To strengthen collaboration in humanitarian work, humanitarian diplomacy, and scientific research, the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies (CHS) and the Humanitarian Relief Foundation for Human Rights and Freedoms (IHH) signed a cooperation agreement on 10 December at CHS headquarters in Doha. Through this agreement, the two institutions aim to build a partnership that combines IHH's field expertise with the Center's specialized academic knowledge, to deepen understanding of the challenges posed by humanitarian crises and the development of practical, sustainable solutions.
The cooperation focuses on strengthening academic and research work in the fields of humanitarian work, crisis management, and humanitarian diplomacy, while linking field experience with scientific studies to serve peacebuilding processes and sustainable development. It also aims to develop joint initiatives that contribute to more effective responses to humanitarian crises.
Dr. Ghassan Elkahlout, Director of the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies, emphasized that "this partnership will contribute to raising the standards of humanitarian work, strengthening the capacities of humanitarian practitioners, and jointly contributing to ongoing discussions regarding the future of humanitarian work." The cooperation includes the organization of joint conferences, seminars, and workshops on issues of mutual interest, particularly in the fields of humanitarian work, humanitarian diplomacy, and human rights. The cooperation also encompasses the development of training programmes targeting humanitarian practitioners to enhance their skills and support research and development pathways in the fields of relief and humanitarian diplomacy.
Mr. Ahmet Göksun, Secretary General of the IHH Foundation, stated that "under the cooperation agreement signed today, the academic expertise of the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies in the areas of negotiation, conflict resolution, and humanitarian work converges with the practical field-based experience of the Humanitarian Relief Foundation. Accordingly, through joint academic studies, field research, and training programs, both parties aim to promote knowledge exchange, build capacity in the humanitarian sector, and develop more effective solutions to regional crises." He added that this partnership will open new horizons in humanitarian diplomacy and support peace and stability in the region.
This agreement reflects both parties' commitment to supporting efforts aimed at protecting human rights, improving the effectiveness of humanitarian work, and contributing to a positive and sustainable impact on affected communities around the world, within the framework of expanding cooperation between academic and humanitarian institutions.