The State of Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights worldwide at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. In a statement delivered by Noor Al Maarifi, a member of Qatar’s delegation, the country emphasized its dedication to human rights, citing its constitutional and legislative framework that upholds these principles.
Al Maarifi’s statement was made during the General Assembly’s general debate on the report of the Human Rights Council at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Qatar’s commitment to human rights is reflected in its active engagement with UN human rights mechanisms and its membership in the Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term.
Qatar’s Human Rights Framework
According to Al Maarifi, Qatar’s constitutional and legislative system enshrines the principles of human rights and fundamental freedoms, guaranteeing their respect and protection for all. The country’s institutional framework includes various bodies and institutions dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights.
Qatar has demonstrated its commitment to human rights through its submission of its fourth national report to the Universal Periodic Review mechanism in November, as part of its efforts to promote and protect human rights. The country continues to play a leading role in providing humanitarian assistance, with the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) providing over $6 billion in development and humanitarian aid to various countries between 2012 and June 2023.
Humanitarian Efforts and International Cooperation
Al Maarifi highlighted Qatar’s ongoing support for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and its pride in hosting the United Nations Training and Documentation Centre for South-West Asia and the Arab Region in the field of human rights. The country’s humanitarian efforts are guided by its commitment to international partnership and cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Qatar’s membership in the Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term reflects its credibility as an international partner, according to Al Maarifi. The country’s continued engagement with UN human rights mechanisms demonstrates its dedication to promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.
Addressing Regional Human Rights Concerns
The Human Rights Council’s report touched on the human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. Al Maarifi reiterated Qatar’s condemnation of all forms of targeting civilians and its solidarity with the Palestinian people, emphasizing the need for security and stability in the region.
Qatar’s stance on the issue is in line with its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, as well as its efforts to achieve accountability and justice. The country’s continued support for humanitarian causes and its active role in international cooperation underscore its dedication to addressing global human rights challenges.
As the international community continues to grapple with human rights issues, Qatar’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights is expected to remain a key aspect of its foreign policy. The next steps in Qatar’s human rights efforts will likely be shaped by its ongoing engagement with UN human rights mechanisms and its membership in the Human Rights Council.
