Doha, Qatar: Director of the Al Jazeera Center for Public Liberties and Human Rights Sami Al-Haj, underscored the critical importance of unified societal efforts to confront drug-related challenges, particularly those targeting youth.
Speaking to The Peninsula on the sidelines of the Fourth National Human Rights Forum held in Doha, Al-Haj said the forum comes at a highly significant time, as societies face growing threats aimed at young people, whom he described as the cornerstone and future of any nation.
He emphasized that addressing the problem of drugs requires the concerted efforts of all sectors, including civil society, the media, judicial and criminal justice institutions, the press, and healthcare providers.
“These challenges are complex and demand collective responsibility to correct the course, develop effective solutions, and issue practical recommendations that safeguard youth and ensure a better future,” Al-Haj noted, adding that the forum represents an important platform for launching initiatives that contribute to this national and societal mission.
Commenting on the role of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) which orgnaised the Forum, Al-Haj praised its “remarkable and tangible” efforts at the local, Gulf, and international levels.
He highlighted the committee’s proactive engagement with pressing human rights challenges, noting that its work encompasses a wide range of issues, from drug-related risks to the protection of journalists and media professionals.
“The NHRC has a clear internal and external impact, and its contributions are well recognized,” he said, stressing that the committee plays a vital role in accompanying the State of Qatar in addressing both domestic and international human rights concerns.
Al-Haj also commended Qatar’s growing global influence, noting that the country has become an indispensable actor in policy-making and peace-building efforts. He cited Qatar’s diplomatic initiatives in addressing complex regional and international issues.
