Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, has underscored the nation’s commitment to using sport as a tool for social development and protecting young athletes from exploitation. Speaking at a high-level dialogue in New York, she highlighted the need for collective action to ensure sport remains a positive force for youth globally. The event was organised by Qatar in partnership with Monaco, the International Organization for Migration, and Mission 89.
The Doha Declaration’s Mandate
Sheikha Alya explained that the dialogue was held at a critical time, following the adoption of the “Doha Political Declaration.” In this declaration, world leaders affirmed the transformative role of sport in promoting social cohesion and sustainable development. She noted that the document emphasised investment in sports infrastructure and youth engagement as key pillars for achieving social progress. The declaration’s goals include eradicating poverty, ensuring decent work, and promoting social inclusion, aligning with broader international commitments where the world commits in Doha to eradicate poverty.
Tackling Exploitation in Sport
The dialogue aimed to address practices that undermine the integrity and social purpose of sport. Sheikha Alya stressed that challenges such as human trafficking through sport require innovative solutions and collective action from the international community. She called for robust frameworks to protect children and young people, fostering safe and inclusive environments that nurture discipline, teamwork, and fair play for future generations.
A Pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030
Her Excellency reaffirmed that sport is a core pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, which seeks to advance human development and empower youth. She described sport as an effective tool for promoting peace, building cultural bridges, and encouraging healthy lifestyles. As part of this vision, Qatar has made substantial investments in sports infrastructure and has established itself as a global hub for hosting major international sporting events, such as the Second Edition of Qatar Boat Show. These initiatives help create job opportunities, empower young people, and combat social issues like crime and drug abuse.
Global Cooperation and Diplomacy
Qatar’s commitment extends to the international stage. Sheikha Alya highlighted that Qatar, along with the Principality of Monaco, submits a biennial draft resolution to the UN titled “Sport: a global accelerator of peace and sustainable development.” The nation also actively supports the Group of Friends on Sport for Development and Peace, which works to strengthen multilateral cooperation in this field.
These ongoing efforts reflect Qatar’s dedication to global partnerships and international cooperation. Sheikha Alya concluded by affirming Qatar’s pledge to promote safe pathways for youth in sports, ensuring they are protected from exploitation and empowered to fulfil their potential in a secure environment.
