Doha: HE Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani, has called on international leaders from various sectors to form a global coalition aimed at advancing social development through sport. This initiative was proposed during a high-level dialogue hosted by Qatar Foundation and Wilton Park.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event, themed 'Sport for Development in the Global South: Advancing Female Empowerment, Inclusion, and Accessibility', spanned three days and focused on addressing the exclusion of women and girls from existing sporting systems. Discussions highlighted necessary changes in policy, research, finance, infrastructure, coaching, and athletic pathways to promote inclusivity.
The gathering brought together diverse stakeholders including policymakers, development practitioners, rights advocates, multilateral development banks, NGOs, and sport administrators to explore the role of the Global South in shaping international priorities and crafting community-oriented solutions. Wilton Park and Qatar Foundation will collaborate on a policy brief to outline strategies for eliminating barriers preventing marginalized groups from accessing sports.
Her Excellency Sheikha Hind emphasized the need for a coalition to transform commitments into actionable outcomes, drawing on a 2025 United Nations resolution that recognizes sport as a human right and a means of empowering women and girls globally. The resolution, initiated by Qatar with support from countries such as Indonesia and Morocco, has gained co-sponsorship from 71 countries.
Sheikha Hind pointed out the unique challenges faced by women and girls in sports, including safety risks, stigma, and inadequate research. She advocated for closing the gap by involving women in facility design, offering coaching tailored to their needs, and building a robust research foundation for women's sports.
Highlighting sport's potential as a developmental tool, she noted its ability to foster confidence, mobility, leadership, and opportunities, especially in impoverished communities. However, she underscored the structural and cultural barriers that persist, calling for a deliberate coalition of partners to advance shared goals.
Dr. Khalilur Rahman, President-Elect of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, underscored the transformative power of sport for girls in the Global South, emphasizing its role in fostering leadership and challenging gender norms. He advocated for inclusive partnerships to support the UN's 2030 agenda and human rights initiatives.
HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Dr. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, stressed the importance of equal participation for women and girls with disabilities in sports, advocating for their involvement in program and policy design. She highlighted sport's role in empowerment and independence.
Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti, Director General of Qatar Fund For Development, emphasized sport's potential to drive sustainable development and peace, advocating for innovative financing and collective action to create long-term opportunities for marginalized communities.
The dialogue featured sessions on inclusion and accessibility in sports, with contributions from notable figures such as David Evangelista, CEO of the Special Olympics, and Kristina Molloy, Deputy CEO of the International Paralympic Committee. Qatar Foundation's commitment to advancing sports opportunities for women and girls was reaffirmed, demonstrating its leadership in regional and international initiatives.