Politics Through Art… Sudan at the Heart of Doha

By Dr. Mervat Ibrahim

Yesterday in Doha, the “Politics Through Art for Sudan” conference was inaugurated under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Moza bint Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of the Qatar Museums Board of Trustees, alongside Her Excellency Lolwah Al-Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, and His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani, with the participation of prominent intellectuals, artists, academics, and diplomats.

The conference highlighted that art is no longer merely an aesthetic expression but a high-level diplomatic and political tool that strengthens dialogue and solidarity among peoples, particularly in addressing critical humanitarian issues, foremost among them the sisterly nation of Sudan.

Her Excellency Sheikha Moza’s presence carried special significance, as she is not only a patron of art and culture in Qatar but also a global voice in education and humanitarian development. She has supported Sudan through heritage restoration projects such as the Meroë pyramids, initiatives via the Education Above All Foundation to provide schooling for children deprived of education, and by raising international awareness of their plight.

Minister Lolwah Al-Khater emphasized that education and art are complementary wings of development, while His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud affirmed that investing in culture and art is an investment in peace and sustainable development.

The Qatar–Sudan relationship is deep and fraternal, rooted in Arab and Islamic solidarity, reflected in support for education, health, culture, and infrastructure, making Qatar truly a “Kabat Al-Madyoum” – a refuge for those in need and the oppressed.

The conference resonated widely with attendees, bringing together politics and art to send a message of solidarity from Doha to Sudan: You are not alone.

This remarkable inauguration reaffirmed Doha as a center for cultural and political dialogue, placing art in the service of major causes for the Arab world, foremost among them the sisterly nation of Sudan.