Doha Forum 2024
Central Asia and the New Era of Global Energy Security
As geopolitics are causing energy landscape to be redrawn, Central Asia is set to become a key players in the global competition for energy security, potentially changing geopolitical dynamics and altering power structures. Endowed with vast natural resources and a strategic geographic location, Central Asia’s rise as a key regional player will extend beyond the energy sector providing both risks and opportunities for regional stability and political influence. How might this role reshape Central Asian countries’ relationships with major powers such as China, Russia, and the European Union? And how can these countries maximize the impact of this opportunity?
In partnership with: Astana International Forum
Partner:
The 'New Space' Era: Competition and Technological Innovation
'New space' and a new space race has arrived. Technological innovations in micro-electronics, and manufacturing, alongside the massive reduction in launch costs have all contributed to this promising new epoch. The space domain offers new opportunities, but it also reflects terrestrial geopolitics. The same competitive dynamics occurring on earth are taking place in orbit, with significant national security, economic prosperity, and social implications. This session will look at trends in the 'new space' era, how nations benefit from and manifest technological developments, and how space innovation can fuel geopolitical tensions and cooperation. It will highlight use cases of space-based technology and the broader strategic dynamics in the space environment.
In partnership with: Australian Strategic Policy Institute
Partner:
The Future of US Strategy in the Middle East Following the 2024 Election
In the midst of regional volatility, roiling politics, a shifting economic and technological landscape, and disruptive and new regional alliances, questions are mounting over the future of US strategy in the Middle East under President-elect Trump. Washington, considered the main security partner by regional powers, is under increasing pressure to also help drive stability and set clearer goals for its forthcoming policy in the Middle East. The devastation of the Israel-Hamas war and the humanitarian crisis it has wrought in Gaza sustained, heightened tensions between Israel and its Western and Iran, and the commercial implications of non-state actors such as the Houthis will immediately impact and challenge the Trump administration’s approach to regional crises demanding attention. Prior to the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, the US priority in the Middle East was increasing ties and alliances between Arab states and Israel to usher in a new era of strategic advantage for the US in a more peaceful region that would also enable Washington sufficient bandwidth to focus on the rising challenge of the People’s Republic of China. That goal, despite the current conflict, remains very much alive for President-elect Trump, who will almost also certainly seek to advance the Abraham Accords, counter Iran’s influence, and bolster a regional coalition as the strategy and main foundation for long-term peace. Will the Trump administration seek to resolve the conflict in Gaza, and if so, how? Of it does not prioritize so, what are the implications for Palestine, Israel, and the region? What will be President-elect Trump’s strategic approach to the region, and will his original term be at all a model for this new one? Is a political solution for Israel-Palestine further or closer than ever and what role should the US be playing to foster one? What do regional states want from the US under a second Trump administration? And is the expansion of the Abraham Accords contingent on such a solution?
In partnership with: Atlantic Council
Partner:
Adapting Security to Today’s Digital World (invitation only)
Technological advancements in security emphasize the continuous development of tools, frameworks, and methodologies to protect digital and physical assets from a broad range of emerging threats. As organizations increasingly rely on interconnected systems and digital infrastructures, security challenges have grown in both complexity and sophistication. Meeting these challenges requires the integration of advanced technologies, such as encryption, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and biometric authentication, to enhance threat detection, prevention, and response capabilities. Achieving effective security requires proactive risk management alongside continual adaptation of security practices to address new vulnerabilities and comply with evolving regulatory standards. With cyber threats becoming ever more sophisticated and widespread, a resilient security strategy calls for a holistic, adaptive approach—one that combines technological innovation with strategic planning to ensure the resilience, integrity, and confidentiality of critical systems and data.
In partnership with: Ministry of Defense
In partnership with: Ministry of Defense
Partner:
Promoting Dialogue and Diversity Through Art
Museums and artists play a key role in promoting cross-cultural dialogue, providing essential support for cultural diplomacy. Through exhibitions that reflect diverse histories and perspectives, museums have positioned themselves as mediators of cultural discourse. With the upcoming opening of the Lusail Museum in Doha, which will feature one of the world’s top collections of Orientalist art and serve as a hub for East-West dialogue, the panel will reveal how museums' traditional roles have evolved. Artists, too, play a crucial part in bridging cultural divides and expressing plurality in ways that transcend language, geography, and politics. The discussion will feature examples of how artists promote dialogue and how museums leverage their collections and programming to stimulate cultural exchange and collaboration on a global scale, offering innovative strategies for engagement and creating a more interconnected world.
In partnership with: Qatar Museums
In partnership with: Qatar Museums
Partner:
Bangladesh at a Crossroads: Governance, Democratic Reform, and the Path Forward Post-Sheikh Hasina
After over a decade in power, Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, spurred by a wave of youth-led protests, marks a pivotal turning point for Bangladesh. The country’s young population, increasingly vocal and influential, played a critical role in shaping this outcome, signaling a new era of potential transformation for the nation. In this session, we will address how young activists, and future leaders can play a role in the political renewal of the country and shape its governance in the aftermath of a political era marked by strongman leadership. We will discuss the prospects for a political transition including democratic reform, the challenges of establishing an interim government, and the path toward a more inclusive political future. Panelists, including Bangladeshi activists, international lawyers, and political experts will discuss how Bangladesh can strengthen its democratic institutions while preventing political violence and authoritarian backsliding and ask how domestic actors and international partners can help guide Bangladesh towards a stable political future.
In partnership with: Jagoron Foundation
Partner:
Evolving Jurisdictions of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, this panel will explore the crucial roles of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in promoting the rule of law. Considering recent global conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Palestine-Israel, the importance of these international judicial bodies has become increasingly evident. Panelists will discuss how the ICC and ICJ address complex legal issues arising from conflicts, uphold international law and contribute to global justice. The discussion will cover their distinct functions and jurisdictions, focusing on their responses to war crimes, territorial disputes, and breaches of international humanitarian law. Additionally, the panel will highlight how these courts navigate evolving legal standards and enforce international law amid geopolitical tensions.
This session will examine the ICC and ICJ's capabilities to engage with ongoing conflicts, considering legal frameworks, jurisdictional limitations, and the need for international cooperation. It will emphasize the importance of global participation in governance to maintain peace and security, protect human rights, and ensure accountability for international crimes.
In partnership with: Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Center
Partner:
The Future of Work Is Upon Us. Who’s Ready?
Around the world, rapid technological advancements are reshaping work, creating new opportunities while presenting significant challenges. This session, hosted in partnership with the International Labour Organization, will explore how these innovations can enhance productivity and working conditions while raising vital questions about labor market disruptions and evolving skill requirements. By addressing issues like lifelong learning, inclusive labor policies, and transparent HR strategies, participants will delve into the pathways for achieving a just digital transition. The discussion will also cover how technology can bridge skill gaps, support fair workforce strategies, and unlock new forms of work.
In partnership with: Ministry of Labour
Partner:
Towards Durable Peace in Sudan: Strategies for Turning a Ceasefire into Lasting Stability (invitation only)
This closed-door roundtable will focus on Sudan’s path to enduring peace, examining the critical steps required to transition from a ceasefire to a stable, long-term peace framework. While a comprehensive peace agreement remains the ultimate goal, the discussion will consider concrete suggestions for how to implement a ceasefire on the ground. Participants will explore how to integrate humanitarian aid, security guarantees, and economic support for reconstruction into a unified strategy that fosters sustainable stability. This session seeks to develop actionable ideas for a more secure and resilient Sudan, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals.
In partnership with: International Crisis Group
In partnership with: International Crisis Group
Partner:
Accountability and the Axis of Resistance (invitation only)
Conflict dynamics in the Middle East have seen significant shifts over the last months. The ‘Axis of Resistance’ which includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas in Palestine and groups in Syria and Iraq, together tied to Iran – have been collaborating in a transnational way. Their activities, interconnectivity and cooperation across borders is bearing out at the expense of economic and regional stability and populations’ security across the region. This closed-door session will examine the goals and motivations of these groups and assess what local, regional and international mechanisms can be used to promote accountability.
In partnership with: Chatham House
Partner:
Palestine: Building Consensus, Solidifying Alliances, and Charting a Political Path
This roundtable examines the potential for a unifying Palestinian political vision that embraces diverse perspectives while focusing on shared goals. Speakers will explore what constitutes a national consensus for Palestinians across territories and the diaspora. Central to this discussion is how to consolidate existing initiatives into a cohesive, strategic framework that can revitalize the Palestinian political movement. The session will consider how support for Palestinian political renewal might emerge from state powers in the Global South, intersectional solidarity movements, and other allies in broader international networks to challenge the vision of an ethno-nationalist state in Palestine.
In partnership with: Georgetown University in Qatar
In partnership with: Georgetown University in Qatar
Partner:
Sport as a Force for Sustainable Development in the MENA Region
As the global community continues to seek innovative solutions to development challenges, sport has emerged as a powerful tool for addressing critical issues in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This panel, hosted in collaboration with the International Platform on Sport and Development, will bring together leading experts and practitioners who have successfully harnessed the power of sport to drive social change. The discussion will explore how sport-based programs have been utilized to address pressing challenges such as youth unemployment, educational disparities, and gender inequality, while simultaneously promoting peace, resilience, and social cohesion in conflict-affected areas. This session will serve as a dynamic platform for participants to showcase impactful projects, exchange best practices, and explore strategies for scaling up sport-based interventions to contribute toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals across the MENA region.
In partnership with: Qatar Fund for Development
In partnership with: Qatar Fund for Development
Partner:
US-China Dynamic and the Future of Collaborative Security in Regional Stability
Regional security frameworks and their multilateral institutions are increasingly being tested by competition between the US and China. Divergent state interests have led to deadlocks that paralyze progress on pressing security issues such as climate change and emerging technology. In this international milieu, how can nations rejuvenate existing regional security architectures to ensure national interests?
In partnership with: S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS)
In partnership with: S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS)
Partner:
Leveraging Science and Tech Innovations for Diplomacy
Pressing global challenges like pandemics, climate change, food insecurity, and water scarcity, are magnifying the need for international cooperation. Too often though, advanced technology is protected as a national resource, sowing divisions and distrust and creating barriers to advancing work on global crises.
Innovation diplomacy offers a powerful tool by leveraging advancements in scientific research and technological development to promote dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving between nations. As seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, accelerated collaboration between regulators, scientists, and industries across borders opened new avenues for international cooperation.
This panel will ask how we can reframe thinking around advancements in technology and what is needed to put innovation diplomacy into practice. Experts from industry, government and science will weigh in on the potential avenues for cooperation as well as the roles non-state actors can play.
In partnership with: Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council
Partner:
Pre Event Session: Global Order: Which Principles Should Shape Our Future?
What kind of future should we create? This debate goes beyond politics to explore the deeper philosophical ideas underpinning the systems that define our world today. From critiques of modernity to competing civilizational visions, leading thinkers will confront the fundamental beliefs that shape tomorrow's world order. In this debate we explore how these diverse visions might build a better world.
In partnership with: Doha Debates
In partnership with: Doha Debates
Partner:
Post Event Session: Doha World Negotiation Day (by registration only)
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and ADN Group, in partnership with the Doha Forum, are proud to announce Doha Doha World Negotiation Day Negotiation Day that will take place on December 9th 2024 (15:00 - 18:00).
Uniting some of the world’s most renowned contributors to peaceful negotiations and conflict resolution, Doha World Negotiation Day will provide a high-level forum to discuss the role of negotiation in today’s challenging world, offering valuable perspectives on emerging challenges and opportunities in the field. During this event, participants will have the chance to attend two high level panels from esteemed officials from international organizations, national governments, and the private sector on ‘International Negotiation in an Age of Disruption’ and ‘Bilateral Negotiations’. The event will conclude by bestowing the “Doha Best Negotiator of the Year” Award - a prestigious distinction given to one exceptional negotiator who has displayed exemplary skills and achievements on the international stage. After the event we invite you to join us for a cocktail reception.
The event is open to the public upon registration - to attend in-person or online please register here.
In partnership with: United Nations Institute for Training and Research
Partner:
The Innovation Imperative: Governing Technology for Global Development
In partnership with: Stimson Center
Toward Stability in Lebanon
Innovative Solutions to Common Health Challenges in the Global South (invitation only)
In partnership with: Gates Foundation
Competitiveness in the Era of Intelligent Economies
In partnership with: Ministry of Finance and World Economic Forum
BRICS and the Future of the Multilateral Order
In partnership with: Center for China and Globalization
A Future Rewritten: How the Taliban’s Vice and Virtue Law Could Reshape Afghanistan
In partnership with: United States Institute of Peace
Fifteen Years of Crisis in Syria: Revitalizing Diplomatic Efforts and Humanitarian Response
In partnership with: Middle East Institute
The Role of Cultural Dialogue in Promoting Peaceful Coexistence
The Power of Platforms: The Increased Role of Social Influencers in Global Crises
In partnership with: International Media Office
Global Stakes in the New Phase of the War in Ukraine
In partnership with: European Council on Foreign Relations
Resilience and Innovation: Supporting Women and Girls in Conflict and Post Conflict Situations
In partnership with: United Nations and Qatar Fund for Development
Shifting Arab Public Opinion and the Gaza War
In partnership with: Middle East Council on Global Affairs
Where Have All the Peace Deals Gone?
In partnership with: International Crisis Group
Transformative Diplomatic Strategies for Contemporary Geopolitical Challenges
In partnership with: Center for International Policy Research
Upholding International Law through Technology: Delivering Education in Conflict Zones
In partnership with: Qatar University
What It Takes: Advancing the UN’s Pact for the Future for Global Peace and Sustainable Development
In partnership with: United Nations & International Peace Institute
From Challenges to Change: Enhancing Global South Health through Collaboration
In partnership with: Gates Foundation and Middle East Council on Global Affairs
Could a Coordinated Humanitarian Diplomacy Strategy Transform Crisis Response Worldwide?
In partnership with: Qatar Red Crescent Society
The Power of Culture: Global Diplomacy in the 21st Century
In partnership with: Qatar Museums
At Times of War: Preserving Space for Mediation (invitation only)
In partnership with: Oslo Forum
The Internationalization of Education in Turbulent Times: Understanding the Opportunities, Challenges, and Risks
In partnership with: Qatar Foundation
From Resolution to Action: Tools for Justice in Palestine
In partnership with: U.S. / Middle East Project
Fostering Economic Security: Striking the Balance Between Global Cooperation and Tech Sovereignty
In partnership with: Japan Institute of International Affairs
Uniting for Change: A Global Alliance Against Poverty and Hunger
In partnership with: Fundação Getulio Vargas
Global Business in a Multipolar World
EU – Iran Dialogue on Regional Stability (invitation only)
In partnership with: Center for International Policy Research
The Innovation Imperative: Governing Technology for Global Peace & Security
In partnership with: Stimson Center
The Syria Strategy Project: A Multilateral Approach to Resolving a Frozen Conflict (invitation only)
In partnership with: Middle East Institute
The Global Impact of Humanitarian Diplomacy: A Path to Addressing Global Conflicts and Humanitarian Challenges
In partnership with: United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
What Progress is Possible After the Year of Elections?
In partnership with: Chatham House
East Asian Roles in Middle East Peace and Conflict Resolution
In partnership with: Jeju Peace Institute
Cryptocurrency and Artificial Intelligence: The New Tools of Cybercrime?
Humanitarian Engagement with Non-State Armed Groups (invitation only)
In partnership with: Middle East Council on Global Affairs and Qatar Charity
Taking the Stand: Strengthening International Humanitarian Law and Accountability
In partnership with: Munich Security Conference
The Crisis in Arms Control and Multilateralism
In partnership with: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute
Prospects for Cooperation in a Fragmented World
Post Event Session: Qatar Mediation Forum (invitation only)
In partnership with: Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies
Post Event Session: Palestine’s Path Forward: Operationalizing Vehicles of Accountability (invitation only)
In partnership with: U.S. / Middle East Project and Middle East Council on Global Affairs