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Kenya: Defence College of Health Sciences (DCHS) Graduates Charged to Uphold Professionalism in Military Healthcare

Source: APO – Report:

Military healthcare is a critical pillar of operational readiness, demanding technical competence, resilience, compassion and an unwavering commitment to preserving life.

These responsibilities took centre stage as the Defence College of Health Sciences (DCHS) marked the completion of its 2026 training programme with a Candle Lighting Ceremony and the Nurses’ and Midwives’ Pledge at Lang’ata Garrison.

The ceremony brought together graduands, instructors and invited guests to celebrate professional growth and the transition of trainees into healthcare practice. It also highlighted the important role military health personnel play in protecting the health and well-being of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel and sustaining mission readiness in both peacetime and operational environments.

Presiding over the ceremony, the Guest of Honour, National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) Vice-Chancellor Lieutenant General David Tarus, challenged the graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their training with professionalism, discipline and dedication across KDF medical establishments.

Drawing attention to the realities of military operations, Lieutenant General Tarus emphasised that effective medical support is indispensable to the ability of troops to operate in demanding environments.

“For those of you who have operated in operational areas, you recall the harsh and difficult environment. Mission readiness depends heavily on the quality, preparedness and professionalism of our medical personnel. This places a profound responsibility on the Defence College of Health Sciences to prepare professionals who possess not only technical competencies, but also the resilience, discipline and commitment demanded by military service,” he said.

He underscored the responsibility entrusted to military healthcare professionals, noting that their competence and preparedness directly contribute to the effectiveness and resilience of personnel deployed in diverse operational environments.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK), Dr Lister Onsongo, urged the graduates to remain committed to continuous professional development and avoid complacency as they progress in their careers.

She encouraged them to embrace evidence-based practice, clinical research and innovation to remain responsive to emerging healthcare challenges and advances in medical practice.

A defining moment of the ceremony was the lighting of candles, symbolising knowledge, compassion and service. This was followed by the Nurses’ and Midwives’ Pledge, through which the graduands affirmed their commitment to professional ethics, integrity, dignity and the delivery of quality healthcare.

The ceremony marked not only the completion of training but also the beginning of greater professional responsibility. For the graduates, the transition places them at the intersection of two demanding callings—healthcare and military service—where competence, discipline and compassion are essential to safeguarding lives.

Guided by its vision to become a centre of excellence in medical training and research for national security and strategy, DCHS continues to develop healthcare professionals capable of supporting the evolving medical requirements of the KDF. The College’s training is anchored on the core values of integrity, creativity, discipline, stewardship, compassion, collaboration and dignity.

As the graduates embark on the next phase of their service, the flame lit during the ceremony stands as an enduring reminder of their professional calling: to preserve life, provide compassionate care and uphold the highest standards of healthcare in service to the KDF and the Nation.

– on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

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Kenya’s strategic shift to comprehensive disaster risk financing through integrated budget tagging

Source: APO – Report:

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This case study examines how Kenya strengthened risk-informed governance by integrating climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk reduction (DRR) into national planning and public financial management systems through a disaster and climate budget tagging and expenditure tracking system. Requested by the National Treasury and supported by UNDRR through the Intra-ACP DRR Programme, the initiative focused on improving expenditure tracking, strengthening institutional capacities, enhancing interagency coordination, and informing the development of Kenya’s Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Strategy 2025–2030 and Disaster Risk Financing (DRF) Strategy 2026–2030.

The case study reports that the budget tagging exercise improved tracking and reporting of DRR and climate-related expenditures across government institutions. Government officials were trained on integrated DRR–CCA approaches, policy coherence and risk-informed planning methodologies, while an interagency taskforce supported development of the DRF Strategy 2026–2030.

– on behalf of United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

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President Herminie Meets United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres to Discuss Key Global Priorities

Source: APO – Report:

Seychelles’ priorities on climate action, sustainable development and development financing were among the issues discussed yesterday during a bilateral meeting between President Dr Patrick Herminie and UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York.

During the meeting, Secretary-General Guterres underlined the urgency of accelerating the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy and strengthening support for climate adaptation, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He further emphasised the importance of climate justice, including equitable access to financing and reforms to the international financial architecture to better respond to the needs and vulnerabilities of developing countries.

The Secretary-General commended Seychelles for its principled and consistent leadership on climate issues and its longstanding advocacy on behalf of SIDS, reaffirming the United Nations’ solidarity with vulnerable states facing the disproportionate impacts of climate change.

President Herminie welcomed the progress being made under the UN80 Initiative and reaffirmed Seychelles’ support for a more effective and responsive United Nations. He stressed, however, that reform efforts must strengthen the Organisation’s capacity to deliver on its mandates and respond meaningfully to the needs of Member States, particularly SIDS.

The President also welcomed recent development in the operationalisation of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), describing it as an important tool for ensuring that vulnerability is more accurately reflected in development financing frameworks. He called for its broader adoption by Multilateral Development Banks, International Financial Institutions and development partners.

The discussion also addressed the growing pressures on vulnerable economies in an increasingly complex global environment. President Herminie expressed concern over the diversion of resources towards conflicts at a time when greater investment is required to tackle the climate crisis and advance sustainable development objectives.

Reaffirming Seychelles’ unwavering commitment to multilateralism, the President underscored the importance of international cooperation, adherence to international law and respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter in addressing shared global challenges.

President Herminie conveyed his appreciation to Secretary-General Guterres for his leadership and steadfast support for the SIDS agenda throughout his tenure, and expressed confidence that the momentum achieved on issues of critical importance to vulnerable states would be sustained in the years ahead.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Seychelles Takes Over SIDS DOCK Presidency with President Herminie Leading

Source: APO – Report:

Seychelles will take on the Presidency of the SIDS DOCK Assembly through December 2027, following the election of President Dr Patrick Herminie to lead the organisation’s Tenth Session, strengthening the country’s role in advancing sustainable energy, climate resilience and sustainable development among Small Island Developing States.

The Tenth Session of the SIDS DOCK Assembly was held on Thursday in a hybrid format, bringing together representatives of Small Island Developing States to discuss shared priorities and strengthen cooperation on energy and climate-related challenges.

President Herminie was elected by acclamation following his nomination to lead the Assembly for the 10th session. The Assembly also elected H.E. Lord Fatafehi Fakafānua, Prime Minister of Tonga, and H.E. Mr John Briceno Prime Minister of Belize as Vice Presidents representing the Pacific and Caribbean regions respectively.

In his remarks, President Herminie thanked H.E. Feleti Teo, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, for his leadership as President of the Ninth Session of the SIDS DOCK Assembly and acknowledged the work carried out during his tenure.

He also reaffirmed Seychelles’ commitment to working with SIDS DOCK member states and partners to advance shared priorities in sustainable energy, climate resilience and sustainable development.

President Herminie was accompanied during the discussions by the Minister for Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, Ms Marie-May Jeremie, who also participated in the exchanges with representatives present.

SIDS DOCK is an international organisation created by Small Island Developing States to help address some of the challenges common to island countries, particularly energy security, climate change and sustainable development. It provides a platform for SIDS to work together, share knowledge and technology, and connect with international partners and potential sources of financing for sustainable energy projects.

For Seychelles, its participation in SIDS DOCK provides an opportunity to strengthen cooperation with other island states and international partners, access technical expertise and support, and advance solutions suited to the country’s energy and climate priorities. The organisation’s growing focus on ocean-based energy is also particularly relevant to Seychelles as an island nation with a large ocean territory.

As President of the Tenth SIDS DOCK Assembly, President Herminie will lead the organisation through December 2027, providing Seychelles with an opportunity to contribute to discussions and initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable energy, climate resilience and sustainable development across Small Island Developing States.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Online attacks on Kenyan journalists: what makes audiences join in, push back or stay silent

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Kevin Mudavadi, Assistant Professor, Georgia State University

Online harassment targeting journalists has escalated into a global crisis. Across digital public spheres, it threatens press freedom and individual safety.

In Kenya, this hostility often unfolds on social media platforms like X and Facebook, where journalists covering politically sensitive events face coordinated attacks. For instance, following critical coverage of state policies or public protests, journalists are regularly branded as “political mercenaries” or “traitors” in comment threads, prompting audiences to swarm their personal accounts with threats.

Digital attacks like these actively erode public trust in news institutions. They create a hostile environment that pressures journalists towards self-censorship. Yet, these attacks also unfold before audiences whose reactions can strengthen or weaken their effects.

Insults, smear campaigns, sexual harassment and death threats may begin with a few accounts. They gain wider power when other users repeat them, defend them or remain silent. The public, therefore, does more than witness journalists being harassed. They help determine whether an attack is rejected as intimidation or accepted as a legitimate response to journalism.

We are a team of media researchers, and our recent study examined how Kenyan audiences understand and respond to online harassment against journalists.

Understanding this audience response is vital for restoring trust in news outlets and journalists, and protecting democratic environments.

What we found

The study interviewed 19 Kenyan adults from different demographic, economic, urban and rural backgrounds to understand how they interpreted attacks appearing on their social media feeds.

The interviews showed that audiences rarely judged online attacks in isolation. Their interpretations were shaped by political loyalties, trust in the media and assessments of the journalist involved. These judgments influenced whether they defended the reporter, supported the criticism or withdrew from the conversation.

At least three themes emerged from the responses drawn from the interviews. Harassment was understood as:

  • a threat to press freedom

  • a form of public accountability

  • a political strategy for silencing critical journalism.

For instance, one interviewee shared a proactive approach:

What I always do is to put my comment there and just correct someone who’s harassing a female journalist … I always counter what they say. I think this should be seen as a moral or civic obligation … to protect the welfare of journalists.

Another chose to discuss the matter with colleagues:

I vent more physically compared to online … when I see something which is not right being done to a journalist or anyone … I show my colleagues comments, discuss, and vent, and to hear their point of view.

Another explained a conditional engagement:

It depends on the nature of the harassment … if the journalist is being harassed because of something wrong, especially if they side with the government … if I come across such harassment, I will not feel bad because I will feel the journalist is not part of us.

These responses sometimes overlapped. Participants could condemn an attack in one situation and defend similar conduct in another.

Participants who trusted a journalist generally viewed threats and personal insults as attempts to obstruct legitimate reporting. They understood journalists as public watchdogs whose work could expose wrongdoing and information about powerful institutions. Attacking a reporter for performing this role, therefore, threatened both the journalist and the public’s access to information.

Other participants interpreted harsh online reactions as a form of accountability when they believed a journalist had acted unfairly, supported a political group or produced sensational coverage. Their concern began with the reporter’s conduct, especially during politically divisive moments. In such cases, aggressive responses were sometimes understood as citizens challenging media power.

Another interpretation focused on the organised political forces behind some attacks. Participants described coordinated campaigns involving political operatives and paid social media users, commonly called “keyboard warriors” in Kenya. These groups can flood comment sections. They repeat accusations and create the appearance of widespread anger against a journalist. Under these conditions, harassment becomes a political strategy. It damages the journalist’s credibility while discouraging further scrutiny of those in power.

These responses reveal a difficult problem for press freedom. Public protection can depend on whether audiences believe that a particular journalist deserves it. The same threat may be condemned as intimidation when directed at a trusted reporter, or accepted as accountability when directed at a distrusted one.

The reach of abuse

The structure of social media gives online attacks room to spread. Messages built around anger, accusation and personal conflict can attract rapid attention. Repeated comments can make a coordinated campaign appear to represent broad public opinion.

As the attack circulates, the original news report may disappear. The journalist’s character, motives or identity may become the main subject of discussion.

Women journalists carry a particularly heavy burden within this environment. Participants described attacks involving sexual comments, body shaming and threats of physical or sexual violence. Such abuse moves beyond disagreement with a report. It targets a woman’s dignity, safety and place in public life. Its effects can extend beyond one journalist. Other women watching the attack may understand political reporting as a source of personal danger.

The silence of witnesses

Study participants described two distinct responses when they encountered harassment.

Some engaged in counter-speech – correcting false claims, challenging abusive comments or reporting harmful accounts. They viewed these actions as part of protecting journalism and preserving open public discussion.

Others remained silent because they feared becoming targets.

Participants mentioned doxxing (sharing private or identifying information of someone online without their consent), personal insults and attacks from coordinated groups as possible consequences of defending a journalist. Some also believed that one person could achieve little against a large or organised campaign.

This silence shows how online harassment can control more than the journalist’s behaviour. It can also narrow public discussion by teaching witnesses that participation carries personal risks.

When concerned users withdraw, aggressive groups gain greater influence over which voices are heard and which claims appear widely accepted.

Press freedom requires public support

These findings show that journalists’ safety cannot rest entirely on blocking tools, security training or platform reporting systems. It also depends on whether audiences can distinguish criticism of journalism from efforts to intimidate journalists.

Criticism examines a reporter’s evidence, methods and professional decisions. Harassment targets the person. It creates fear and raises the cost of continuing to report.

News organisations can strengthen this distinction by explaining how stories are produced. They can correct errors openly and respond seriously to public concerns. Media literacy programmes can also help citizens recognise coordinated attacks, gendered abuse and threats presented as political criticism.

– Online attacks on Kenyan journalists: what makes audiences join in, push back or stay silent
– https://theconversation.com/online-attacks-on-kenyan-journalists-what-makes-audiences-join-in-push-back-or-stay-silent-291471

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Qatar Condemns Military Escalation Against Ethiopian Federal Forces

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | September 27, 2026

The State of Qatar condemns the military escalation against the Ethiopian federal forces, considering it a serious threat to the unity and sovereignty of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, as well as to security and stability in the Horn of Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses the need for an immediate cessation of the escalation and hostilities, the protection of civilians, and adherence to the Pretoria Peace Agreement. In this context, the State of Qatar reaffirms its full support for all efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in Ethiopia, paving the way for resolving all disputes through dialogue and peaceful means.

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Qatar Participates in 4th High-Level Meeting on Global Development Initiative

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 26, 2026

The State of Qatar on Saturday participated in the fourth high-level meeting on the Global Development Initiative (GDI), held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.

In her address, Her Excellency affirmed Qatar’s support for efforts to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This support comes amidst mounting challenges facing developing countries-ranging from financing and debt crises to food insecurity, climate change, the digital and technological divide, and energy insecurity.

Her Excellency emphasized that inclusive and sustainable development is not merely an economic goal but a foundation for peace, stability, and prosperity. She noted that, guided by this principle, Qatar joined the Global Development Initiative to support collective efforts to place development at the heart of multilateral international action, through a people-centered approach that fosters innovation and translates commitments into tangible actions and results. 

She highlighted the importance of strengthening international cooperation to address the widening development financing gap and mobilize additional resources for developing nations-particularly the least developed countries. She emphasized the need to fulfill commitments regarding development finance, Official Development Assistance (ODA), and climate action, as well as to reform the international financial system to make it more responsive to the needs of developing countries and supportive of their efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation noted that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technologies offer immense opportunities to accelerate progress toward sustainable development. However, she warned that these technologies could exacerbate inequalities if developing countries lack equitable access to technology, knowledge, and capacity-building. She called for enhanced international cooperation in technology transfer, innovation, scientific research, and digital capacity-building to ensure that the technological revolution serves as a driving force for development for all.

Her Excellency explained that the State of Qatar is working to achieve comprehensive national progress through the implementation of its National Vision 2030. She reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting sustainable development, fostering partnerships, and upholding international solidarity. She also highlighted Qatar’s continued efforts to leverage its diverse partnerships with United Nations agencies and international financial institutions to support initiatives aimed at eradicating poverty, promoting quality education for all, ensuring energy access, enhancing food security and healthcare, and building resilience against shocks and humanitarian disasters. 

She highlighted the State of Qatar’s leading role in implementing the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries (2022-2031) by supporting projects that build resilience, enhance food security, and advance other programme outcomes. She noted Doha’s preparations to host the High-Level Meeting on the Midterm Review of the Doha Programme of Action, slated for March 25-27, which aims to assess progress, renew the commitment to implementation and resource mobilization, share experiences, and support efforts toward sustainable graduation from the Least Developed Countries category.

Her Excellency affirmed the State of Qatar’s commitment to working with all member states to strengthen international cooperation and mobilize efforts and resources in the face of interconnected global challenges, thereby contributing to a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.

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Qatar Participates in Arab League-OIC Joint Ministerial Meeting

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 26, 2026

The State of Qatar participated Saturday in the joint ministerial meeting of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held on the margin of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed Qatar’s appreciation for the efforts made to strengthen and coordinate joint Arab and Islamic action to protect the city of Jerusalem and its Islamic and Christian holy sites. He emphasized the necessity of placing this issue at the forefront of everyone’s priorities, noting that Qatar has consistently and actively participated in these efforts.

His Excellency also voiced Qatar’s strongest condemnation of the Israeli escalation at Al-Aqsa Mosque, particularly the continued mass incursions by settlers led by extremist Israeli ministers under the protection of Israeli police forces, and the raising of the Israeli flag within its courtyards. He described these actions as a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law, as well as an unacceptable provocation to the sentiments of millions of Muslims around the world. 

HE Dr. Al Khulaifi reiterated the State of Qatar’s rejection of the systematic and illegal Israeli violations and measures aimed at altering the historical, legal, and demographic character of occupied East Jerusalem and undermining the sanctity and status of its Islamic and Christian holy sites. He emphasized that all unilateral measures intended to impose a new “fait accompli” regarding Jerusalem and its holy sites are null and void under international law and international legitimacy resolutions, and that Al-Aqsa Mosque compound is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims. He affirmed, in this regard, the State of Qatar’s support for the historic Hashemite custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stressed the importance of implementing the outcomes of the Amman meeting held last August, with the participation of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, particularly the activation of Qatar’s initiative to launch a sustainable institutional mechanism. This mechanism includes a media platform to monitor, document, and expose Israeli violations against holy sites and worshippers, highlight their grave repercussions, and present them to international organizations and global public opinion.

He also voiced Qatar’s appreciation of the the welcome extended to this initiative by the Arab Ministerial Committee concerned with illegal Israeli policies and measures in Jerusalem as well as its looking forward to continuing coordination with the General Secretariats of the League of Arab States and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to activate this mechanism, define its operational procedures and funding sources, and launch a coordinated diplomatic and media campaign to expose Israeli violations and mobilize international pressure to halt them.

He reiterated the State of Qatar’s unwavering support of the rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to self-determination; the establishment of an independent state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions; and implementing the two-state solution. He, further reaffirmed Qatar’s rejection of all measures and policies that threaten the implementation of the two-state solution. 

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Qatar Hosts Event on Accelerating Global Action on Autism

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 26, 2026

The State of Qatar hosted a high-level event of accelerating Global Action on Autism. The event was organized in partnership with the United Republic of Tanzania, the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Georgia, Qatar Foundation, UNICEF, the International Labour Organization (ILO), Autism Speaks, Education Above All, the Autism Impact Fund, and the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

In remarks at the event, HE Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani highlighted the significance of marking the first anniversary of the Global Autism Advocacy Alliance. Launched by Qatar Foundation in collaboration with Autism Speaks, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Social Development and Family, the Alliance was inspired by the vision of the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and her unwavering commitment to promoting the dignity, rights, and inclusion of individuals with autism and their families. 

HE Sheikha Alya explained that this vision continues to guide the State of Qatar’s efforts-both nationally and internationally-to advance the rights and inclusion of individuals with autism, enhance support for their families, and ensure that no one is left behind. She added that Qatar Foundation, under the leadership of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, plays a pivotal role in translating this vision into tangible reality through its pioneering programs and services.

These initiatives support individuals with autism and their families across the entire spectrum of needs-from early diagnosis and healthcare to education, employment, and social inclusion. She noted that Qatar Foundation’s autism strategy for 2025–2030 reflects this integrated approach by pooling expertise and fostering collaboration among government entities, research institutions, civil society, and individuals with autism and their families.

For her part, HE Advisor to the Prime Minister for Public Health Affairs, Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari expressed her appreciation for the partners, countries, and organizations that have contributed to supporting the work of the Global Autism Alliance. She noted that the challenge lies not only in identifying effective interventions but also in ensuring their equitable, sustainable, and widespread delivery to individuals with autism and their families, particularly in settings that lack resources and specialized capabilities. 

Her Excellency added that the initiatives proposed within the framework of the alliance aim to strengthen and expand workforce capabilities, leverage technology and innovation, facilitate knowledge sharing, and ensure the inclusion of individuals with autism and their families in priority setting and decision-making. 

She, further, reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s commitment to continued collaboration with partners to enhance cooperation and accelerate implementation, thereby contributing to tangible improvements in the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

For his part, HE Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), Fahad bin Hamad Al Sulaiti stated that inclusion is a fundamental aspect of the Fund’s work. He emphasized the necessity of ensuring that individuals with autism and their families have access to the support and opportunities that enable them to participate fully in society. 
He highlighted the importance of bringing together government institutions, researchers, service providers, and responsible investors within a unified framework to share expertise and identify effective, viable solutions-grounded in evidence, impact measurement, and financial sustainability.

His Excellency added that the next phase requires a focus on four key pillars: mobilizing capital and strengthening public-private partnerships; building capacity within national plans; leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to support autism services and education; and reinforcing policies to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of these programs. 
The event saw broad participation from government officials representing the countries involved in the High-Level Week, including HE Tanzania’s Minister of Health, Ummy Ally Mwalimu; HE Poland’s Minister of Health, Jolanta Sobieranska-Grenda; HE Georgia’s Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs, Mikheil Sarjveladze; and HE State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Shama Obaid Islam. 

The ministers emphasized the importance of moving from commitments to practical implementation, strengthening healthcare systems and services, providing specialized support for individuals with autism and their families, and ensuring equitable and inclusive access to services.

Participants reviewed their national efforts to enhance early detection and intervention, develop specialized workforces, expand rehabilitation and community support services, and foster inclusion in education, employment, and society, while ensuring the active participation of individuals with autism and their families in shaping policies and services. 

They underscored the importance of building national capacities, improving data collection and research, leveraging technology and artificial intelligence, and strengthening international cooperation and the exchange of expertise to support the development of sustainable solutions.

Participants emphasized the importance of continuing joint efforts through the Global Autism Alliance, contributing to the translation of international commitments into tangible actions at both national and community levels. They highlighted the need to ensure that individuals with autism receive the support and opportunities enabling them to learn, participate, and contribute fully to society. 

The event featured participation from several senior officials representing the United Nations and international organizations, most notably UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for Partnerships at UNICEF, Kitty van der Heijden; Special Representative and Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for the United Nations, Cynthia Samuel-Olonjuwon; Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Office at the UN Headquarters in New York, Dr. Werner Obermeyer; and President and CEO of Autism Speaks, Keith Wargo. 

Van der Heijden commended the State of Qatar’s role in launching the Alliance, noting that this year’s event offers an opportunity to assess the progress made regarding commitments pledged a year ago and to evaluate their impact on children and families. 

She explained that UNICEF focuses on building integrated, child-centered systems-leveraging frontline workers in health, education, and social protection-to ensure the early identification of developmental differences, support caregivers, and connect children and their families with necessary services, stressing the importance of early autism detection in opening doors to opportunities. 

For her part, Samuel-Olonjuwon highlighted the importance of ensuring the rights of individuals with autism in the workplace-promoting equal opportunities, non-discrimination, training, and career advancement-and outlined the role of International Labour Organization standards in supporting these goals. Dr. Obermeyer commended the State of Qatar’s role in spearheading the autism agenda at the United Nations, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that ensures inclusion and access to quality care and support services throughout the lifespan, while also involving individuals with autism, their families, and representative organizations in policy formulation and service design. 

Meanwhile, Wargo outlined the efforts of “Autism Speaks” to translate research and knowledge into practical, cross-border solutions-including the use of technology and artificial intelligence to share expertise and build the capacity of healthcare workers-stressing the necessity of involving individuals with autism and their families in designing these solutions and assessing their suitability for their needs.

In turn, Advisor for Research, Development, and Innovation to the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Professor Hilal Lashuel stated that the Alliance’s initiatives mark a significant milestone in its work. He noted that the initiatives aim to identify and address existing gaps through targeted measures, including measuring progress, sharing expertise and knowledge, fostering innovation, ensuring the participation of individuals with autism and their families in decision-making, and building the workforce required to provide support across the lifespan. He explained that these initiatives, taken together, form a fundamental pillar of the infrastructure needed to advance work in the field of autism.

The event featured a presentation showcasing efforts made over the past year to build a global network aimed at improving the lives of more than 61.8 million people with autism worldwide. This network seeks to achieve its goals by actively involving individuals with autism, their families, and caregivers in setting priorities and formulating solutions. 
The presentation highlighted the importance of making knowledge, evidence, and solutions accessible and adaptable to diverse cultures and contexts, as well as scaling up effective solutions and integrating them into national systems. 
It also outlined various initiatives by the Global Autism Alliance designed to foster research, evidence-based practices, accountability, innovation, and knowledge sharing, while supporting the workforce, policies, and national commitments required for large-scale service delivery.

Notably, the organization of this event reflects Qatar’s role in supporting international efforts to promote inclusion and improve the lives of people with autism and their families. It also underscores the country’s commitment to mobilizing international partnerships to move beyond mere awareness-raising and pledges toward the implementation of practical, sustainable solutions. 

The event served as a platform to review the progress achieved since the launch of the Global Autism Alliance a year ago.

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Qatar and Norway Discuss Cooperation on Development and Humanitarian Action

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 25, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr Maryam bint Ali Al Misnad met with HE Minister of International Development of the Kingdom of Norway Asmund Aukrust.

The meeting took place on Friday on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The two sides discussed bilateral cooperation and ways to strengthen their partnership in sustainable development and humanitarian action. They also took stock of a number of issues of mutual interest.