Doha: Al-Raya newspaper has highlighted the State of Qatar's significant focus on empowering and integrating people with disabilities and the elderly into society. This is achieved through various services, comprehensive care, and promoting active participation in community activities.
According to Qatar News Agency, in alignment with the Third Financial Sector Strategy and the ESG and Sustainability Strategy for the Financial Sector on Enhancing Financial Inclusion, Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has issued guidelines concerning financial services tailored for customers with disabilities and the elderly. This underscores Qatar's dedication to promoting and protecting the rights of these individuals through a rights-based approach, which is a priority in the state's reform policies. The strategic choice of promoting human rights is emphasized in the Qatar National Vision 2030, as noted by Al-Raya.
The editorial further elaborates on the establishment of rehabilitation and vocational training centers for the elderly in Qatar, as well as organizing workshops for those nearing retirement. These initiatives aim to prepare them for their next life stage and offer support to those capable of working. Additionally, individuals with disabilities are included in a career planning program post-studies, designed to facilitate their workforce integration and ensure a suitable work environment.
In other regional news, The Peninsula newspaper condemned the ongoing violence and loss of life in the Gaza Strip, where 23 Palestinians were recently killed in a new wave of attacks by Israeli forces. This situation persists amid efforts by mediators in Doha to secure a ceasefire. The newspaper highlighted Qatar's persistent mediation efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians. Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that negotiations for a ceasefire are still ongoing.
Concerns have also been raised over Israel's reported plans to establish a "humanitarian city" in southern Gaza. Adnan Abu Hasna, a media advisor to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Gaza, warned that the plan essentially outlines mass internment camps, supported by previous infrastructure for aid distribution in southern Gaza. The Peninsula reported that since the onset of the Israeli military campaign in October 2023, the death toll in Gaza has reached 58,479, with over 139,355 wounded. Many remain trapped under rubble or in inaccessible areas due to continuous bombardments.