Geneva: The Permanent Delegation of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva took part on Monday in organizing a side event titled "The Road to 2027: International Year of Legal Literacy," in cooperation with the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations in Geneva and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), on the sidelines of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council.
According to Qatar News Agency, in remarks delivered during the event, HE Qatar's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Dr. Hind Abdulrahman Al Muftah, expressed pride in Qatar being a co-sponsor of the United Nations General Assembly resolution proclaiming 2027 as the International Year of Legal Literacy. This resolution, initiated by Tajikistan, was adopted by consensus on December 12, 2025. Dr. Al Muftah emphasized that the resolution underscores the international community's belief in the significance of legal literacy as a fundamental element for reinforcing the rule of law, enhancing access to justice, and enabling individuals to comprehend their rights and responsibilities while effectively participating in their societies.
She further elaborated that, from Qatar's perspective, legal literacy involves more than just familiarity with legal texts. It encompasses building trust in judicial institutions and reinforcing principles of justice, transparency, and accountability, which in turn contribute to good governance and the protection of rights. Dr. Al Muftah highlighted that these principles are a key component of the Ministry of Justice Strategy (2025-2030), which prioritizes legal awareness in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy by developing efficient, people-centered legal services and expanding legal awareness across society.
Additionally, Dr. Al Muftah noted Qatar's efforts to align with transformations in legal systems. She mentioned the organization of the Doha Law Forum earlier this year in cooperation with the Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre and the International Law Association (GCC Branch). The forum, held under the theme "Emerging Trends and Future Visions," focused on the impact of digital transformation and artificial intelligence on justice systems, stressing the necessity for modern legislative frameworks that protect rights and data while upholding the rule of law amid technological change.
Her Excellency reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to strengthening cooperation with member states, international organizations, academic institutions, and civil society organizations to exchange expertise and promote legal culture as an essential component of sustainable development, inclusive governance, and the building of more just and peaceful societies.
Other speakers at the event included HE Permanent Representative of Tajikistan to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Sharaf Sheralizoda; HE Secretary of the Security Council of Tajikistan, Yusuf Rahmon; HE Assistant to the President of Tajikistan for Legal Affairs, Zarif Alizoda; and HE Permanent Observer of the European Public Law Organization to the UN Office at Geneva, George Papadatos.