Politics
From The Report: Qatar 2012
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Political stability is ushering in a promising era of economic and human development, enabling the government to develop initiatives and diplomatic activities to shape a more knowledgeable and prosperous Qatar. In foreign policy, the Arab Spring has presented the state with the opportunity to implement its overseas goals, with the Emir emphasising long-term stability brought about by continuous reforms. While domestic challenges remain – including the need to boost private sector employment among nationals – the government is taking steps to provide incentives for workers to pursue these jobs.

This chapter includes a viewpoint with Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar. It also features interviews with Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem bin Jabr Al Thani, PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

A steady hand: Political stability is ushering in a promising era of economic and human development
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With one of the world’s most commanding positions in the global energy industry and a growing role in regional diplomacy, Qatar has seen massive returns on the political and economic investments it has made in the past two decades, and the country has come to the fore as a respected voice in international forums. Qatar has existed as an independent, sovereign state for just over 40 years. Unlike other Gulf neighbours, the country has no significant inland oases – virtually every permanent…

Viewpoint

Working together: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, on ensuring energy security in a global economy
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The global economy is undergoing major changes and rapid developments that have led to economic and financial crises. These have started to affect the cohesion of regional trade and political relations among states, and the capacity of many developing nations– especially poor countries – to achieve the general objectives of development. There is no doubt that the energy system is at the core of this situation, because all of its components and parties influence these changes. The spread of globalisation…

Viewpoint

Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, on promoting and diversifying the national economy
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Within the context of the steady process undertaken by the State of Qatar towards the sustainable and comprehensive development of all its sectors, a new achievement has been reached in promoting and diversifying the national economy. This is a step often considered one of the main pillars in the successful development of a diversified economy, particularly in terms of human capital, and will allow the Qatari workforce and the country’s businesses to properly integrate into the global economy. This…

Analysis

Legislation for the workplace: Rules and regulations are evolving to meet the needs of a dynamic labour market
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In recent years, Qatar has seen economic prosperity unprecedented in its national history, transforming itself into the richest country in the world by many standards. In 2011 GDP per capita grew by 14% in real terms, according to data released by the Qatar Statistics Authority (QSA) in March 2012. As economic growth continues, the government is pursing the development goals it laid out in documents like Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Qatar National Development Strategy. These plans include…

Interview

OBG talks to Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore
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Interview: Teo Chee Hean How would you characterise Qatar-Singapore ties? TEO CHEE HEAN: As small countries, Qatar and Singapore share a common interest in establishing partnerships that extend beyond our respective regions. Singapore has limited natural resources, so its model of development focuses on good governance and sound economic planning. Qatar, on the other hand, is blessed with energy resources. We share many similarities with what Qatar is striving to achieve, especially in terms of…