Qatar, Arab League Seek to Strengthen Efforts to Uphold Humanitarian Law

Qatar and the League of Arab States have discussed ways to strengthen regional cooperation in promoting and implementing international humanitarian law (IHL), with particular emphasis on supporting national efforts across Arab countries.

HE Saeed bin Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of Qatar’s Ministry of Justice, Chairman of the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law and Chairman of the Arab Permanent Committee for International Humanitarian Law, met HE Nabil Fahmy, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, on the sidelines of a workshop on implementing international humanitarian law at the national level in Cairo.

The discussions focused on the work programme of the Arab Permanent Committee for International Humanitarian Law and measures to strengthen its regional role in promoting humanitarian principles, raising public awareness and encouraging a broader understanding of the rules governing the law.

The two sides also considered ways to support Arab countries in translating international humanitarian law obligations into national policies and practices, reinforcing efforts to ensure its effective application and implementation. 

Fahmy welcomed Qatar’s chairmanship of the Arab Permanent Committee, expressing the League’s support for its activities and objectives. He also affirmed his commitment to providing the necessary resources to help the committee carry out its responsibilities and expand its regional contribution.

The committee aims to consolidate the principles of international humanitarian law and promote awareness of its provisions across Arab states. Strengthening its work is expected to support regional cooperation and help member countries advance the implementation of humanitarian law at the national level.