Qatar elected as first country to chair Arab Standing Committee on International Humanitarian Law

Qatar has been elected to chair the Arab Standing Committee on International Humanitarian Law, becoming the first country to assume the presidency of the body since its establishment in 2025.

HE Saeed bin Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice and Chairman of Qatar’s National Committee for International Humanitarian Law, was elected chairman during the 66th ordinary session of the Council of the League of Arab States at ministerial level, being held at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo.

According to the Ministry of Justice, the chairman of the committee is elected by ballot from among candidates representing the national committees on international humanitarian law in Arab League member states.

Committee established following Qatar proposal

The Arab Standing Committee on International Humanitarian Law was established following a proposal submitted by Qatar and approved by the Arab League Council during its 63rd ordinary session.

The body was created as a permanent Arab framework to strengthen coordination between national committees across the region.

Its work includes:

• Promoting cooperation between Arab states
• Exchanging expertise and best practices
• Supporting awareness of international humanitarian law
• Encouraging respect for humanitarian principles during conflicts and crises

Qatar’s role in humanitarian law recognised

HE Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ibrahim bin Ali Al Muhannadi said Qatar’s election reflects regional recognition of the country’s work in supporting justice, the rule of law and humanitarian action.

He said the appointment also reflects growing confidence in Qatar’s legal and judicial institutions and its wider role in regional and international initiatives related to law and humanitarian affairs.

The minister described the creation of the committee and Qatar’s assumption of its presidency as an important step in strengthening joint Arab action in the field of international humanitarian law.

Focus on protecting people during conflict

The committee is intended to support Arab cooperation in applying and promoting international humanitarian law, particularly during conflicts and emergencies.

Qatar’s work in this area is also supported at the national level by the National Committee on International Humanitarian Law, which focuses on promoting awareness and respect for the principles and rules governing humanitarian protection.

The chairmanship positions Qatar to lead the committee during its early development and help shape regional cooperation on humanitarian law across Arab states.

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