Doha Debates

The Doha Debates are one of the most exciting and educational events that take place here in Qatar. First, there is a controversial statement that is debated between two sides. There are guest speakers and a question period. Eventually the audience votes on whether or not to pass the motion made. Tim Sebastian is the host, and we met with Tanya, one of the producers and Sheelagh an educational director. The Doha Debates have been going on for about 5 years. They are a part of the Qatar foundation. However, this does not interfere in the independence of the program. It is run by the BBC, and the aim of the show is to provide the world with knowledge and present various viewpoints by defying stereotypes. In our meeting they said they like to “challenge the audience by giving different sides that are not cliche” The Doha Debates are an example of free speech available to students in Qatar. There have been many famous guests, from Bill Clinton to Shimon Perez.

 

Some examples of issues covered in the Doha debates are:

Muslim women choosing who they can marry

Arab/Israeli Conflict Profit over People in the Gulf

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