The State of Qatar…. Distinguished Diplomatic Successes, Steadfast Commitments to International Treaties

Since gaining independence in 1971, the State of Qatar paid special attention to establishing its identity and enhancing its international presence. It proactively built a network of distinguished relationships with global organizations and joined the United Nations, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to build a modern, prosperous state, enhance its regional role economically, politically, and culturally, and contribute effectively to global security, peace, and stability. In line with the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Qatari diplomacy in the field of international cooperation has achieved notable successes, making it a global model. Qatar joined over 328 Arab, regional, and international organizations across social, economic, environmental, political, cultural, and scientific fields. Qatar is also committed to supporting all United Nations agencies by providing the necessary resources for them to carry out their missions a nd achieve their objectives. Additionally, Qatar has made voluntary donations to around one hundred UN funds and programs. Qatar's international cooperation strategy supports the goal of advancing economic and social development in low-income countries, aligning with the global Sustainable Development Agenda 2030, and supporting global partnerships to eliminate poverty, reduce inequality, and promote economic development and environmental sustainability. Over 100 country in different continents have benefited from Qatari aid. Driven by a focus on human welfare and aspirations, Qatar has prioritized human rights. Protecting these rights is a fundamental pillar of its policy and a strategic choice emphasized in Qatar National Vision 2030. This vision includes important aspects addressing key human rights issues in education, health, environment, labor rights, women's empowerment, and children's rights. It is also reflected in the national development strategy and the strengthening of relevant national institu tions, including the National Human Rights Committee. To enhance its role in this area, Qatar has joined the Human Rights Council and plays an active role in promoting the Council's mission to uphold global respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms without discrimination. The State's commitment to human rights is grounded in the principles outlined in its Constitution and its participation in most of the fundamental international human rights instruments. National laws and regulations have been amended in line with these instruments, and their implementation is monitored. Qatar has acceded to several international human rights treaties that promote the principle of non-discrimination, such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Qatar is among the first countries in the region t o grant women the right to vote and run for office, and Qatari women currently hold prominent positions in the State. Qatar has also undertaken substantial legislative reforms, including those related to the legal framework for migrant workers' rights, property ownership by non-Qataris, political asylum, domestic workers, permanent residency, and the regulation of migrant entry, exit, and residence. It has established a Workers Support and Insurance Fund and focuses on instilling the principle of equality and non-discrimination in its youth by integrating internationally agreed human rights concepts into educational curricula. Qatar has partnered with the UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict to establish an analysis and communication center in Doha and hosts the UN Training and Documentation Center for Human Rights for South-West Asia and the Arab region. To match its words with actions, Qatar established the National Human Rights Committee in 2002 to enhance and entrench the state of r ights, freedoms, and law. The Committee plays a distinguished and active role in protecting and defending human rights, particularly labor rights, based on international human rights standards. It has succeeded in making human rights a national culture and daily practice for individuals and institutions alike, enabling Qatar, as a state and community, to achieve the highest standards of human rights. Source: Qatar News Agency