The Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, HE Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al-Sulaiti, emphasized the State of Qatar’s commitment to enhancing the status of women as a key element in achieving Qatar National Vision 2030. Speaking at the “Investing in Women’s Participation in Political Life” Forum in Amman, Jordan, organized by the Ministerial Committee for the Empowerment of Women in Jordan, in collaboration with various organizations, Her Excellency highlighted Qatar’s efforts to provide equal opportunities for women in education, work, and political participation. She noted that Qatari women now hold senior executive positions and make up over 37 percent of the workforce in various sectors.
HE Dr. Al-Sulaiti also discussed the State’s focus on strengthening and protecting families and providing conditions for women to participate in public work. She highlighted the significant presence of Qatari women in vital sectors such as education, health, and entrepreneurship, noting that they represent more than 20 percent of entrepreneurs in the country. The State’s efforts to empower women extend beyond Qatar, as it supports women’s education in sisterly and friendly countries, especially in conflict zones.
As a member of the Coalition of Women Parliamentarians from Arab Countries to Combat Violence against Women, Her Excellency praised the resilience of Palestinian women facing the Israeli occupation and called for the protection of their rights. She emphasized the need for continued support for Palestinian women through initiatives and assistance, as well as raising awareness of their cause in local, regional, and international forums. The Forum discussed challenges facing women in public life, the importance of investing in women’s participation, and the role of the media in enhancing their involvement in society.
During the Forum, HE Dr. Al-Sulaiti met with HE Wafa Bani Mustafa, Minister of Social Development and Head of the Ministerial Committee for Women’s Empowerment in Jordan, to discuss agenda topics and areas of common interest. The discussions also touched on the role of the Coalition of Women Parliamentarians from Arab Countries to Combat Violence against Women in advancing the status of Arab women and supporting their participation in development. Additionally, Her Excellency met with Nvart Taminian from the National Democratic Institute to explore ways to enhance women’s participation in decision-making at both national and international levels.
In conclusion, the commitment of the State of Qatar to promoting women’s participation and empowerment, as highlighted by HE Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al-Sulaiti, reflects a broader global effort to address gender equality and combat violence against women. Through initiatives like the “Investing in Women’s Participation in Political Life” Forum, countries like Qatar and Jordan are working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where women can fully realize their potential and contribute to national development. The discussions and recommendations from the Forum will likely serve as a catalyst for further action in advancing women’s rights and opportunities in the region and beyond.