The Investment and Trade Court in Doha, Qatar, recently hosted a group of children from the Dreama Orphan Care Center as part of their ongoing “Little Lawyer” program. This initiative aims to enhance legal awareness among young people and familiarize them with the workings of the judicial system in a manner appropriate for their age. The visit underscores the court’s commitment to community outreach and fostering a stronger understanding of the law.
The event, which took place this week, involved the children observing a real court session and touring the court’s facilities. The Dreama center, overseen by the Qatar Social Work Foundation, serves as a crucial resource for orphans and children in need of care within the country. The court emphasizes that these types of engagements are pivotal for societal development.
Strengthening Legal Awareness Through Community Engagement
The “Little Lawyer” program is part of a wider effort by the Investment and Trade Court to make judicial processes more transparent and accessible to the public. This stems from a broader trend in Qatar towards proactive engagement with civil society, intended to build trust in the country’s institutions. According to the court, giving children a firsthand look at the legal system can dismantle misconceptions and inspire civic responsibility.
During the visit, the children were given a briefing on the court’s jurisdiction, which focuses on commercial disputes and investment-related matters. This included explanations of the types of cases handled and the services offered to litigants, tailored to a younger audience. The session provided insights into the procedures followed during a trial, from initial pleadings to the final judgment.
Understanding Litigation Processes
Attending a live court session was a key component of the experience. The children observed the presentation of arguments, the role of the judge, and the overall flow of a judicial proceeding. This unique opportunity aims to illustrate the principles of justice and fairness in a practical context, helping them understand how disputes are resolved peacefully and legally.
Following the session, a tour of the court’s infrastructure was conducted. This included visits to chambers, administrative offices, and waiting areas, deepening their overall comprehension of the judicial system. The intention was to demystify the court environment and present it as a vital part of the community.
President of the Investment and Trade Court, H.E. Judge Khalid bin Ali Al Obaidly, highlighted the importance of extending such programs to children in foster care and diverse age groups. He emphasized the court’s dedication to its social role and the cultivation of a strong legal culture within Qatar. He believes that broadening their knowledge and self-confidence is a critical investment in the future.
Additionally, Al Obaidly stated that societal responsibility and proactive social work are central to the court’s institutional philosophy. The court seeks to bridge the gap between the judiciary and the public, promoting collaboration and long-term positive influence. Similar initiatives are reportedly planned for other groups within the community, further expanding the court’s outreach efforts.
However, challenges remain in terms of consistently implementing and evaluating such programs. Measuring the long-term impact of increased legal education on children’s perceptions and behaviors requires ongoing assessment and refinement of the program’s curriculum. Ensuring accessibility for all children, including those with disabilities, is also a key consideration.
The Dreama center has been a long-standing advocate for the rights and well-being of orphaned children in Qatar, focusing on providing comprehensive care and educational opportunities. This partnership with the Investment and Trade Court illustrates a growing trend of collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations to address social needs.
Looking ahead, the Investment and Trade Court has not announced specific dates for future “Little Lawyer” program sessions. However, the court indicated its intention to continue these engagements as part of its annual outreach calendar. The success of this inaugural event will likely inform the scope and content of future visits and workshops, with a continued focus on promoting public understanding of the legal framework in Qatar.
