Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the National Human Rights Committee and the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, marked International Human Rights Day with the opening of the “Sport Is a Right for All” exhibition at Old Doha Port on December 10, 2023. The event underscores Qatar’s commitment to promoting human rights through the unifying power of athletics. The exhibition is open to the public until December 20, 2023.
The inauguration was attended by prominent figures including HE Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee, and HE Sarah Al-Saadi, Acting Director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassadors and representatives from various national entities also joined the opening ceremony, demonstrating broad support for the initiative. The exhibition aims to raise awareness about the fundamental connection between sports participation and the realization of universal human rights.
The Role of Sport in Advancing Human Rights
The exhibition focuses on how human rights are intrinsically linked to access to sport at all levels. According to the United Nations, sport and physical activity can contribute to personal development, health, and well-being, as well as to social inclusion and economic growth. Qatar’s hosting of major sporting events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2022, has brought increased scrutiny to its labor practices and human rights record.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the exhibition is not a direct response to criticism, but rather a continuation of ongoing efforts to strengthen human rights protections within the country. It highlights the positive impact of sports in fostering equality and non-discrimination, principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The event also emphasizes the importance of safe and inclusive sporting environments for all individuals.
Contributions to the Exhibition
The Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum (3-2-1) and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education played a significant role in developing the exhibition’s content. Their contributions aim to enhance the educational value and broaden the reach of the message. The inclusion of materials from these institutions provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of sports development and its alignment with human rights principles.
The exhibition features displays illustrating how sport can be a tool for social change, promoting gender equality, and empowering marginalized communities. It also showcases Qatar’s initiatives to ensure accessibility to sports for people with disabilities, aligning with international standards for inclusive physical activity. The displays utilize a variety of media, including photographs, videos, and interactive exhibits.
International Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This year’s theme, as with previous years, centers on the importance of upholding the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstance. Qatar’s participation in this global observance demonstrates its commitment to these principles.
The exhibition’s timing coincides with increased global attention on human rights issues, particularly in the context of large-scale sporting events. While Qatar has made strides in labor reforms following the 2022 World Cup, challenges remain in ensuring the full protection of workers’ rights and promoting a truly inclusive society. The event serves as a platform to showcase these efforts and address ongoing concerns.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not announced any specific follow-up events directly linked to the exhibition. However, continued monitoring of Qatar’s human rights progress, particularly in relation to sports infrastructure and labor practices, will be crucial. The long-term impact of the exhibition will depend on its ability to translate awareness into concrete action and policy changes.
The exhibition remains open to the public at Old Doha Port until December 20, 2023, offering a valuable opportunity for residents and visitors to learn more about the intersection of sport and human rights. Further information can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.