Qatar Charity concludes UNGA81 participation with new partnerships and a call for a more inclusive humanitarian system

Qatar Charity wrapped up its week-long involvement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGAS81) in New York, forging new alliances and advocating for a more inclusive humanitarian system. Chief Executive Officer Yousuf bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari led the Qatar Charity delegation in high-profile events and discussions with UN agencies, international NGOs, foundations, and development partners.

The delegation's focus was on enhancing global South leadership, promoting localisation, diversifying humanitarian funding, safeguarding children and women and girls, encouraging responsible innovation, and establishing partnerships that convert dialogue into action.

A crucial element of Qatar Charity's message was the call for a shift in international cooperation. They contended that Global South organizations and communities should not merely be recipients or implementers of aid, but should also influence priorities, financing, and decision-making. They stressed that effective localisation calls for investment in local institutions and leadership, alongside acknowledging existing solutions from the Global South.

Throughout the week, Qatar Charity forged partnerships with various organizations, including International Medical Corps (IMC), ANERA, BRAC, UNICEF, Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). These partnerships extended to the recent USD 10 million contribution from IsDB to the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees, a waqf-based financing mechanism supporting long-term solutions for displaced populations.

At UNGAS81, Qatar Charity took part in talks with OCHA regarding humanitarian diplomacy, access, principled action, localisation, resilience, and responsible transitions. They also engaged in UNHCR discussions on refugee protection, opportunity, self-reliance, and faith-based action. At the AlGhurair Foundation, Qatar Charity emphasized diversifying humanitarian funding by combining traditional aid with Islamic philanthropy, community giving, philanthropy, and private-sector partnerships.

Upon returning from New York, Yousuf bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari remarked on the importance of rethinking international cooperation, stating that the Global South possesses valuable experience, resources, institutions, and solutions that must play a more significant role in shaping the humanitarian and development system. He expressed optimism about the partnerships formed and the areas of cooperation advanced, emphasizing that the focus now is on translating these discussions into real-world action.