Ashraf Siddiqui
Doha
The National Human Rights Committee of Qatar (NHRC) launched its third Human Rights Strategic Plan 2024-30, coinciding with Qatar National Human Rights Day observed under the theme ‘Human Rights - A Sustainable Force Towards A Better Future’. The third plan represents a comprehensive approach to advancing human rights within Qatar, combining sustainable practices and meaningful outcomes.
The launch was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, Minister of Labour HE Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Samikh Al Marri, Chairperson of National Human Rights Committee of Qatar HE Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, dignitaries, ambassadors, experts in human rights, and officials.
In her address, the NHRC chairperson highlighted the importance of Qatar Human Rights Day, which reflects the nation’s dedication to upholding human rights as a central, strategic priority and a key pillar of effective governance and the rule of law.
She said, "This day, observed each year on November 11 to coincide with the founding of the National Human Rights Committee, underscores the State’s appreciation for the Committee’s role in promoting and safeguarding human rights at the national level, while enhancing Qatar’s standing in international and regional human rights forums.”
She added that this year’s Qatar Human Rights Day celebration holds special significance as it aligns with a major national democratic event: the general referendum on constitutional amendments, which received the overwhelming support of Qatari citizens, stressing that this support reflects a shared belief in the amendments’ potential to enhance equal citizenship, strengthen national unity and social cohesion, and foster comprehensive development.
She stressed that through its achievements and best practices, as well as its commitment to independence, transparency, and pluralism, the National Human Rights Committee has become a beacon and model for other national human rights institutions across the Gulf, the Arab world, and globally.
The NHRC chairperson said that this standing has earned the committee an ‘A’ accreditation from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions for three consecutive sessions, spanning from 2010 to 2025. Such recognition would not have been possible without the Committee’s adherence to modern management principles and strategic planning, which emphasise future foresight and proactive preparation.
Highlighting NHRC achievements, Attiya said the committee’s journey of strategic planning began with its first plan (2011-2014) and continued through its second (2018-2022).
"Now, with the third strategic plan for 2024-2030, the committee is setting ambitious objectives for positive, results-oriented performance. This comprehensive strategy includes a range of programmes, projects, and initiatives — legal, advisory, cultural, social, and supervisory — that prioritise the rights of vulnerable groups, enhance civil society partnerships, and strengthen institutional and individual capacities,” she said.
She listed the benefits and opportunities from the thirdstrategic plan to include an enhanced framework for mobilising, coordinating, and strengthening roles within the committee to support its programmes and achieve its goals; and a clearer structure for the committee’s interactions with key stakeholders, including civil society organisations, government agencies, and international human rights bodies (both UN and non-governmental), benefiting from the committee’s transparent vision and philosophy.
Human Rights Strategic Plan
This plan underscores Qatar’s commitment to improving human rights both domestically and in alignment with international standards. It calls for a collaborative national effort to build a state characterized by strong institutions, good governance, and adherence to the rule of law, while enhancing Qatar’s position as a leader in regional and global human rights forums.
The plan’s vision emphasises a collective determination to ensure Qatar’s national human rights performance aligns with global standards. The mission focuses on contributing effectively to the improvement, protection, and promotion of human rights by empowering and engaging individuals and communities. Through partnerships, the plan seeks to uphold fundamental human values, strengthen institutional frameworks, and reinforce the rule of law. These elements are intended to foster a societal shift where human rights become embedded as an essential part of Qatar’s national identity.
Core Principles
To ensure the plan’s success, a set of guiding principles shapes its framework. These principles include realism, effectiveness, inclusiveness, and a commitment to transparency. The plan emphasises community partnerships, seeking active engagement from civil society and institutions. These principles are not only aligned with Qatar’s broader policies but are also sensitive to cultural diversity, striving for a balanced approach that respects privacy while promoting inclusivity. Through these foundational values, the plan aims to cultivate an environment of accountability and trust.