Geneva: The Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar in Geneva, in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Qatar Debate Center, and the Geneva Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, organized an event titled "Unlearning Discrimination: Education for Empowering Women and Girls." This event took place on the sidelines of the 59th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
According to Qatar News Agency, in her opening remarks, HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN Office in Geneva, Dr. Hend Abdulrahman Al Muftah, underscored education as a fundamental human right. She emphasized that it provides individuals with essential skills and serves as a platform for claiming and enjoying other rights. Dr. Al Muftah highlighted education's transformative role, particularly for women and girls, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to participate actively in society, improve living conditions, and contribute to economic development.
Her Excellency pointed out the direct link between women's empowerment and education, noting that it opens employment opportunities, enhances decision-making capabilities, and supports participation in public life. She expressed concern over the global educational gap between girls and boys, citing that only 66 percent of countries have achieved gender parity in primary education, 45 percent in lower secondary, and a mere 25 percent in upper secondary education.
HE Permanent Representative Al Muftah called for immediate action to enhance international efforts in securing human rights for women and girls, particularly the right to quality education. She affirmed Qatar's leadership in supporting education both nationally and internationally, highlighting initiatives like the UN General Assembly Resolution 74/275 for the International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
Her Excellency noted Qatar's commitment to education extends to vulnerable populations, including children in emergencies and conflict zones. She praised the Education Above All Foundation for its Educate A Child program, which has enrolled over 19 million out-of-school children across 50 countries with 82 partners.
The event, attended by over 70 officials from diplomatic missions and organizations focused on education and development, reinforced that education is more than a basic right. It is a catalyst for change, providing opportunities, safeguarding dignity, and enabling full societal participation for girls and women.