Qatari constitution focuses on promoting human rights

The principles of the constitution of Qatar are built on promoting human rights indicated at the Arab and international human rights conventions, and the vote tomorrow at the general referendum on the recent constitutional amendments is a gift by the wise leadership of the country to the Qatari people, a number of Qatari intellectuals have pointed out.Dr Mohamed Saif al-Kuwari, deputy chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, pointed out that most of the constitutional amendments, in particular at the first two chapters, are related to human rights and focus on liberty, dignity, justice, and equality among others. Accordingly, Qatar constitution is mainly based on the principles of human rights that is why the leadership wanted to involve all the people in the process of approving such changes. He said the Qatari constitution guarantees the protection of the rights of all its people and women in particular as Qatari women enjoy their full rights according to the international standards in this regard.Mubarak Abdulla al-Sulaiti, president of the Qatari Lawyers Association, said the popular vote on the constitutional amendments is considered a national duty and Qatar is keen to broaden the popular participation in the process of decision-making to develop the legislative body of the country. He pointed out that the popular vote is a valid tool that allows the Qatari people to freely express their opinion. He also expected that the new amendments will usher a new phase of reforms that will further boost legislations in the country for more progress in the future.Eng Khalid al-Nassr, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Qatar Society of Engineers, pointed out that the constitutional amendments boost national unity and achieve the supreme interest of the nation to guarantee a better future for the next generations. He stressed that people's participation at the vote on these amendments is key to express their voice, as these are meant to enhance justice and equality among the citizens.Eng Jassim al-Malik, former vice-chairman of the Central Municipal Council, considered the day of voting on the constitutional amendments as historical and vital for the upcoming phase of the country. He said that appointing qualified and experienced members for the Shura Council will ultimately reflect positively on the country and its people. Besides, the new amendments will open the door for qualified young people to assume responsibility and get an opportunity to serve their country at such key positions.