The 17th World Congress of Bioethics, organized by Hamad Bin Khalifa University, will take place in Doha, Qatar from June 3-6. The event, themed “Religion, Culture and Global Bioethics,” is a collaboration between the Research Center for Islamic Legislation and Ethics (CILE) and the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), a global health initiative of Qatar Foundation. This marks the first time the International Association of Bioethics (IAB) has hosted its flagship event in the Arab world and the Middle East, with a focus on facilitating cross-cultural discussions on bioethics.
One of the highlights of this year’s Congress is the inclusion of panels and sessions conducted in the Arabic language, reflecting the IAB’s commitment to engaging bioethicists from diverse cultural backgrounds. The interplay between religion, culture, and bioethics will be at the forefront of discussions, aimed at attracting a range of voices and perspectives to enhance the global discourse on bioethics. Mohammed Ghaly, Head of CILE and Chair of the Congress, emphasized the importance of hosting this prestigious event in Qatar, bringing together researchers and scholars from underrepresented regions such as the Middle East, Arab-Muslim World, and Asia.
Sultana Afdhal, Co-chair of the World Congress of Bioethics representing WISH, expressed excitement about partnering with HBKU to co-host the event. WISH has been a proud partner of HBKU’s Center for Islamic Legislation and Ethics (CILE), further underscoring the significance of collaboration in advancing bioethical discourse. The Congress will provide a platform for leading thought-leaders and academics in the field of bioethics to engage in critical dialogues and shape contemporary bioethical discourse.
The decision to bring the World Congress of Bioethics to Qatar is a testament to the impactful contributions made by CILE, HBKU, and WISH within the field of bioethics. By convening diverse voices and perspectives, the event aims to foster meaningful discussions that address complex bioethical challenges from a global standpoint. With a focus on the intersection of religion, culture, and bioethics, the Congress seeks to broaden participation and engagement in bioethical debates, particularly from regions that have historically been underrepresented in such forums.
Participants of the 17th World Congress of Bioethics can look forward to a dynamic program that includes a wide range of topics related to bioethics, from ethical considerations in healthcare to cultural perspectives on medical decision-making. The event presents a unique opportunity for networking and collaboration among researchers, scholars, and practitioners in the field, with a focus on building bridges across different cultural and religious contexts. By hosting the Congress in Qatar, organizers hope to create a lasting impact on the global bioethical community and stimulate further discussions on the ethical implications of healthcare and medical research.
In conclusion, the 17th World Congress of Bioethics in Doha, Qatar promises to be a landmark event in the field of bioethics, with a focus on fostering cross-cultural dialogues and expanding the global discourse on ethical considerations in healthcare. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the Congress aims to create a platform for meaningful discussions that address current bioethical challenges from a range of cultural and religious viewpoints. With a dynamic program and esteemed speakers, the event is set to make a significant contribution to advancing the field of bioethics and promoting ethical practices in healthcare worldwide.
