HBKU, The Hague Institute for Global Justice sign MoU

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and The Hague Institute for Global Justice have signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for mutual co-operation. The MoU promotes co-operation in the exchange of knowledge, executive programmes, student opportunities, and the expansion of shared research programmes, with the goal of contributing towards peace, security, and justice.The agreement was signed by HBKU president, Dr Ahmad M Hasnah, and Dr David Connolly, head of research, The Hague Institute.It establishes a framework for the two parties to develop international partnerships that enable collaboration on academic programmes, research and professional development across a range of fields that include conflict prevention, rule of law, and global governance. Specific areas may include climate adaptation, human security, peace building, and international law. It also opens the prospect of internships in research and communication, fellowships on priority topics, exchange of scholars, specialised training, and capacity building. Dr Hasnah noted, “At HBKU, we value the significance in building synergies with international partners, to help inspire and benefit the Qatari community towards discovering innovative solutions that respond to regional and global challenges. Our collaboration with The Hague Institute for Global Justice will explore different opportunities in education by utilising the institute’s interdisciplinary policy-relevant research and experts.”Dr Connolly said, “Chief among our priorities at The Hague Institute is sharing knowledge among practitioners, academics, students and policy-makers globally with the aim of informing policy recommendations and improving best practice. HBKU shares this important pillar of our mission and we are eager to partner on teaching and research activities in Qatar and the Middle East – a region at the forefront of innovation, despite significant political transitions and volatility.”The HBKU president added, “The MoU will allow both institutions to cooperate in educational and research areas. Our students and faculty will benefit from the expertise of The Hague Institute in the area of international law and human rights.” He said each party of the MoU will nominate two members for a committee to design a clear and long-term plan to implement activities of mutual interest.