22nd Doha Forum Kicks Off With Focus on Afghanistan
The 22nd session of the Doha Forum commenced (Saturday) in the Qatari capital with the participation of representatives from over 100 countries, including diplomats and high-ranking officials.
Rosa Otunbayeva, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), described the decree banning medical education for girls as an irreversible act during the session.
The forum also discussed the Ministry of Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice under the Islamic Emirate.
The head of the UNAMA office in Afghanistan stated: “Polio is in only two countries, including Afghanistan, and sadly, the leadership has stopped medical education. It is very regrettable.”
Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative for UNAMA, said: “The UN is monitoring and documenting very closely the implementation of PVPV (Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice) law across the country. And yes there are variations in how in how it is being implemented, and you see and you can hear that from the different interactions we are having, but our monitoring at this point unfortunately shows that the enforcement is becoming kind of stricter in many places.”
Political analyst Moeen Gul Samakni remarked: “It is essential for this issue to be examined within Afghanistan, and religious scholars should deliberate on it, not individuals from other countries who lack proper understanding.”
Another segment of the forum included the presentation of awards to journalists who have bravely pursued truth through their reporting.
Sadaf Popalzai, head of Arman and Arakozia Radios, received the 2024 Doha Forum Award on behalf of the Moby Group.
Upon receiving the award, Sadaf Popalzai said: “This award has been given to me this year on behalf of Afghanistan, particularly Moby Group. Furthermore, I dedicate it to the women who work in various fields. If they continue their efforts, they too will witness such moments.”
Representatives from over 100 countries have convened at this forum to address global challenges. On the second day, discussions are set to focus on international issues.
