Doha, Qatar, 8 November 2026 – The Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies (CHS) hosted a public lecture by Professor Daisaku Higashi, Professor and Director of the Sophia Institute of International Relations at Sophia University, Japan. The lecture explored contemporary approaches to mediation and peacebuilding, with a particular focus on the experiences of the United States, Qatar, and Japan. The session was chaired by Professor Nadim Rouhana, Visiting Professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies.
Drawing on Professor Higashi's extensive academic and practical experience in conflict resolution, the lecture explored adaptive approaches to post-conflict peacebuilding and the importance of legitimacy and inclusivity in mediation processes. He highlighted the challenges of achieving sustainable political settlements in protracted conflicts and addressing current developments in international mediation, including approaches to the war in Ukraine, Qatar's mediation efforts concerning Gaza, his experience with Japanese mediation efforts in South Sudan, and potential diplomatic arrangements. He also discussed potential opportunities for closer mediation cooperation between Japan and Qatar.
Professor Higashi presented his recently released book, 'Mediation and Peacebuilding in an Age of Division: The Wars in Ukraine, South Sudan, and Afghanistan', published by Routledge. The book examines the evolving challenges of mediation in an increasingly fragmented international order, drawing on experiences from three major contemporary conflicts. He also reflected on his recent visits to Syria and Jordan as a UNDP consultant, during which recent political developments and the evolving regional context were among the issues of focus.
During the Question and Answer session, audience members raised questions concerning Gaza's humanitarian and political future, the role of international humanitarian institutions, and the conditions necessary for sustainable reconstruction.
The visit provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange on the evolving challenges of mediation and peacebuilding, as well as highlighting the potential for future dialogue and cooperation between Japan, Qatar, and international partners to support conflict resolution.