Doha: The 4th National Human Rights Forum, organized by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, concluded recently under the theme "Human Rights at the Heart of Drug Control: Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Solutions." The forum aimed to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing drug-related issues through a human rights lens.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event was conducted with support from the Ministries of Social Development and Family, Education and Higher Education, and Public Health. Additionally, it featured participation from the Public Prosecution, National Planning Council, National Cyber Security Agency, GCC Criminal Information Center to Combat Drugs, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and other key stakeholders, including specialized UN offices, civil society, and the media.
HE NHRC Chairperson Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah emphasized that the forum set the stage for transitioning from recommendations to actionable programs. She highlighted the importance of implementing outcomes that balance stringent drug control measures with compassionate treatment and rehabilitation, aiming to protect human dignity and ensure societal safety.
Al Attiyah proposed the creation of a permanent national platform in partnership with the National Committee to Combat Drugs, which would include representatives from governmental and international bodies, civil society, and youth. This platform would serve to monitor the implementation of forum recommendations and sustain their impact.
At the forum's closing session, HE NHRC Secretary-General Sultan bin Hassan Al Jammali praised Qatar's efforts in combating drug issues and promoting rehabilitation. He stressed the need for legislative and policy development to address emerging drug threats and emphasized the importance of a human rights-based approach.
Key recommendations from the forum included the development of a national drug control index, innovative rehabilitation approaches, and a national fund to support drug victims. Participants also called for societal awareness campaigns and the integration of human rights principles in drug control measures.
The forum underscored the importance of international cooperation, particularly in law enforcement and the judiciary, and recommended strengthening technical partnerships with the United Nations and regional bodies. Participants also advocated for the inclusion of NHRC, civil society, and youth in the National Committee to Combat Drugs to foster an inclusive national response.
In closing, participants committed to implementing the forum's recommendations, aligning with Qatar's national and international commitments to uphold human dignity and societal safety against drug-related challenges.