The 23rd Doha Forum opened on Saturday in the Qatari capital with world leaders, senior diplomats and business figures from more than 150 countries urging greater international responsibility in addressing global crises, including the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
Held under the theme “Justice in Action: From Commitment to Progress,” speakers called for governments and institutions to move beyond declarations and adopt practical measures to tackle inequality, conflict and climate and economic instability.
The opening panel featured Qatar’s prime minister, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, and the foreign ministers of Spain and Turkey. Discussions focused on stalled peace efforts in Ukraine and what participants described as collective responsibilities toward civilians in Gaza.
Bill Gates, delivering a keynote address, highlighted fragile gains in global health and said advances in science and artificial intelligence could accelerate breakthroughs in vaccines and disease treatments.
“AI can significantly speed up progress,” Gates said, noting its potential in drug discovery and delivery.
The forum also awarded its 2025 prize to Alex Thier and Saad Mohseni for what organisers described as “transformative work” in expanding access to education in crisis settings. The award was presented by Qatar’s emir.
In a panel on mediation, participants underscored Qatar’s growing diplomatic role in regional conflicts. The EU’s top diplomat praised Doha’s involvement in negotiations on Gaza, Afghanistan and Sudan, calling its efforts “commendable.”
Qatar’s prime minister said the country’s mediation strategy stems from its geopolitical position and the need to ensure regional stability.
“As a small country, we cannot become a military power,” he said. “But through diplomacy, investment and partnership, we create Qatar’s footprint.”
Turkey’s foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, told the forum that countries “cannot ignore crises around them,” adding that states have a human responsibility to act.
Qatar’s prime minister reiterated that a lasting ceasefire in Gaza requires the full withdrawal of Israeli forces and the restoration of stability. Spain’s foreign minister said the international community “cannot remain silent” over the killing of civilians.
He also described the situation in Ukraine as a “challenging moment,” urging respect for the UN Charter and rejection of war as an instrument of policy.
