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The Ministry of Education and Higher Education announces that all classes in public and private schools will be conducted remotely on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, in support of the State’s efforts to ensure the success of the Second World Summit for Social Development 2025, which the State of Qatar is hosting.All administrative and teaching staff will also work remotely on that day, with lessons delivered through the approved online learning platforms and schedules.

With generous support from Qatari people, Qatar Charity continues its humanitarian efforts to support the most vulnerable groups in northern Syria. The 'Our Children's Safety' project in partnership with the Syrian Forum in Azaz City aims to enhance the protection of children affected by crises and provide a safe and supportive environment for them and their families. The project's launch coincides with the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha next week. The topics to be discussed include comprehensive policies that promote fair opportunities for all and accelerate efforts towards social inclusion. The project benefits more than 3,900 children, families, and caregivers annually through a range of integrated activities, including psychosocial support sessions, awareness programmes on child protection issues, and training sessions for mothers and fathers, in addition to providing case management services for children most at risk. Mohammed Barakat, deputy director of Social Affairs and Labour in Aleppo, stated during the opening ceremony: "Many thanks to Qatar Charity, the Syrian Forum, and the generous supporters in Qatar for establishing such centres." Karam Ali, director of QC's office in Turkey, said the project is aimed at protecting children's rights and improving their psychological and social well-being in crisis areas, in line with its humanitarian principles of childcare and mitigating the impact of conflict on communities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a celebration on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN) and the organization's international day, which falls on Oct. 24 annually, as part of celebrating the existing cooperation between the State of Qatar and the UN.In this context, Her Excellency Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi affirmed that over the past eight decades, the UN has been the cornerstone of the multilateral international system and a comprehensive platform for promoting international peace and security, advancing sustainable development, and protecting human rights around the world.In her speech during the ceremony, Her Excellency said that with the celebration of this distinguished legacy, the State of Qatar reaffirms its deep appreciation for the vital role played by the UN and renewed its firm commitment to the principles upon which the organization was founded.Her Excellency explained that this celebratory occasion represents an opportunity to review achievements and to explore the prospects for future joint action to confront the renewed challenges in the world, which today require strengthening international cooperation and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter and the values ​​of solidarity, partnership, and mutual respect, for a better future for humanity.HE Minister of Social Development and Family expressed the State of Qatar's pride regarding its close and strategic relationship with the UN and its various bodies and agencies, noting that this partnership is based on solid foundations of cooperation and coordination on many priority issues.The State of Qatar's commitment to being an active partner in supporting the UN's efforts in the areas of education, health, humanitarian action, development, women and youth empowerment, promoting peace, and resolving conflicts through peaceful means, reflects its unwavering commitment to its role as a responsible member of the international community, Her Excellency pointed out.The 80th anniversary of the UN comes at a time when the State of Qatar is preparing to host the Second World Summit for Social Development in November, in partnership with the UN, HE explained. This summit will represent a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the social dimension in achieving sustainable development and promoting policies that ensure social justice and human dignity, especially in light of the multiple challenges the world is witnessing, including increasing poverty, social inequality, and profound demographic and economic changes.Qatar's hosting of the Second World Summit for Social Development reflects the state's deep belief in the importance of international cooperation in addressing social challenges and expanding the scope of social justice, thus achieving comprehensive and sustainable development, Her Excellency said. She also noted that the State of Qatar looks forward to continuing to strengthen its partnership with the UN and working towards a future of peace, justice, and development for all.On behalf of HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, Her Excellency Director of International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sheikha Hanouf bint Abdulrahman Al-Thani said that this occasion is the culmination of a long journey of collective action to serve international peace and security, and to promote development, justice, and human rights around the world.In her speech during the ceremony, Her Excellency highlighted the UN's pivotal role in addressing global challenges, and referred to the close partnership between the State of Qatar and the organization and its specialized institutions.Since joining the UN, the State of Qatar believed in the importance of multilateralism and joint international action, and has made supporting the efforts of the UN a fundamental pillar of its foreign policy, based on its firm commitment to its international responsibilities, Her Excellency pointed out.HE Director of International Organizations Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Qatar is preparing to host the Second World Summit for Social Development in November, in partnership with the UN. This reaffirms the importance of social development as a cornerstone for achieving peace, stability, and prosperity. This summit also represents a renewed opportunity to unify international efforts to enhance social cohesion, confront marginalization, and achieve social justice for all.HE explained that the summit comes at a time when the world is witnessing profound transformations and intertwined challenges, requiring all to strengthen multilateral cooperation and activate international mechanisms to achieve sustainable development goals, especially in light of the economic, environmental, and humanitarian crises witnessed globally.The 80th anniversary of the UN's founding represents a moment of contemplation of the achievements made despite challenges, and a moment of anticipation of a more united and just international path, she added.Her Excellency said that today, the State of Qatar renews its firm commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and to working together for a world built on dialogue and understanding, in which human dignity is preserved, and policies are formulated on the foundations of sustainable development, social justice, and mutual respect.For her part, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed said that with the celebration of UN Day, which marked 80 years since the UN Charter came to be, through which nations chose cooperation over conflict and declared that peace, justice and dignity are the right of everyone, everywhere.She said in a video address broadcast during the ceremony that the UN Charter remains the compass, but what the world envisions has not yet been achieved, especially with the emergence of new conflicts, growing inequalities, and the emergence of modern technologies that are reshaping the world. She also noted that the UN must be prepared for what lies ahead.She added that with five years to go until 2030, the world knows that we are not where we should be, and that the Sustainable Development Goals remain unfinished business. She explained the urgent need to accelerate the pace and intensify action, by addressing inequality, reforming the international financial architecture, raising climate ambition, achieving a just energy transition, and ensuring that women and youth have the power to lead change.Deputy Secretary-General of the UN noted that all UN teams in all countries are working to advance this work and bring the UN closer to the people it serves. Her Excellency noted that, after 80 years, the world still looks to the UN as a source of hope, and therefore, there must be continued work aimed for a world of peace and opportunity and dignity for all.In turn, HE Representative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for Gulf States and Yemen, and Director of its Doha Office, Salah Khaled, said the State of Qatar hosts 13 UN agencies, with more than 300 staff working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, support Qatar National Vision 2030, and respond together to regional and global challenges.In his speech during the ceremony, His Excellency added that their partnership with the State of Qatar encompasses education, innovation, climate resilience, social inclusion, labor mobility, cultural heritage, and other areas. He emphasized that Qatar has been and will remain a key partner in transforming the UN's principles into a tangible reality.His Excellency added that the State of Qatar, through the call launched by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, was the initiator of the establishment of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, which was celebrated for the first time in 2020 by the Education Above All Foundation, UNICEF, and UNESCO.HE pointed out that Qatar, through the Qatar Fund for Development, recently provided a $20 million grant in 2023 to support the efforts of the Education Cannot Wait initiative, a global fund established by the UN to support education in emergencies and protracted crises.His Excellency praised Qatar's diplomatic mediation efforts and its success in leading negotiations aimed at ending conflicts and preserving peace, while advocating for human rights, and described these efforts as commendable.

On my first day in office as Colombia’s president just over 15 years ago, I met with the leaders of four indigenous peoples in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – the Kogui, Arhuaco, Wiwa, and Kankuamo. As we stood together in the shadow of a magnificent mountain range next to the Caribbean Sea, the wisdom they imparted transformed how I viewed my responsibilities as a leader. It also changed how I saw our collective duty as transitory inhabitants of this increasingly bruised planet. I was given a wooden baton – a symbol of power – to remind me to strive toward two goals: peace among our citizens after 50 years of conflict, and peace with nature. The indigenous leaders warned me that our relationship with the natural world had been harmed, that nature was angry, and that we would suffer the consequences. Two weeks later, La Nina hit Colombia with devastating floods, and I spent the first two years of my administration supporting those affected and preparing for the next natural disaster. We now live in a world threatened by shattering storms – both physical and ideological. Just recently, flooding killed at least 1,006 people in Pakistan, with 2.5mn reportedly evacuated from Punjab and Sindh, regions that were also hit by colossal flooding in 2022. Disturbing attacks on multilateralism and the post-World War II institutional foundations of human rights are making matters worse. Our entire value system, it seems, is under siege. But as The Elders (a group of former leaders that I currently chair) recently stated, fatalism and cynicism are never options, no matter how relentless the crises we face may be. Multilateralism was developed precisely for times like these – to guide us through disagreements and disasters, with no exceptions. This November, two major summits aimed at tackling global problems will take place. The first is the second World Summit for Social Development. The first such summit 30 years ago brought together an unprecedented number of world leaders, marking a new chapter for multilateralism in the service of human development. The other summit next month, the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, will address the existential crisis of global warming. As president of Colombia, I saw firsthand that when disaster strikes, the poor are always hit the hardest. That is why we created various institutions to co-ordinate assistance following the 2010 floods. Now, it is essential that all countries take heed of climate warnings and scale up their own resilience and adaptation policies. A timely new report from researchers at the University of Oxford and the UN Development Programme shines a spotlight on this issue. It finds that almost 80% of multidimensionally poor people – whose deprivations are measured beyond low incomes – across 108 developing countries, totaling 887mn individuals, live in regions exposed to at least one climate-related hazard (such as extreme heat, drought, flooding, or air pollution). The report also confirms that people in lower-middle-income countries confront more overlapping climate hazards than those in low-income or upper-middle-income countries. And while upper-middle-income countries have relatively fewer poor people, this cohort is still exposed to air pollution and flooding in particular. Such findings underscore the need for a just energy transition. To that end, Colombia introduced Latin America’s first carbon tax in 2016. Now, in the run-up to COP30, The Elders are calling for G20 countries to use their financial advantages to “turbocharge the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement and the Global Biodiversity Framework.” At COP29 last year, world leaders committed to provide $300bn to fund such efforts, even though the total needed is closer to $1.3tn. Given the size of this gap, we welcome the International Court of Justice’s recent advisory opinion ruling that states are legally responsible for climate harms, particularly those caused by the fossil-fuel industry. I am reminded of a moment in 2011 when two civil servants in my government, Paula Caballero and Patti Londono, came to me with the idea of putting sustainability at the heart of development. Caballero and Londono planted the seed that eventually grew into the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I was happy to do what I could to support that agenda, and thanks to the multilateral framework that was in place ten years ago, the UN unanimously adopted the SDGs. The joy in that room will stay with me for the rest of my life. But the party is over. While flashes of hope remain – just this year, countries adopted a historic marine conservation treaty – the planet is hurting more than ever. Last month in New York, the Planetary Guardians presented the Planetary Health Check 2025 report, which confirmed that seven of nine planetary boundaries, including ocean acidification, have already been transgressed. Together, these nine boundaries form Earth’s operating system: the interconnected life-support processes that must remain within safe limits to keep humanity safe and the natural world resilient. With the Planetary Health Check warning of accelerating deterioration and the growing risk of reaching dangerous tipping points, we urgently need to improve our understanding of where and how both the planet and its people are suffering. That means reinvigorating efforts to support the interconnected agendas of climate action and poverty reduction. When I left office in 2018, I met again with the indigenous leaders who had entrusted their hopes to me. I tried to return the baton. But to my surprise, they asked me to keep it, and then articulated a new principle that the international community would do well to consider. They spoke of the spiritual bond between humans and nature: nothing can be taken without first asking for permission and giving something in return. We break this bond at our peril. Today, many connections are broken – between peoples and between humans and the planet. Our task in the years ahead is to restore them. – Project Syndicate Juan Manuel Santos, a former president of Colombia, is Chair of The Elders and received the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize.

The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global education and development organisation, through its Silatech Programme, in partnership with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), successfully hosted yesterday a global youth townhall titled “Digitally Powered Economic Journeys.”The townhall brought together more than 500 participants, including youth, development practitioners, and partners from across the globe to take stock of youth economic empowerment programming, with a lens of exploring the impact of the digital era on youth employment, including self-employment. The townhall explored how the digital era is reshaping skills, employment, and economic opportunities for youth worldwide, with a particular focus on marginalised youth. Participants shared experiences, lessons, and recommendations on how technology can be harnessed to expand decent work and inclusive growth, especially in the Global South.The session examined the impact of rapid digital transitions and technological advancements on youth employability, entrepreneurship, and access to livelihood opportunities. Discussions also addressed the need for youth economic empowerment programmes to be designed in light of the impacts of technology and AI on the future of work. Within this context, ILO delivered a presentation on the progress made towards Sustainable Development Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth.Mr Mana Al Ansari, Executive Director of EAA’s Silatech Programme, delivered the opening remarks, emphasising the need for partnerships that prepare young people for a digital future.“The digital era is impacting the rules of work and opportunity. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that young people, particularly those in fragile and underserved contexts, are equipped with the skills needed to respond to these rapidly changing times and to thrive in this new economy. Through forums like this, we listen to youth voices and translate their insights into action that advances inclusive and sustainable employment,” he said.Mr. Francesco d’Ovidio, Director of the ILO Office in Qatar, added a quote:“Digital transformation holds great potential to create new employment opportunities for young people - but only if it is decent, inclusive, and rights-based. As technology reshapes labour markets, our collective task is to ensure that young people globally are able to thrive in this changing world of work.”The townhall started with several keynote speeches from youth beneficiaries of EAA and ILO programs, as well as from key partners including Qatar Foundation (QF) Alumni. The highlight of the townhall was a moderated discussion that provided youth from 58 countries a platform to reflect on the opportunities and challenges of the digital era on employment prospects and the future of work. The townhall focused on hearing youth’s voices and recommendations for more effective programming and youth employment policies.“As a refugee, I often felt that opportunities were limited, so I saw this training as a real chance to build skills that could open new doors for me.” Seba Ajaj, a young beneficiary who participated in the ILO Job Search Clubs programme implemented in Jordan under the PROSPECTS Partnership programme funded by the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.Closing the event, the organisers reaffirmed that key takeaways from the Youth Townhall will contribute to EAA’s and ILO’s strategic high-level event on taking stock of youth economic empowerment programming at the upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development to be held in Doha in November 2025, where youth perspectives will inform discussions on employment and decent work.For more information about EAA Foundation, visit www.educationaboveall.org

A new session in the Shura Council's historic journey begins tomorrow, Tuesday, marking another milestone in more than five decades of national parliamentary development. The Council has consistently enjoyed the support and guidance of the wise leadership, reflecting its vital legislative and oversight role and its close cooperation with the esteemed government in advancing Qatar's renaissance, sustainable development, and the aspirations of its citizens for a dignified and prosperous future.The next phase of the Shura Council's successful journey — which spans over half a century — begins with the first regular session of the second legislative term, corresponding to the 54th annual session. This new session will be held with a developmental vision and comprehensive institutional preparedness, in line with the Council's evolving role in national governance.His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani issued Amiri Decision No. 42 of 2025 on October 9, appointing members of the Shura Council. The decision took effect from the date of issuance and was published in the Official Gazette.On the same day, His Highness the Amir received Their Excellencies the members of the Shura Council at the Amiri Diwan, where His Highness the Amir welcomed them and wished them success in performing their duties. HH the Amir emphasized the Council's role in supporting the State's efforts to achieve sustainable development and to further the comprehensive renaissance witnessed by Qatar across all fields.For their part, the members of the Shura Council expressed their sincere thanks and appreciation to HH the Amir for his continued trust and support. They affirmed their commitment to work with national responsibility and dedication to serve the homeland and citizens, in line with Qatar's vision and the aspirations of its people for continued progress and prosperity.The Shura Council, as formed under HH the Amir's decision, consists of 49 members. Article 77 of the country's Permanent Constitution was amended to state that: "The Shura Council shall consist of no fewer than forty-five members, and the appointment of members shall be issued by an Amiri Decision."The new session follows the constitutional amendments that were unanimously approved by the Council last November and subsequently endorsed through a popular referendum, which saw an approval rate of 90.6% of valid votes. This milestone represents a genuine embodiment of national unity, the strengthening of the social fabric, and the consolidation of the principles of Shura deeply rooted in Qatari society, paving the way for continued growth and achievement.The 2024 constitutional amendments stand among the most significant accomplishments of the previous legislative term. They included several amendments, additions, and deletions to the Constitution, all designed to serve the State's supreme interests and reinforce the values of justice, equality, and civic responsibility among all members of Qatari society.Among the major achievements of the Shura Council in its previous term was the approval of its internal regulations, which govern its operations, define procedures for sessions, decision-making, and committee work, and enhance the Council's overall efficiency.The new internal regulations, consisting of 244 articles divided into eight chapters, bolster the Council's legislative and oversight authority and define the mechanisms for exercising its powers in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws.The first legislative term (2021-2025) witnessed extensive parliamentary activity, including 138 regular sessions, two extraordinary sessions, 312 committee meetings, the discussion of 84 draft laws, 22 requests for discussion, 25 proposals, 21 hearings, and 185 internal and external parliamentary engagements, as well as 417 bilateral meetings.These figures reflect the substantial institutional efforts of the General Secretariat and the Council's expanding role in legislation, oversight, and parliamentary diplomacy.Meanwhile, the General Secretariat of the Shura Council has finalized all technical and organizational preparations for the launch of the first regular session of the second legislative term tomorrow. The preparations included equipping the main hall and meeting rooms with the latest technology, ensuring the aesthetic and functional readiness of the Council's facilities, and confirming full technical and logistical preparedness.In this regard, His Excellency Secretary-General of the Shura Council Nayef bin Mohammed Al Mahmoud stated in a meeting held on Sunday with representatives of the local media that the opening session of the new term will be followed by a procedural session, including the swearing-in and the reading of Amiri Decree No. 98 of 2025, inviting the Shura Council to convene its first regular session of the second legislative term, corresponding to the 54th annual session. The session will then proceed with the election of the Speaker and Vice-Speaker.He added that the General Secretariat has tested all technical and logistical systems, and that legal and technical teams are fully ready to ensure the smooth conduct of the session.His Excellency Al Mahmoud emphasized that, with more than fifty years of experience, the Council is fully prepared for this new phase and continues to operate with high professionalism and discipline to ensure a successful start befitting its prestigious stature and legislative and oversight responsibilities.Thanks to its active participation in various regional and international parliamentary forums, the Shura Council has attained a prominent position and enjoys wide respect and recognition. It currently holds several key positions, including membership in the Executive Committee of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) — the highest UN-affiliated parliamentary body — as well as membership in several of its standing committees.His Excellency Al Mahmoud highlighted that the General Secretariat plays a vital role in supporting Council members and enabling them to effectively perform their parliamentary and diplomatic duties. He underlined that external parliamentary work has evolved beyond symbolic participation to become a strategic activity aimed at achieving tangible outcomes that serve national interests and strengthen the Council's international partnerships.As a result of its active role in parliamentary diplomacy, the Shura Council has established distinguished relations with counterparts in other countries. These ties, reinforced through mutual visits between the general secretariats, enable the exchange of parliamentary experiences and expertise, including legal and technical knowledge.In this context, one of the most prominent upcoming parliamentary events to be hosted by the Council is the Parliamentary Forum, which will be held in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha this November, in cooperation with the United Nations. Additionally, the Council will host the meetings of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly in December and will also participate in the summit of heads of GCC parliaments, which will later be hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain.Such relationships, mutual visits, and various parliamentary events reflect the growing international confidence in the Shura Council's experience, its leading institutional role, and its prominent presence at both the national and international levels, guided by the visions and messages contained in the speeches delivered by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the opening of the Council's sessions.As part of its continuous modernization and development efforts, the General Secretariat of the Shura Council has begun implementing a digital transformation initiative within its comprehensive institutional plan and its 2025-2030 strategy, which is set to launch at the end of this year.The General Secretariat has developed this strategy based on Qatar National Vision 2030 and the key messages from the speeches delivered by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the openings of the Shura Council's sessions. The aim is to enhance efficiency, digitize procedures, develop human capacities, and improve administrative and technical performance in line with the aspirations of the coming phase.The important and distinguished role-played and consistently upheld by the Council in promoting the image of the State of Qatar at regional and international forums is widely recognized. The Council also articulates the country's steadfast positions and defends issues of concern to the Arab and Islamic nations, foremost among them the Palestinian cause.Throughout its successive sessions, the Council has demonstrated its vital legislative role in serving the interests of the Qatari people and meeting their aspirations through the body of legislation and laws it discusses, approves, and amends within the framework of the rule of law and in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar.Building on all these achievements, members will continue to carry out their duties in the new legislative session, keeping in mind the interests of citizens and the higher interests of the nation, under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.The history of the Shura Council dates back to 1972, when the amended Interim Basic Law was issued on April 19 of the same year to regulate the structures and institutions of the modern state, including the Shura Council, which initially had 20 members.

The State of Qatar affirmed its commitment to strengthening its international partnerships within the framework of international cooperation and multilateral action, and to support the efforts of developing countries in implementing and achieving the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals. This is achieved by directing partnerships with UN agencies to provide development and humanitarian assistance to countries facing development challenges and disasters beyond their capabilities, in addition to partnerships with the UN to implement the outcomes of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries (2022-2031). This came in the State of Qatar's statement delivered by Second Secretary of Qatar's Permanent Mission to the UN Talal Abdulaziz Al Naama before the General Debate of the Second Committee during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, at the UN headquarters in New York. The Second Secretary of Qatar's Permanent Mission to the UN explained that developing countries face many challenges that hinder the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, noting that the world is witnessing wars and armed conflicts that have caused humanitarian disasters, displacement, and the destruction of infrastructure and livelihoods, in addition to the multiple risks to the lives of the most vulnerable groups. He added that the world is also witnessing the devastating effects of climate change and the resulting shocks and disasters that threaten the lives of millions of people. There are also economic challenges represented by the debt burden, scarcity of development financing, difficulty with borrowing, and the digital divide. Al Naama added that the State of Qatar welcomed the adoption of General Assembly resolution 79/323, entitled the Sevilla Commitment, last August. This resolution affirmed the need to continue reforming international financing structures and improving their effectiveness and flexibility to address current and future challenges and crises, and to strengthen national efforts to achieve economic and social development by creating a favorable international economic environment and effective means of implementation that encourage comprehensive and sustainable economic growth, and to recognize the right to development so that no one is left behind. He stressed that Qatar is making rapid strides in implementing Qatar National Vision 2030, noting the launch of its third phase at the beginning of 2024, which aims to build a diversified and sustainable knowledge-based economy, utilizing digital technology, science and innovation applications, strengthening infrastructure, increasing productivity and stimulating the business environment, with a focus on human development, caring for the family as the basic building block of society, expanding healthcare and social protection services, protecting the environment and building capacity to confront the effects of climate change. Al Naama added that Qatar will host the Second World Summit for Social Development in November, providing an opportunity for high-level dialogue on accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Qatar will also co-host with the Republic of Brazil the first meeting of the leaders of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty as a key event on the sidelines of the summit. He affirmed the State of Qatar's support for the UN Secretary-General's initiative to reform the international organization, and renewed support for the UN Resident Coordinator System for the 2025-2026 period with a total of $1 million, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operational activities at the country level and assist countries in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Qatar, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, pursues a holistic approach to countering terrorism and violent extremism that is based on addressing the root causes of this phenomenon through development, justice, and respect for international law, HE the Shura Council Speaker Hassan bin Abdullah al-Ghanim has affirmed.HE al-Ghanim highlighted that Qatar has made support for education, funding of development programmes, and provision of job opportunities for young people in crisis-battered zones a core priority in its efforts to counter extremist ideology.Hewas speaking at the opening session of the Global Parliamentary Conference on Counter-Terrorism, hosted in Istanbul, Turkiye, with the participation of a host of speakers of parliaments, legislative councils, as well as representatives of international organisations.The conference convenes at a critical time, as the need grows to unify efforts, strengthen international peace and security, and co-operate in confronting the scourge of terrorism that imperils societal stability and undermines development opportunities, he said.He noted that Qatar pursues a firmly rooted policy against terrorism and violent extremism, one that goes beyond mere security measures to address the economic, social, and political factors that lead to marginalisation and exclusion, the very environment in which extremist ideology takes root.Doha is preparing, as part of its efforts to support sustainable development and strengthen global parliamentary work, to host the second World Summit for Social Development in November. The summit will feature a parliamentary forum organised in partnership between the Shura Council and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on investing in people and institutions: the role of parliamentarians in social development, HE al-Ghanim noted.He further indicated that the forum will serve as a parliamentary platform to exchange experiences and best practices, and to discuss policies and legislation that bolster social development, thereby enhancing the role of parliaments in advancing communities and building human and institutional capacities.He averred that the ongoing practices of the Israeli occupation reflect yet another face of terrorism, noting that occupation forces have committed blood-soaked massacres in the Gaza Strip, claiming the lives of tens of thousands of innocent civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, in an egregious breach of international law and human values.The Israeli aggression has extended to target Qatar, which is mediating and spearheading international efforts to secure a ceasefire and alleviate the suffering of civilians in the Gaza Strip, he said, stressing that attacking the negotiating delegation at a civilian-safe location in Doha, which houses schools and embassies, constitutes state terror and a direct threat to civilian lives, in unconscionable violation of international law and diplomatic norms.HE al-Ghanim further added that silence in the face of such violations encourages impunity and undermines the international legal framework, noting that the arbitrary policies of the occupation not only threaten global peace and security but also help foster a fertile environment for the spread of violence and extremism, exacerbating instability across the region and the world.He called on the international community and all parliaments to assume their moral and legal responsibilities, condemn these crimes, hold Israel accountable, and work to suspend the Israeli Knesset’s membership in regional and international parliamentary organisations until it complies with international law and the principles of legitimacy, especially following remarks by the Speaker of the Knesset in which he described the aggression as a message to the Middle East, in presumptuous defiance of the international community and parliamentary values.Qatar has placed counter-terrorism at the forefront of its foreign policy priorities through its active engagement in international coalitions, contribution to shaping global strategies, and support for development programs that address the root causes of terrorism, HE al-Ghanim underlined, before noting that Doha hosts the Office of Parliamentary Participation in Preventing and Combating Terrorism, in partnership with the UN.This office serves as a comprehensive platform for parliaments from around the globe to co-ordinate international parliamentary efforts and organise conferences, seminars, and workshops that enhance legislative and oversight cooperation in this field, he outlined.He called on national parliaments, regional parliamentary associations, and the IPU to intensify efforts and co-ordinate closely with the aforementioned office in support of its programmes and objectives, and to activate its role in forging practical partnerships that contribute to achieving global peace and security, and in reinforcing the values of justice and respect for human rights.HE al-Ghanim hoped that the conference would yield effective outcomes in countering terrorism and violent extremism through concurrence on a comprehensive and precise international definition of terrorism, which draws a clear line between the legitimate struggle of peoples against occupation, as an inherent right, and the terrorist acts carried out by certain states and organisations.Parliamentary unity remains the most effective means to enhance international co-operation, achieve peace and security, and safeguard the future of coming generations, he stressed.For his part, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye, Numan Kurtulmus, underscored the depth of the brotherly relations and strategic co-operation between Qatar and Turkiye, lauding the Shura Council's role in combating terrorism and boosting international cooperation in this field.Kurtulmus called out the double standards of certain nations that claim to fight terrorism while supporting it through proxy wars. He pointed out that the most perilous form of terrorism is state terror perpetrated by Israel against the Palestinian people, amid the silence of the international community.The conference is organised in partnership between the Shura Council and the Doha-based UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) on Parliamentary Participation in Preventing and Combating Terrorism, in collaboration with the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT).It intends to bolster the role of parliaments in supporting legislative and oversight frameworks for combating terrorism and violent extremism, and in coordinating efforts between parliaments and relevant international organisations to formulate integrated policies grounded in respect for the rule of law and human rights.The agenda includes panel discussions addressing a wide range of issues, foremost among them the absence of a unified international definition of terrorism and its implications, the nexus between terrorism and organised crime, and the impact of occupation and armed conflicts in fueling extremism.Additional sessions will focus on parliamentary oversight in enhancing transparency, ensuring a balance between security and the protection of rights and public freedoms, culminating in the adoption of a final statement containing practical recommendations for the development of the next UN strategy for counter-terrorism.

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.

The Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva, in cooperation with the Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), organized a side event titled "Family First: A Foundation for Social Development," on the sidelines of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.The event was attended by more than 71 participants representing diplomatic missions in Geneva, international and regional organizations, and civil society organizations concerned with family and social development issues. HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN Office in Geneva, Dr. Hind Abdulrahman Al Muftah stated in a speech that the event is being held at a pivotal moment as the world faces increasing challenges, noting that its aim is to highlight the central role of the family in driving social development.HE Dr. Hind affirmed that families around the world continue to face serious challenges, including poverty, limited access to productive and decent employment, social exclusion, and the need for protection during armed conflicts.In this context, she pointed out that more than 7,320 families in the Gaza Strip have been completely wiped out or reduced to one or two surviving members as a result of the genocide crimes committed by Israel, the occupying power.HE Dr. Hind stressed that addressing these challenges is essential to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development for all, noting that the progress made since the first World Summit for Social Development still requires further efforts to strengthen support and empowerment of families globally.She referred to the launch by the State of Qatar in June 2025 of the Social Development and Family's Strategy for 2025-2030 under the slogan "From Care to Empowerment," which embodies its firm commitment to enhancing social cohesion through a comprehensive approach that responds to the actual needs of society.She explained that this strategy places families at the heart of national development, recognizing them as a pillar of stability, identity, and resilience, and represents a qualitative leap in Qatar's social development efforts by addressing both current priorities and future aspirations.HE Dr. Hind noted that governments, civil society, and international organizations have a fundamental role in this field, calling for the strengthening of family-supportive policies, enhancing social protection, ensuring access to education and healthcare, and developing inclusive labor markets as practical steps to empower families and help them thrive.

HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi announced that Qatar will host the second World Summit for Social Development in November, aiming to strengthen family policies, promote social inclusion, and reinforce family cohesion worldwide.The announcement came during her remarks at a high-level side event organized by Turkiye on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The event was titled 'Better Together: Global Solidarity Starting from the Family'.HE the minister emphasized that empowering families is essential to confronting humanitarian crises and navigating rapid economic and technological transformations. She called for coordinated national and international efforts to bolster the role of families as a cornerstone of social stability and sustainable development.She also highlighted Qatar's progressive policies in family support, noting that the Qatar National Vision 2030 places families at the heart of human and social development. This vision is reflected in the country's National Family Strategy (2025-2030), launched under the theme 'From Care to Empowerment,' which marks a strategic shift toward strengthening families and fostering community cohesion.HE al-Nuaimi highlighted Qatar's ongoing efforts including hosting the International Year of the Family Conference in Doha last October, which addressed global challenges affecting families, such as demographic shifts, migration, and the impact of modern technology and artificial intelligence on family structures.HE al-Nuaimi reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to supporting family systems both nationally and globally, and to deepening collaboration with regional and international institutions to build more cohesive societies grounded in peace, stability, and prosperity.

HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi affirmed Qatar's unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls and enhancing their role in the sustainable development process.This came during her participation, representing the State of Qatar, in the high-level meeting organized by the United Nations General Assembly to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the 4th World Conference on Women, on the sidelines of the high-level week of the 80th session of the General Assembly in New York.HE al-Nuaimi commended the adoption of "Recommitting to, resourcing and accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action," as the title of this meeting, indicating that the Beijing Declaration represents an important frame of reference for national efforts.She said that Qatar has given top priority to women's empowerment at various legislative, regulatory, and political levels, contributing to comprehensive and sustainable social development. HE al-Nuaimi highlighted the remarkable progress the country has achieved in this regard, as Qatar ranks first in the Arab world in women's participation in the workforce, reaching 63.3%, according to World Bank statistics for 2024. The percentage of female university graduates has also reached 67.5%, exceeding the global average.HE al-Nuaimi addressed modern public policies aimed at balancing family and professional life for women, including providing flexible work options and maternity and childcare benefits, in addition to more comprehensive support for vulnerable groups. She stressed the need to give special priority to women's issues and vulnerable groups in light of the humanitarian crises and conflicts the world is witnessing, discussing the worsening conditions in the Gaza Strip, which require the activation of international mechanisms concerned with protection and strict adherence to the provisions of international humanitarian law.HE al-Nuaimi urged the international community to support the efforts led by Qatar, in co-operation with regional and international partners, in preparation for hosting the Second World Summit for Social Development, which is expected to constitute a fundamental milestone in charting the future directions of the social development agenda and promoting sustainable development paths worldwide.