New york: HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, participated in the opening segment of a high-level dialogue focused on “Copenhagen to Doha: Tackling Vulnerability and Exploitation Linked to Sport.” This event was organized by Qatar in partnership with the Principality of Monaco, the International Organization for Migration, and Mission 89, and took place on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development.
According to Qatar News Agency, Her Excellency emphasized the importance of the dialogue, which follows the adoption of the “Doha Political Declaration.” This declaration highlights sport’s role in promoting inclusion, social cohesion, sustainable development, and its integration into national policies. Sheikha Alya noted that investment in sports infrastructure, youth engagement programs, and expanding inclusive access are essential pillars for eradicating poverty, ensuring decent work, and promoting social inclusion.
The dialogue aims to address practices undermining the integrity of sport and the need for collective action and innovative solutions to eliminate exploitation. This includes tackling human trafficking through sport, protecting youth, and fostering safe environments that instill discipline, teamwork, and fair play.
Furthermore, Sheikha Alya underlined Qatar’s belief in sport as a critical element of the social development agenda. She described sport as a tool for promoting peace, sustainable development, cultural exchange, and for encouraging healthy lifestyles, preventing violence, creating job opportunities, and combating crime and drug abuse.
Qatar’s Permanent Representative highlighted that sport is a core pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, aimed at advancing human development, empowering youth, promoting social inclusion, and encouraging healthy living. Qatar’s investments in sports infrastructure have positioned it as a global hub for major international sporting events.
Additionally, Her Excellency noted Qatar’s commitment to the United Nations agenda on sport, including the biennial submission of a draft resolution with Monaco titled “Sport: a global accelerator of peace and sustainable development.” Qatar also supports the Group of Friends on Sport for Development and Peace to strengthen multilateral cooperation.
In conclusion, Sheikha Alya reiterated Qatar’s dedication to global partnerships promoting safe and inclusive sports for youth, ensuring their protection from exploitation, and empowering them in secure environments. She affirmed Qatar’s commitment to ensuring sport remains a tool for uplifting and safeguarding children and young people worldwide.