Global Security Forum 2026 opens in Doha with 100+ countries represented

The 8th Global Security Forum has opened in Doha, bringing together senior officials, security experts and policymakers from more than 100 countries to discuss the future of international alliances and collective security.

The three-day forum runs from October 19 to 21, 2026 under the theme “The Future of Alliances.” It is being held under the auspices of HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar.

Why is the forum focusing on alliances?

This year’s theme comes amid shifting geopolitical relationships, regional conflicts and questions over the ability of long-established alliances and international institutions to respond to new security challenges.

The official forum describes the 2026 edition as an opportunity to examine how alliances are being tested, reconfigured and reconsidered as pressure grows on trust, legitimacy and international cooperation.

Discussions will look at how governments and institutions can adapt partnerships while maintaining collective security and cooperation.

Who is attending?

According to organisers, the forum is bringing together participants including:

• Ministers and senior government officials
• Security and intelligence officials
• Military representatives
• National security advisers
• Representatives of multilateral organisations
• Academics and security experts
• International journalists

The forum is invitation-only and has previously attracted thousands of in-person and virtual participants.

Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister among opening-day speakers

The opening programme includes a special conversation with HE Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs.

Other sessions will bring together national security advisers from countries including Poland, Switzerland, Austria and Greece.

What topics are being discussed?

The three-day programme will explore a broad range of contemporary security issues.

Topics highlighted for the 2026 edition include:

• The future of strategic alliances
• Collective defence and international cooperation
• Irregular migration
• The future of defence industries
• NATO perspectives on global security
• Five Eyes intelligence cooperation
• Emerging powers and non-state actors
• The future of multilateral institutions
• Diplomacy, dialogue and mediation

The programme includes plenary sessions, strategic dialogues, moderated discussions and closed-door roundtables.

Qatar’s role as host

The forum is hosted jointly by The Soufan Center and the Qatar International Academy for Security Studies (QIASS).

Organisers say Doha provides a platform for policymakers and security specialists to discuss practical responses to shared international challenges, with diplomacy and dialogue forming an important part of the forum’s approach.

Eighth edition of the forum

The first Global Security Forum was held in 2018, focusing on returning foreign fighters.

Subsequent editions have examined topics including disinformation, geopolitical competition, global cooperation and the role of non-state actors in international security.

The 2025 edition focused on The Impact of Non-State Actors on Global Security and brought together more than 1,000 participants. 

About Qatar Living:

Since 2005, Qatar Living has been the trusted destination for everything Qatar. As the country's largest online community and marketplace, Qatar Living connects people with opportunities through jobs, property, vehicles, services, classifieds, events, local insights, and breaking news. Trusted by residents, newcomers, visitors, and businesses alike, Qatar Living brings Qatar together in one place.

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial