The State of Qatar has renewed its membership in the Intergovernmental Management of Social Transformations (MOST) Programme, a UNESCO-affiliated initiative, for the year 2025. The renewal was confirmed during the 43rd session of the organization’s General Conference held in Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan. The MOST Programme is an international governmental platform that integrates scientific research with policymaking, promoting social and human development.
Nasser Al Meghessib from the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF) will represent Qatar in the MOST Council until the end of the 45th session of the General Conference. The MSDF said the renewal reflects the international community’s confidence in Qatar’s role in supporting social policies based on scientific research and knowledge. Qatar’s membership renewal was adopted under the item concerning elections of bodies whose members are elected by the General Conference.
Qatar’s Role in Global Social Policies
The MOST Programme focuses on issues such as social justice, empowerment, and reducing inequalities, all of which are crucial to Qatar’s national development strategies and Qatar National Vision 2030. The Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science stated that the renewal reinforces Qatar’s position as a key partner in shaping global social policies.
The MSDF attributed the renewal to Qatar’s active contribution to promoting sustainable development through cooperation between government institutions and national research centers. The Doha International Family Institute and the Social and Economic Survey Research Institute at Qatar University are among the entities that have contributed to this effort. The ministry’s statement highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking in achieving social development goals.
Implications for Social Development
The renewal of Qatar’s membership in the MOST Programme is expected to enhance the country’s presence in UN initiatives related to social development. This move aligns with the outcomes of the Second World Summit for Social Development hosted by Doha. The MOST Programme’s emphasis on social cohesion and reducing inequalities is particularly relevant to Qatar’s national development strategies.
As Qatar continues to play a key role in shaping global social policies, the next steps will be crucial in determining the country’s ongoing involvement in the MOST Programme. The 45th session of the General Conference will be a significant milestone, and future developments will be worth monitoring. The report indicates that Qatar’s continued participation will depend on its ability to maintain its commitment to evidence-based policymaking and social development. The ministry is likely to continue working closely with national research centers and government institutions to achieve these goals.
