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The management and students of The Next Generation (TNG) School, Al Daayen Campus, have partnered with the embassy of Pakistan in Doha to promote environmental protection and awareness.Deputy head of mission Atiya Iqbal and community welfare attaché Osama Idrees visited TNG as part of the embassy’s “Green Drive” initiative, a tree-planting and environmental awareness campaign in Qatar, organised in recognition of Qatar National Day (QND).During the visit, TNG Al Daayen’s Student Council members and participants of the British Council’s “Your World Competition” presented their research and projects on environmental sustainability.Students highlighted the inspiration behind their work, the innovative solutions they proposed, and the impact they aim to create.The session featured a detailed and interactive discussion with the embassy representatives, where students asked questions and explored solutions to sustainability challenges, such as digital responsibility, food waste management, and plastic reduction.Senior students, along with the wider Student Council body, attended the event to observe and take forward these discussions across the student community.Their involvement aims to inspire peers and further strengthen a culture of environmental responsibility within the campus.Iqbal lauded the students for their passion, confidence, and clarity of vision.The event concluded with a tree planting activity led by the Pakistan embassy officials within the school premises. 

Her Excellency Minister of State for International Co-operation Dr Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad met Wednesday with the visiting UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk. Discussions during the meeting dealt with co-operation between Qatar and the United Nations in the areas of human rights protection and human development. They also discussed the human rights situation in crisis zones, mechanisms for supporting the most vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, and a number of other topics of mutual interest. During the meeting, the Minister of State for International Co-operation affirmed the Qatar's commitment to supporting UN efforts aimed at promoting human rights and strengthening multilateral partnerships to achieve more effective responses. For his part, the UN high commissioner for human rights commended the Qatar's role in humanitarian and diplomatic work and its efforts in supporting protection and promoting human rights at the international level. 

The State of Qatar participated Thursday in a high-level briefing on Wage Protection Systems (WPS) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, convened on the margins of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body meetings in Geneva.His Excellency Minister of Labour Dr Ali bin Samikh al-Marri represented the State of Qatar at the session. The session, organized by the Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs in the GCC States, and supported by the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar and the Permanent Mission of the GCC in Geneva, showcased the outcomes of a joint study undertaken with the ILO on the evolution of WPS across the region.The meeting underscored the collective determination of GCC countries to continue strengthening labour market governance, promote fair working conditions, and advance the objectives of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, in line with broader commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals.In his address, His Excellency Dr Ali bin Samikh al-Marri described the joint study as a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between the GCC and the ILO. He noted that the findings reflect a shared resolve to uphold social justice, reinforce workers' rights, and entrench the principles of decent work across the region.HE the Minister highlighted that the GCC's experience in wage protection has matured into a recognized regional and international model. He emphasized that the transition from traditional regulations to integrated digital platforms has enhanced transparency, strengthened compliance, and ensured timely payment of wages - contributing to greater trust between employers and workers, and supporting long-term labour market stability.He added that this progress is anchored in a clear political commitment from GCC governments to balance robust worker protection with the growth and continuity of private-sector enterprises, through a framework grounded in transparency, accountability, and constructive engagement with international partners.His Excellency the Minister of Labour reaffirmed that wage protection remains a central pillar of Qatar's labour market reforms. He noted that the country has implemented a comprehensive suite of mechanisms - including the electronic WPS, streamlined dispute-resolution pathways, and the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund - all contributing to the broader agenda of social justice and to the objectives of the Global Coalition.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), represented by the Wildlife Protection Department, carried out a clean-up and rehabilitation campaign of Rawdat Al Waseeta in Al Shamal, part of a national project to fence and rehabilitate Qatar’s wild fields. Carried out in co-operation with Qatar Insurance Company (QIC), the rehabilitation effort saw the participation of representatives from official entities, volunteers, and environmental workers, with 15 students from the Children’s Literature Center taking part in planting native trees and desert plants, in addition to 300 seedlings of local species such as the Qatari Al Ghaf Tree, which help stabilise soil and preserve biodiversity in desert environments. In this context, Assistant Director of the Wildlife Development Department at MoECC Dr Dhafi Heedan said that this initiative forms part of an integrated set of projects implemented by MoECC to protect terrestrial ecosystems and develop the country’s vegetation cover in cooperation with private-sector partners. **media[383109]** He said that rawdat areas are some of Qatar’s most important ecosystems, providing natural habitats for plant and animal species, adding that fencing is a key step done before conducting environmental rehabilitation. For his part, Group Chief Administrative Officer of QIC Group Rashid al-Buainain affirmed that the partnership with MoECC reflects a strategic commitment to supporting national environmental protection projects and conserving natural resources. **media[383110]** He said that rehabilitating rawdat areas is not merely an environmental activity but a long-term investment in Qatar’s environmental future, adding that QIC remains committed to continued cooperation in similar initiatives. At the conclusion of the event, participants, volunteers, and supporting organisations were honoured in recognition of their efforts, with an emphasis on continued collaboration between MoECC and private-sector institutions through sustainable environmental development initiatives, in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Qatar Charity (QC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Gambia’s Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare to strengthen co-operation in social protection, economic empowerment, and improving the quality of life for vulnerable groups. **media[382657]** The signing ceremony was attended by Fatou Sanyang Kinteh, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare of Gambia; His Excellency Abdullah Jassim al-Kuwari, acting Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Qatar in Gambia; and Mustafa Essatte, director of QC’s office in Gambia, alongside senior officials and civil society representatives. The MoU was signed by Ilo Jallow, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, and Mustafa Essatte, director of QC’s office in Gambia. **media[382658]** Speaking at the event, Kinteh stressed the importance of this partnership, saying, “This co-operation represents a pivotal step in achieving the ministry’s goals of strengthening social protection for vulnerable groups, empowering women economically and socially, improving care services for children and the elderly, and supporting social inclusion programmes to raise living standards in rural communities. **media[382659]** “We believe that working hand-in-hand with QC will deliver a tangible and sustainable impact on the ground,” the Minister said, thanking the Embassy of Qatar, QC, and the people of Qatar for their continued support. **media[382660]** Al-Kuwari lauded the initiative, noting its role in advancing social development and economic empowerment in Gambia. Essatte said the MoU reflects a shared commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, empowering women, and improving living standards. He stressed the importance of joint efforts for sustainable impact and thanked the Minister, the Qatari envoy, and the people of Qatar for their continued support. **media[382661]** The ceremony also marked the distribution of essential aid, including 200 kitchen sets, 320 solar-powered lamps, 69 blood pressure monitors, 19 sewing machines, 14 vegetable stalls, and four electric wheelchairs for persons with disabilities. Over the past three months, QC’s office in Gambia completed 28 solar-powered wells in 28 villages, benefiting about 8,400 people. The office also launched six sheep-farming projects and five poultry projects, distributed 62 sewing machines, set up 26 fruit and vegetable stalls, and provided three motorbikes, supporting 102 low-income families. Social and educational efforts included distributing 90 blood sugar monitors, 11 school bag and uniform provision projects, 15 bicycles for orphans, building a home for a mother of orphaned children, and constructing a mosque covering 80 sqm.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's Marine Protection Department organised a beach cleanup initiative at Umm Bab, as part of a series of environmental campaigns carried out throughout the year. The initiative seeks to encourage the participation of the local community, volunteer groups, and institutions in national efforts to reduce marine pollution and maintain the beauty of beaches. The ministry emphasised that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of all members of society.

QNB Group has been awarded the “Best Data Protection Innovation of the Year 2025” at the 11th Middle East Enterprise AI & Analytics Summit held recently in Doha, for the second consecutive year, which highlights QNB’s advanced use of technology to strengthen data protection and compliance with privacy regulations.The award recognises organisations that demonstrate exceptional innovation in utilising technology to enhance data protection practices. QNB was honoured for its cutting-edge approach to ensuring secure data management, safeguarding customer information, and maintaining the highest international standards of data privacy.The independent jury panel highlighted QNB’s continuous investment in technological advancement and innovation, which has positioned the bank as a regional leader in data governance, privacy and compliance.This recognition reflects QNB Group’s unwavering commitment to protecting its customers’ data and build trust through advanced technologies and robust privacy frameworks. QNB’s data protection strategy forms part of its broader digital transformation roadmap, which emphasises leveraging AI and analytics to deliver secure, efficient, and customer-centric banking experiences.

The State of Qatar continues to implement advanced strategies in environmental protection and air quality improvement, as part of Qatar National Vision 2030, which places environmental sustainability at the core of national policies. Thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Qatar has emerged as a regional leader in developing a comprehensive and precise national air quality monitoring and improvement system, relying on the latest globally recognized environmental technologies and systems. In a pioneering step, during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, advanced air quality monitoring stations were deployed around each stadium, covering areas of up to 5 square kilometers. These stations enabled real-time environmental data analysis in both fan zones and stadium surroundings, offering a global model for implementing environmental sustainability in major events. The stations were equipped with cutting-edge sensors capable of measuring pollutant gas concentrations and airborne particles, as well as identifying their sources. They also had the ability to transmit data instantly to the Air Quality Monitoring and Analysis Unit, which analyzes the data and issues early warnings when necessary. Air quality in the State of Qatar is subject to continuous, real-time monitoring through an integrated national network comprising more than 45 fixed and mobile stations distributed across various regions of the country, including residential areas, industrial zones, major roads, and the surroundings of key facilities. Assistant Director of the Environmental Monitoring and Inspection Department at the Ministry Abdullah Al Khulaifi said, in an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), that air quality in Qatar is closely monitored around the clock through advanced systems linked to the Air Quality Monitoring and Analysis Unit, where data is instantly analyzed to ensure compliance with national and international standards. Al Khalifi explained that the national air quality monitoring network includes over 45 specialized stations measuring ambient air quality, in addition to another network of 20 stations located at main roads and intersections to monitor emissions from traffic and vehicles. He noted that these stations are internationally certified and provide an accurate representation of air quality conditions across the country. He stated that the Ministry relies on advanced systems for data analysis through a specialized unit within the Monitoring and Inspection Department, where data from monitoring stations nationwide is collected for environmental assessment and the preparation of periodic reports. The Assistant Director also revealed that the Ministry is working to upgrade monitoring systems by adopting the latest technologies, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics to enhance forecasting efficiency and the ability to predict potential pollution events, thereby enabling prompt action to mitigate any negative impacts. Al Khalifi emphasized that the efforts go beyond monitoring alone, encompassing broad awareness and community initiatives aimed at promoting a culture of environmental and air quality preservation. These efforts include media campaigns and partnerships with schools and universities, with the goal of instilling a sense of environmental responsibility across all segments of society. Al Khalifi noted that the Ministry is committed to enhancing data transparency and raising public awareness, which led to the launch of the Electronic Air Quality Platform. This platform provides the public with real-time information on air quality in eight key regions across the country, using simplified color-coded indicators based on the globally recognized Air Quality Index (AQI) system. It allows citizens and residents to easily understand the air quality in their surroundings. He explained that the AQI levels are displayed according to six internationally approved categories that reflect the condition of ambient air. These are represented by color gradients, from green, indicating clean air, to purple, which signals hazardous pollution levels. The AQI is based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ground-level ozone (O₃), and carbon monoxide (CO). He added that the monitored data also includes a variety of additional variables, such as hydrocarbons, sulfur compounds, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), along with meteorological readings like temperature, wind speed and direction, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and visibility. This enables a comprehensive analysis of how atmospheric conditions impact air quality." Al Khalifi stressed that the data published by the Ministry is based on field readings from certified monitoring stations and undergoes scientific validation. This is the only reliable source for assessing air quality in the State of Qatar. He cautioned against relying on unofficial data published by some external sources that use uncertified devices or general satellite-based simulation models. These entities do not have accurate monitoring equipment inside the country and lack a deep understanding of Qatar's local environmental conditions. He also stated that all these entities that publish air quality platforms on the internet rely on unreliable data sources linked to commercial websites that use monitoring technologies and commercial devices which do not meet even the basic internationally recognized standards and requirements. Moreover, these platforms are not accredited by any specialized environmental monitoring authority, especially the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They have spread widely due to their low cost and extensive commercial marketing campaigns. He explained that many platforms use the same misleading data sources but differ in how they present the information, underscoring the importance of relying on trusted sources and official national agencies for accurate information.He clarified that the Ministry takes into account the impacts of population growth, urban development, and the increasing number of vehicles, which is why it adopts sustainable transportation plans such as metro systems, electric buses, and cycling paths. These efforts aim to reduce traffic-related emissions and achieve an environmental balance that reflects the country's vision toward smart and sustainable cities.He pointed out that the environmental monitoring system is based on national laws governing environmental protection, such as Law No. (30) of 2002 and its Executive Regulation No. (4) of 2005, with standards aligned with the requirements of international environmental bodies. This alignment enhances the credibility and professionalism of the Ministry's work.Assistant Director of the Environmental Monitoring and Inspection Department at the Ministry Abdullah Al Khulaifi concluded by saying that the Ministry continues to expand the national air quality monitoring network, which started with a limited number of stations and now exceeds 45 stations, with plans to increase to over 50 stations in the near future. The Ministry also continuously implements technical updates and standardizes operational procedures to ensure data consistency and efficiency, in institutional cooperation with several national entities such as the Ministry of Public Health, Ashghal Public Works Authority, Qatar Meteorology Department, and QatarEnergy, thereby enhancing integration in environmental data monitoring and analysis.

The Protection and Social Rehabilitation Center (Aman), part of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, wrapped up the Light Exhibition held in partnership with Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar.The month-long exhibition showcased Aman’s awareness workshops, engaging students from kindergartens and both public and private schools.In this context, Aman Center’s Acting Executive Director Fadel Mohammed al-Kaabi said the Light Exhibition aimed to foster public awareness and education on social protection, while strengthening child safety measures and nurturing children’s creative and innovative abilities.He emphasised that the exhibition provided an educational environment and a unique opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills using new tools such as light and shadow.Al-Kaabi further noted that more than 20 schools were invited, targeting over 300 students from primary levels in both public and private schools, in addition to students from the Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities, children from Dreama Center for Orphan Care, and children benefiting from Aman Center’s internal care services.He explained that the exhibition received positive feedback from educational staff, including social workers and teachers accompanying the students, particularly in how Aman’s awareness workshops were integrated with the exhibition tools. He affirmed that these tools help unleash children’s potential in discovering their identities and creative abilities.For her part, Head of the Communication and Information Office at Aman Center Hanan al-Ali stressed the centre’s commitment to activating community partnerships with various entities and sectors across the country, noting that child protection is a shared responsibility.She added that the collaboration with Dadu Museum marks the beginning of a series of awareness events aimed at children, highlighting the museum’s dedication to delivering information and education through play.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change’s Wildlife Protection Department in co-operation with the Environmental Security Unit of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) has carried out an extensive inspection campaign in the southern regions of the country aimed at reducing environmental violations regarding the use of bird-attracting devices.The campaign resulted in the seizure of around 474 bird-attracting devices (sound lures), and the necessary legal measures were taken in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in this regard. The ministry stressed the importance of adhering to environmental laws and regulations and refraining from using methods that harm wildlife and biodiversity. It also noted that the campaign is ongoing as part of its efforts to protect Qatar’s environment and preserve its natural components.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's Marine Protection Department has spotted an environmental violation involving the entry of three marine vessels into the fishing harbour of Bu Zuluf, located west of Al-Ruwais Port, where they collided with the coral reefs.A field inspection team from the ministry’s Marine Protection Department examined the site and found topographical changes to the seabed caused by the direct contact of the vessels with the coral reefs. This resulted in the destruction of coral structures, a reduction in the percentage of live coral cover, and erosion and sedimentation in parts of the reef area due to the collision.The ministry explained that these damages negatively affected the rich biodiversity of the area, home to many fish, invertebrates, and marine organisms associated with the coral reef ecosystem.The ministry stressed that it has taken the necessary legal measures against the violators, while confirming its continued efforts to intensify the protection of natural resources and monitor and detect any environmental violations against the country’s marine ecosystems.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that a drone that violated his country's airspace was shot down. Poland's State Protection Service neutralized a drone operating over sensitive government sites, Tusk said on X platform.Two people were detained in connection with the incident and police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, Tusk added.NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte recently announced that the alliance would significantly strengthen its defenses on its eastern front, following the Russian drone incursion into Poland's airspace, a member of the alliance.