International Academy for Women Leaders on Leadership in Digital Era Begins in Doha

Doha, November 17 (QNA) – The second session of the International Academy for Women Leaders, themed “Leadership in the Digital Era,” began in Doha today, drawing high-level local, regional, and global participation. The event is organized by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), the Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions (ANNHRIs), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

In her opening remarks, HE Chairperson of NHRC and ANNHRIs, Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, highlighted the critical role of women’s empowerment in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasized the importance of women’s inclusion in policymaking and decision-making processes, particularly in the digital age. HE Al Attiyah underlined the link between women’s leadership and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, advocating for their active roles in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and recovery efforts.

HE Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al Sulaiti, commended Qatar’s initiative in hosting this global event, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to international peace and security. She called for increased partnerships and training programs to enhance women’s leadership capabilities and address challenges such as marginalization, conflict burdens, and societal discrimination.

The Israeli aggression in Gaza was a focal point in Dr. Al Sulaiti’s speech, where she condemned ongoing violence and highlighted UN reports indicating that 70% of verified casualties in Gaza are women and children. She called for international accountability for the humanitarian crisis.

HE Secretary-General of ANNHRIs, Sultan bin Hassan Al Jamali, stressed the importance of national institutions in promoting women’s rights through awareness, policy review, and legislative advocacy. He underscored the role of training programs in fostering women’s political, economic, and cultural participation.

Martha Pobee, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, addressed the opportunities and challenges of rapid technological advancements, emphasizing the need to bridge the digital divide to prevent further inequality and violence against women. She warned of the risks posed by social media misuse and generative AI in spreading misinformation and online abuse, calling for gender-sensitive policies to tackle these issues.

Shatha Alawneh, representing GIZ, highlighted barriers faced by women in adapting to the digital age. She emphasized the initiative’s significance in equipping women with skills and networks to assume leadership roles in the Arab world and beyond.

The event serves as a platform to exchange expertise, foster collaboration, and amplify women’s voices in public life, promoting a more inclusive, sustainable future.