File photo used for representation only.
Doha, Qatar: A panel of experts at Doha Forum 2023 yesterday provided insights into challenges, successes, and areas for improvement for humanitarian work in conflict zones.
The session on ‘Shaping Peace: Integrated Pathways for Conflict Prevention, Humanitarian Action, and Peace building’ had a special emphasis on the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Permanent Representative of Qatar to the United Nations, H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed Saif Al Thani in a video message highlighted Qatar's role in mediation and humanitarian work done with UN and other partners in Gaza.
“As you’re aware, the situation in Gaza has escalated for un-imaginary level… The situation in Gaza is significantly impacting international peace and security. As an active member of the UN, our primary objective is to put an end to the bloodshed and the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by our brothers and sisters in Gaza,” she said.
Sheikha Alya said, “Qatar remains steadfast in its position for justice for the Palestinian people. In its efforts to promote regional peace and security, Qatar has always played an active role in mediating and de escalation of conflicts by facilitating ceasefire in the Gaza strip.”
“We will continue working with all our partners until a permanent ceasefire is achieved,” she said.
The panel also featured Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and of Defense of Ecuador, former President of the UN General Assembly, Maria Fernanda Espinosa; President of the 77th Session of the UNGA and Member of the Board of Patrons of the World Sustainability Forum, Csaba Kőrösi; Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, Achim Steiner; President of the International Peace Institute, former UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, Prince Zeid Raad Al Hussein; and Deputy Executive Director, Humanitarian Action and Supply Operations, Unicef, Ted Chaiban.
Panellists underscored that in today’s turbulent world, where fault lines can quickly escalate into conflicts with far-reaching consequences, the UN’s functions in conflict prevention, mediation, peacekeeping, and humanitarian aid are paramount. The effectiveness of these efforts often hinges on the balance between the UN’s mandated role and varying public perceptions of its actions.
Prince Zeid Raad Al Hussein suggested recommendations including that UN needs to be a voice that is noticed. “To be a voice that is heard and recognised needs more consistency.”
He also suggested that humanitarian action of UN should be effective, should concentrate on peace building and have integration.
