rki.news

The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) of Qatar announced preparations to convene the Fourth National Human Rights Forum on January 20–21, 2026, under the theme “Human Rights at the Heart of Drug Control: Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Solutions.” The forum will be held in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with several ministries, institutions, and specialized national bodies, and with broad participation from United Nations agencies, as well as regional and international organizations.
The selected theme reflects growing global challenges arising from the expansion of drug trafficking and the increasing rates of drug use, as highlighted in international reports. These trends pose serious threats to fundamental human rights, notably the right to life, the right to the highest attainable standard of health, and the right to an adequate standard of living, while also hindering progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
While Qatar remains largely insulated from severe drug-related risks due to robust legislation, public policies, and effective measures to combat trafficking and smuggling networks, the forum underscores the importance of continuously strengthening these frameworks. Enhancing institutional resilience is essential to keep pace with evolving global challenges and increasingly sophisticated methods of drug promotion and smuggling.
The forum aims to promote a comprehensive, human rights–based approach to drug control legislation, public policies, enforcement measures, treatment, rehabilitation, and the social reintegration of individuals affected by drug use. These efforts align with Qatar’s Permanent Constitution, Qatar National Vision 2030, and the country’s international human rights obligations.
Special sessions will address emerging risks, including the unethical use of artificial intelligence and new technologies in expanding drug trafficking networks. Additional panels will focus on youth engagement, recognizing young people as active partners in shaping prevention strategies, and on the critical role of media in awareness, prevention, recovery, and social reintegration.
The forum is expected to produce actionable recommendations, reinforce national vigilance, and contribute to establishing a sustainable national platform for drug awareness, while showcasing Qatar’s globally recognized model in prevention and control.