The first edition of Doha Forum: Youth Edition was launched Saturday at the Education City Student Centre in the presence of HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al- Thani, vice chairperson and CEO, Qatar Foundation, and HE Lolwah al-Khater, spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Jointly hosted by Doha Forum and QatarDebate, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), the Youth Edition aims to enhance the debating skills of young people, and engage them in discussions on issues that are trending around the world. The 18th Doha Forum will be held on December 15-16. 

The Forum consisted of two panel discussions in Arabic and English, led by a group of QatarDebate alumni who have trained for and participated in international championships held every year.

The Arabic panel discussion addressed the topic ‘Mass immigration is the solution, not the problem’, including its causes, and its effect on immigrants, the countries that receive immigrants, their country of origin, and society. Arguments for and against the topic were highlighted, after which a conclusion was reached. 

The English panel discussion addressed the topic ‘The role of the media in a post-truth era.’ It explored the theme of fake news, specifically the role of social media in spreading it, its definition, and the speed with which it spreads. The panel also noted how this leads to distrust in social media and politics, and polarises different groups within a nation, and held a general discussion on ways to combat fake news. 

According to The Gulf Times, HE Sheikha Hind said, “The Doha Forum: Youth Edition has focused on topics that are at the centre of global discussions, debates, and agendas – the patterns, causes, and impact of mass immigration; and the effects of fake news on how we consume, and perceive, media – and challenged young people to approach them from different standpoints. These issues, and others like them, will impact on their lives and their societies. Through their participation in this event, they will be better equipped to represent the voice of youth in global conversations on topics.”

HE al-Khater addressed the gathering and highlighted the rich Arabic culture and traditions. She said, “Debate and discussion have been a central art of Arabic way of living. Books and reading have been deeply rooted in the Arab culture. This spirit is manifested in our new venture as we celebrate the launch of Doha Forum’s new edition, the first ever youth edition, in partnership with QatarDebate and Qatar Foundation."

Dr Hayat Abdulla Maarafi, executive director of QatarDebate, said: “The voices of youth are significant in this changing world – they carry hopes, dreams, and plans for building and developing the community." “Doha Forum gives these voices the importance they deserve, and provides them with an opportunity to create ideas and make decisions", she added.