Qatar Participates in Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination and Xenophobia
Geneva | July 3, 2026
The State of Qatar participated in the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, held as part of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council, currently taking place in Geneva.
Qatar was represented at the session by Sheikh Sultan bin Khalid Al Thani, Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva.
In his statement before the session, Sheikh Sultan underscored the importance of sport as an effective tool for promoting equality and diversity, and for addressing stereotypes and prejudices that fuel racism and discrimination. He expressed the State of Qatar's belief that sport is a universal language that brings together peoples and cultures and contributes to strengthening the values of respect, tolerance and solidarity. He noted that, based on this approach, the State of Qatar has adopted practical and institutional measures to combat racism and promote social inclusion through sport.
He highlighted that Qatar's hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 served as a prominent model for leveraging sport to foster intercultural understanding and confront stereotypes and discrimination. He added that Qatar supported the efforts of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in implementing the "No Discrimination" campaign and promoting a sporting environment based on respect and equality. He also noted that Qatar National Sport Day, held annually in February, is a unique initiative to encourage participation in sport and remove cultural and racial barriers among all residents of the country.