relationship of communication and knowledge between the tough issues and those who are capable of innovating effective solutions,” she underlined. Sheikha Moza noted that Wise currently heads towards a new social contract through a number of programmes; “however, the completion of the change in education dictates a moral and practical obligation on everyone to contribute to these efforts that will not succeed if you do not believe in real and effective partnership. “Each one of us, starting from his own country or institution, can proceed with this change in the context of his quest to instill a culture of innovation in education; however, the act of knowledge in general and the creation of the innovation culture in particular require a collective action of co-operation and co-ordination in order to achieve the common goals,” she said. Sheikha Moza invited the participants to attend today the launch of a new initiative that would contribute in putting practical solutions to send students who are deprived of education back to school.  

HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani with HE the Deputy Premier Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah and heads of states and governments of GECF Member Countries during the 1st Gas Summit here yesterday. Pictures: Noushad Thekkayil QNA/Doha HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani opened yesterday the First Summit of Gas Exporting Countries at the Doha Sheraton Hotel. The event was attended by HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Emiri Diwan Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah. The Emir delivered a welcome address in which he expressed profound thanks to dignitaries and representatives of member states for accepting the invitation to attend the First Summit of the Gas Exporting Countries’ Forum, which has become one of the most important forums that bring together decision-makers, experts and specialists to discuss issues related to natural gas industry and trade and to thrash out ways of its advancement in pursuit of promoting the status of this resource as a vital source of clean energy in the world. HH the Emir said that fossil fuel still represents the largest share of the total energy mix consumed globally. This situation will probably continue for the foreseeable future. Hence, the increasing challenges facing this industry are not confined only to meeting the growing demand for energy but they extend to include the environmental, social and economic aspects in both the exporting and importing countries, due to the growing integration of energy with these aspects and their mutual impact on each other. HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani with HE the Minister of Energy and Industry, Dr Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada during the 1st Gas Summit “These renewable and escalating challenges urge us to look for a variety of innovative solutions which are economically viable in a way that guarantees the interests of consumers and producers together,” HH the Emir noted. HH the Emir added that the utilisation of hydrocarbon resources to achieve the economic and social development, has a negative impact on the environment, but in contrast natural gas has a advantage over all other types of fossil fuel since it is one of the most important clean energy sources. This advantage has led in recent years, to its increasingly widespread use in the electric power generation, petrochemical and metallic industries, as well as household consumption. The Emir underlined that the widespread use of natural gas did not lead to reducing of disparities between oil prices and gas prices on the basis of the equivalent thermal power, but on the contrary these discrepancies have increased of late.  HH the Emir highlighted that the forum was established to protect the interests of gas exporters along the lines of protection and support given by various parties to coal and oil industries. “Therefore, we have to act seriously to realise these interests without leaving a passive impact on the interests of gas consumers,” HH the Emir said. HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani with Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika It is illogical that discrepancies between oil prices and gas prices increase in favour of the first despite the thermal and environmental advantages enjoyed by the second. Therefore, gas exporters should not give up their fair demand for gas prices equivalent to oil prices and to explore all means to fulfil this demand, HH the Emir underlined. “Here we do not speak about controlling production but about other means such as upgrading and supporting the technologies that expand the areas of using gas, and advocating the use of gas at international and regional forums, influencing the laws that support gas exploitation, enacting laws that take into account the environmental advantages of gas, exchange of information on markets and technical and financial aid and promotion of new markets,” HH the Emir said. For instance the expansion in the use of the liquefied natural gas has furnished an ideal solution for the problem of lack of proximity between gas consumption markets and production areas, as is the case in the markets of East Asian countries, as well as the problem of heavy dependence on one source to fulfil consumption needs, as is the case in the European markets. Natural gas has also contributed to opening new markets in China and India, and increased the consumption of gas in Europe and elsewhere, HH the Emir said. In return, the rise in the significance of the role of LNG has necessitated a substantial increase in the volume of capital investments in all stages of its production, processing, and export, as well as a fundamental change in the nature of the contracts governing the operations of gas buying and selling. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the long-term strategic partnership relations among all parties related to these stages, HH the Emir added. HH the Emir highlighted three main points: First, the synergy and collaboration of all members of this Forum are essential for the realisation of its goals. Non commitment on the part of some members will have a negative impact on the interests of all members particularly the bigger ones. Second, HH the Emir reassured gas consumers that the protection of exporters interests does not mean at all that it would be at the expense of its consumers interests. “We call for constructive dialogue with them through consultation and exchange of information for the sake of developing gas and its usage for the benefit of all parties.” Third: It has been reported before that gas importers are members of a forum for the rich, and we have endeavoured as much as possible to change this by opening new markets, “we do not want to hear that the Forum of Gas Exporters is a forum for major exporters. The Forum not only welcomes but also encourages any gas exporter who wants to join,” HH the Emir said.  HH the Emir underlined that the National Vision of the State of Qatar 2030 was based on several pillars including the accomplishment of economic and social development, “so we endeavour to develop our economy to be a diversified competitive economy and more consistent with the requirements for preserving and protecting the environment from pollution. This is what would be achieved by several means, including the optimal utilisation of natural gas as a clean energy source”, HH the Emir said. “We have no doubt in the ability of the member states of this Forum to protect their interests and pursue their important role in examining the ways of developing global gas markets, and to play an active role in developing mechanisms of operation of this market,” HH the Emir underlined. HH the Emir noted that it is clear that there are increasing questions about energy security in general and natural gas in particular. HH the Emir said participants in the summit would provide valuable insights by discussing relevant topics and proposing ways of strengthening the status of the gas industry. HH the Emir hoped that this summit would be a good opportunity to explore further co-operation and co-ordination prospects between member states in order to upgrade the gas industry. In conclusion, HH the Emir wished the audience a fruitful summit and a pleasant stay in Doha.

Qatar’s Shura Council is taking part in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)’s 153rd Assembly and 218th Governing Council meetings in the city of Arusha, the United Republic of Tanzania.The gatherings are being held under the theme “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all”.  The Qatari delegation is headed by HE the Deputy Speaker, Dr Hamda bint Hassan al-Sulaiti, who also serves on IPU’s Executive Committee.Speaking before the assembly, HE Dr al-Sulaiti reemphasised that the State of Qatar, led by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, believes in good governance as a vehicle for achieving fair and sustainable development and a more tight-knit and stable community.  The State of Qatar is moving diligently toward advancing its legislative and institutional frameworks, reinforcing digital transformation, enabling various community segments to contribute to development and policy-making, in addition to supporting education and development initiatives, combating corruption, and promoting integrity on the regional and global stages, she said.  She added that the theme of the current session is closely tied to the core of parliamentary work, noting that strengthening good governance, empowering local communities, advancing inclusion, building trust, and ensuring opportunities for all aren’t standalone objectives, but rather an integrated framework that lays the groundwork for social justice and sustainable development.  HE the Deputy Speaker acknowledged parliaments as a linchpin in turning these tenets into reality through legislation, oversight, representation, and resource allocation, while ensuring the meaningful engagement of all segments of society, particularly young people, women, persons with disabilities, and those most in need.  Dr al-Sulaiti underscored the importance of ensuring that communities are partners in crafting decisions that affect their present and future, explaining that this thrust aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 16 and the Doha Declaration adopted by the United Nations General Assembly during the Second World Summit for Social Development hosted by the State of Qatar.  The draft resolution on inclusive social development and the rights of persons with disabilities represents a consequential step toward turning international commitments into practical legislation and policies that advance social justice and social development, she underlined.  Her Excellency weighed in on the nexus between development, stability, security, and peace, reemphasising that protecting civilians, respecting international law, and preserving the ceasefire are key to development. She recalled the fallout from conflicts and escalation in the region and the ensuing risks to civilians, critical facilities, navigation, energy supplies, and humanitarian and food needs.In addition, Dr al-Sulaiti underscored the importance of following up on the implementation of the emergency item submitted by the State of Qatar and the Arab Group, with the support and participation of several geopolitical groups and parliaments and adopted by the 152nd IPU Assembly.  The item, she recalled, calls for combined parliamentary efforts to preserve ceasefire agreements and support peacebuilding in the Middle East and other regions, thereby strengthening the role of parliaments in protecting civilians, preventing the further escalation of conflicts, and supporting pathways toward just and lasting peace.  As part of the effective engagement of the Council’s delegation in several meetings and committees held alongside the assembly, Her Excellency took part in the meetings of the IPU Executive Committee, the Bureau of Women Parliamentarians, the Forum of Women Parliamentarians, and the Governing Council.  The delegation also participated in the co-ordination meetings of the Gulf legislative councils and the Arab and Islamic Groups, while Shura Council Member Dr Sultan bin Hassan Aldosari participated in a closed informal consultation on pathways to peaceful coexistence in the Middle East, as well as meetings of the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights.  For his part, Engineer Ahmed bin Hitmi bin Ahmed al-Hitmi took part in the co-ordination meeting of the Asia-Pacific Group, the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, and meetings of the Standing Committee on Peace and International Security, with Yousef bin Ali al-Khater participating in meetings of the Governing Council, the Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, and the Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs.  Running until Friday, the assembly debates avenues for strengthening good governance, empowering local communities, advancing inclusion, building trust, and ensuring opportunities for all, along with an array of parliamentary and international issues, while the standing committees consider issues related to peace and international security, sustainable development, democracy and human rights, and United Nations affairs.  The agenda covers a draft resolution on inclusive social development for all, alongside parliamentary strategies to promote the rights and empowerment of people living with disabilities, as well as requests for the inclusion of an emergency item. 

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani stressed that Qatar is marking this year's anniversary of the founder, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, amid comprehensive achievements across all fields under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.The Prime Minister said the National Day slogan, "With You It Rises, From You It Awaits," underscores the country's confident steps toward the future, strengthened by the spirit of unity and belonging that binds the leadership, loyal citizens, and residents of Qatar. He noted that the slogan reflects the nation's expectation that all its people will contribute to sustaining Qatar's role as a leader in sustainable development, social welfare, and economic prosperity, while preserving the country's religious and national values, rooted in its Arab and Islamic heritage, and engaging creatively with global cultures and civilizations in the service of humanity.In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), the PM said that National Day is an enduring occasion to renew loyalty to the country's wise leadership, draw inspiration from the sacrifices and achievements of past generations in defending the nation, and work diligently to continue the path of progress, development and growth. He stressed that successive generations would remain faithful to the principles laid down by the founder, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, ensuring that Qatar remains an oasis of security, peace, prosperity and noble human values.He said Qatar continues its development journey and is consolidating its leadership across sectors with clear vision and firm resolve, noting that the national economy has maintained strong growth while state institutions continue to translate Qatar National Vision 2030 into tangible outcomes, thanks to the wise directives of His Highness the Amir, particularly in energy, infrastructure, education, health care, social welfare, economic diversification, human capital development and innovation.In this context,he emphasised that the state and its institutions are moving steadily toward achieving the goals of Qatar's Third National Development Strategy for 2024-2030, which was developed under His Highness the Amir's guidance to realise the country's strategic priorities for this phase.On Qatar's efforts to strengthen regional and international security and stability, the PM said the country, through its active partnership with the international community, is doing everything it can to promote peace and international security and to advance sustainable development for all humanity. He added the founder had championed dialogue and peace, and that Qatar has followed this inherited path, with mediation becoming a firmly established principle enshrined in the Constitution, rather than merely a political option.He added that, through its quiet diplomacy and firmly established global credibility, Qatar has become a model in efforts to resolve complex conflicts through dialogue and peaceful means, as well as to prevent them through preventive diplomacy. He pointed to Qatar's mediation aimed at ending the war in the Gaza Strip, its positive contribution to facilitating a peace agreement between the Republic of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and its broader mediation efforts extending from Latin America to Africa and Asia.He said that Qatar's approach to mediation, together with its hosting of major global events such as the Second World Summit for Social Development, the first formal meeting of the United Nations General Assembly to be held outside New York or Geneva, underscores the country's firm commitment to peace, international solidarity and multilateral cooperation, and reflects its standing as a strategic partner of the United Nations. He added that these efforts have strengthened Qatar's global stature and its active role at both the regional and international levels.He also noted that Qatar's official bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games highlights the country's advanced position on the international sports stage and its organisational readiness, demonstrated by its widely praised hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.The PM noted that Qatar's international distinction also extends to its ranking at the top among Middle East and North Africa countries in the 2025 Global Peace Index as well as its placement eighth worldwide and first in the Arab world in the category of the safest and most socially peaceful countries. He said that these comprehensive achievements drive us to give even more for the present and future of the beloved nation, under the banner of the wise leadership. 

The first consultative session to prepare the National Human Rights Action Plan (2026-2030) convened in Doha Sunday. The session was attended by His Excellency the President of the Supreme Judiciary Council and President of the Court of Cassation Dr Hassan bin Lahdan al-Hassan al-Mohannadi, His Excellency the Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ibrahim bin Ali al-Mohannadi, His Excellency the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, His Excellency the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi, Her Excellency the Minister of State for International Co-operation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad, and Her Excellency the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) Maryam bint Abdullah al-Attiyah. Also attending were several officials and representatives of government agencies and national institutions, as well as a top tier of experts and representatives of civil society. The session is intended to weigh in on the key themes of this action plan, identify challenges and gaps, and listen to the attendees' views and feedback that would literally help prepare a holistic plan that reflects the community's needs and aspirations. **media[382705]** Overall, the session features deliberations that highlight the priorities for the upcoming period within the national framework for human rights. In her opening remarks, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chairperson of the national committee for preparing the National Human Rights Action Plan Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad welcomed the participants, affirming that their participation underscores Qatar's enduring commitment to the values of human dignity, justice, equality, and the rule of law, values that essentially shape the essence of Islamic Sharia, Qatar's Permanent Constitution, and Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV2030). The preparation of this plan is neither a procedural action nor a tradition the world simply intends to pursue, but rather a national vision that expresses the collective will to bolster the system of rights and freedoms and the principles that place humans at the core of development and its aims, HE al-Misnad underscored. She added that from this position the plan, which needs invaluable contributions in terms of preparation and execution, represents a practical road map that primarily aims to transform values into legislation and policies and principles into measurable realistic practices, and at the end of the day human rights become a guiding approach in planning and crafting public policies in a variety of fields. **media[382706]** The move, she adds, comes in the wake of accelerating challenges the world is witnessing today in terms of climate change and digital transformation, as well as the resulting complexities that affect people’s lives and daily affairs. HE al-Misnad noted the Doha Political Declaration issued at the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025, which underscores the inextricable link between achieving social justice and reinforcing respect for human rights. The declaration, she said, calls for a rights based approach to shaping and advancing social policies, upholding the rule of law and good governance, ensuring unencumbered access to justice, and building effective institutions. It also emphasizes broadening community participation for all stakeholders so that development remains human centered, affirming that social protection is a right, not a largesse. This plan represents an opportunity to translate the substance of the Declaration at the national level and to embody the nation's commitment to social justice and the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs anchored in human dignity, justice, and solidarity both domestically and within the international community, she points out. She further noted that the committee responsible for drafting this plan is laser focused on ensuring that the drafting process is grounded in five core principles, chiefly the universality, indivisibility, complementarity, and interdependence of human rights. This is literally the approach that binds their promotion, protection, and fulfillment to the shared religious, human, constitutional, and international values that underpin them, and to transparency and openness in sharing information and assessing the current landscape with all its achievements and challenges, and to broad based partnership and community participation through the engagement of state institutions, civil society, the private sector, academia, the media, and all stakeholders, reaffirming the principle of leaving no one behind, she outlines. Al Misnad stressed that institutional integration is essential to ensure the effective execution of the agreed upon actions, supported by continuous follow up and periodic evaluation to refine performance and safeguard the sustainability of the gains that have been achieved. In addition, Her Excellency expressed her profound belief that these five principles serve as a springboard for crafting a realistic, actionable, and impact sustained National Plan, one that stands in lockstep with QNV2030, which places the human being at the core of development, and with the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which foregrounds good governance, human empowerment, and the preservation of social justice within a balanced national framework. The aspiration is for this plan to emerge as a unifying document that captures the shared vision of both the nation and society and becomes a national role model rooted in rights based planning, Her Excellency noted. She elaborated that the success of these consultative sessions hinges on engagement, constructive criticism, unencumbered reflections, inspiring ideas, and insightful proposals. This collective input, she highlights, will flip the script from mere textual commitments to a results driven plan whose impact is concrete in people’s lives, not confined to rhetoric. Al Misnad extended her profound gratitude to all partners from ministries, governmental and national bodies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector for their support and their engagement that is capped by success. Her Excellency further extended her profound gratitude to global partners for their steadfast engagement and for lending depth to this national endeavor, affirming that she looks forward to the outcomes of their constructive dialogue that confidently redound to the benefit of the cherished nation and valued society. Through collective effort, human rights are firmly anchored within the nation and the future of the coming generations is safeguarded, she stated. The assigned committee underscored that convening this session forms part of a participatory approach that reinforces transparency and ensures the broad inclusion of all relevant stakeholders in shaping the plan. This aligns with the Permanent Constitution of Qatar, QNV2030, the Third National Development Strategy, and international human rights standards. The committee noted that the session reconvenes Monday to continue discussions on the remaining pillars of this plan. It adds that additional thematic and forward looking sessions are held to guarantee the engagement of all segments of society in the formulation process, a step intended to ensure that no one is left behind and that the effort is capped by success in every conceivable way.

The Qatar Chamber hosted "The high-level Arab Event on Persons with Disabilities, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation," from Nov. 6 to 8, 2025.The event featured the "Third Session of the Living Independently Initiative for Persons with Disabilities" and the "Arab Exhibition for Productive Families" held on the sidelines of the "Second World Summit for Social Development."The event was held by the Union of Arab Chambers and the General Secretariat of the Arab League - Social Affairs Sector (Department of Social Development and Policies, Technical Secretariat of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs), in coordination with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and in collaboration with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and the Arab Labour Organisation.Speaking at the opening of the third session of the Living Independently Initiative, First Vice Chairman of the Qatar Chamber, Mohammed bin Twar Al Kuwari, stressed that the initiative represents a valuable opportunity to enhance the integration of persons with disabilities into the labour market, and to highlight the importance of supporting productive families while contributing to the growth, development, and sustainability of their enterprises.He added that Qatar pays great attention to persons with disabilities and seeks to enhance their effective participation in various areas of social, economic, and educational life, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. He emphasized that Qatar has adopted an integrated system of national legislation and policies that guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities, support their integration into society, and enable them to work and contribute to development.Al Kuwari also underscored the Qatar Chamber's commitment to empowering productive families, promoting small entrepreneurship, and supporting initiatives that enhance the productive capabilities of families and home-based businesses. He noted that the Chamber strives to provide platforms that allow these families to showcase and market their products both locally and internationally.He further emphasised the Chamber's encouragement of integrating persons with disabilities into suitable jobs within the private sector, noting that this aligns with the efforts of other national entities working to promote inclusion and equal opportunity in the country.Attendees toured the exhibition, which showcased various products made by people with disabilities, including accessories, handicrafts, silverware, wickerwork, traditional clothing, ceramics, and other handmade goods. The exhibition featured the participation of 25 exhibitors from several Arab countries.