Doha: The final session of the Second International Conference on Religious Freedom and Peacemaking, held in Doha today, explored the role of humanitarian organizations in peacemaking, addressing both practical realities and challenges. Speakers focused on the operational and applied efforts undertaken by these organizations to establish and sustain peace on the ground.
According to Qatar News Agency, the session emphasized that achieving peace extends beyond ending wars and conflicts; it requires sustained development, relief efforts in conflict zones, and educational initiatives that address the root causes of disputes. The speakers underscored the importance of stability, security, and the need to support vulnerable and marginalized communities affected by conflicts and their repercussions.
Discussions highlighted experiences and case studies from charitable, voluntary, and relief organizations, examining their challenges and contributions to fostering peace, enhancing mutual understanding, and creating opportunities for peaceful coexistence among societies.
Assistant CEO for Governance and External Relations at Qatar Charity, Mohammed bin Ali Al Ghamdi, emphasized the organization’s critical role in humanitarian aid, noting its field presence in 36 countries many of which are affected by conflict and humanitarian crises. He highlighted how Qatar Charity’s continuous efforts have brought it closer to affected communities, enabling it to respond effectively to their needs.
Al Ghamdi stressed that humanitarian organizations should remain neutral in conflicts and political disputes, instead focusing on fostering and strengthening peace, which is a long-term, multi-stage process. He also underscored the necessity of humanitarian interventions in transforming lives in conflict zones and reinforcing stability.
Mohammed Al Kandari, a relief activist and media consultant at the Kuwait Relief Society, and Omar Al-Thuwaini, the Society’s Deputy Director General, spoke about Kuwait’s extensive experience in humanitarian relief. They discussed the logistical challenges faced by humanitarian organizations and strategies to overcome them. They also emphasized that humanitarian work goes beyond providing immediate aid it plays a crucial role in promoting long-term peace and stability by supporting reconstruction and sustainable development efforts.
Vice President and Founder of the International Council for Relief and Development, Dr. Dahan Ali Al Najjar, highlighted the impact of relief organizations in alleviating poverty in conflict-affected areas. Using Yemen as a case study, he described how these organizations serve as vital bridges between marginalized communities, governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector. He also outlined the challenges facing humanitarian efforts in Yemen, particularly in light of ongoing instability.
From the United States, Susan Portor underscored the importance of relief programs in peacebuilding, particularly those focused on supporting women and children. She stressed that investing in children’s education and well-being equips them to become future decision-makers and peacemakers.
Ahmed Shehata, Executive Director of Islamic Relief USA, discussed key challenges in the relief sector and emphasized the importance of adopting a strategic approach that prioritizes resource-sharing to support future generations.
Moderated by Dr. Mohamed El Sanousi from the United States, the session, titled “Humanitarian Organizations and Their Role in Peacemaking: Reality and Practices,” was a key component of the Second International Conference on Religious Freedom and Peacemaking.