The Doha Forum continues to solidify its position as a vital international platform for global cooperation, according to Rachida Kaout, President of the High Commission of the African Diasporas in France. Kaout emphasized the Forum’s increasing importance for emerging global actors, particularly African diasporas, in shaping future development and international partnerships. Her comments came during the recent forum held in Doha, Qatar, highlighting the event’s role in fostering dialogue and action on critical global issues.
The annual Doha Forum, which concluded on December 10, 2023, brought together policymakers, business leaders, and civil society representatives from around the world. Discussions centered on themes including international mediation, economic development, and climate change. Kaout’s presence underscored the growing recognition of the African diaspora’s influence in driving progress on the African continent.
The Rising Influence of the African Diaspora
Kaout stressed that the African diaspora represents a significant, often untapped, resource for Africa’s advancement. According to her, these communities possess unique perspectives, skills, and networks that can accelerate development across various sectors. This includes facilitating investment, transferring knowledge, and advocating for policy changes that benefit the continent.
“African diasporas are the new actors who can help Africa to be more developed,” Kaout stated, noting the vast potential within Africa in areas like technology, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. The Doha Forum provides a crucial venue for these actors to connect with potential partners and secure support for their initiatives.
Opportunities for Collaboration
Kaout’s delegation focused on identifying opportunities for collaboration with organizations capable of supporting Africa’s progress in key areas such as healthcare, education, and agricultural innovation. They sought concrete pathways and support mechanisms to translate commitments into tangible results on the ground. The Forum’s emphasis on action, rather than solely discussion, was particularly appealing.
However, challenges remain in effectively channeling diaspora resources and expertise. Coordination between diaspora groups, host countries, and African governments is often complex. Furthermore, ensuring that investments and initiatives align with local needs and priorities is crucial for sustainable impact.
Meanwhile, Qatar’s role in hosting and sustaining platforms like the Doha Forum was praised by Kaout. She described the country’s leadership as essential for establishing peace and security globally. Qatar’s commitment to fostering dialogue and encouraging international cooperation is seen as a key factor in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
In contrast to traditional diplomatic channels, the Doha Forum’s inclusive environment allows for a broader range of voices to be heard. Kaout highlighted the event’s ability to bring together individuals “from everywhere,” fostering a sense of shared responsibility for global challenges. She traveled from France specifically to participate, underscoring the Forum’s international reach.
The event’s focus on inclusive representation and collective action resonated with Kaout, who affirmed that “everybody can be an actor of change.” This sentiment reflects a growing recognition that addressing complex global issues requires the participation of diverse stakeholders, including diasporas, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Diaspora engagement is increasingly recognized by international organizations as a key component of sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the success of the Doha Forum will likely be measured by the concrete outcomes it generates. Follow-up mechanisms to track commitments and ensure accountability will be critical. The next Doha Forum is expected to be held in late 2024, and observers will be watching to see how the event continues to evolve and adapt to the changing global landscape. The long-term impact of the Forum’s initiatives on African development remains to be seen, but the initial signs are promising.