The State of Qatar has been quite active in providing international humanitarian aid during disasters and crises over the last two decades. Emergency relief and response with a focus on ending conflict have greatly expanded over the years. While humanitarian activities have been generous, far and little research has been conducted to inform national policies and guide humanitarian actors' activities and operations. 

Highlighting and reflecting on this gap, the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies (CHS) in partnership with the Regulatory Authority of Charitable Activities (RACA) have sought to address the issue in an online conference combining the efforts of research centers, funding institutions and humanitarian organizations. The conference was held on Tuesday, 25 May 2021, 1100 Doha Time – 0900 GMT and was moderated by Professor Sultan Barakat, Director, CHS.

A keynote address was delivered by Mr. Ibrahim Al Dehaimi, General Manager, RACA. Special contributions were made by Dr. Arne Strand, Director of the U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre, Chr Michelsen Institute (CMI), Dr. Sorcha O'Collaghan, Director of Programme, Humanitarian Policy Group (HPG), Dr. Antonio De Lauri, Director, Norwegian Centre for Humanitarian Studies (NCHS) and Dr Hatem Mhenni, Senior Program Manager, Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF). 

Statements and remarks during the humanitarian panel of the conference were made by Mr. Ibrahim Abdullah Al Malki, Chief Executive Director, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), Mr. Mohammed Al Ghamdi, Assistant CEO, Qatar Charity (QC), and Ms. Salwa Al Mannai, Head of Policy and Research, Education Above All.

The humanitarian and research environment in Qatar, with issues and strides highlighted, was introduced as a starting point in order for the international panel to offer their pointed experiences and expertise. Following our speakers' presentations, a discussion put forth by the Qatari humanitarian organizations took place. In response, meaningful discernment by the speakers took place with reasonable actionable insights and recommendations proposed.

For further information, a report will be published shortly.