QatarDebate's International Debate, Dialogue Conference draws 1,200 participants
Doha
QatarDebate, founded by Qatar Foundation, concluded the second edition of the International Debate and Dialogue Conference on May 20.
The two-day conference, attended by approximately 1,200 participants, brought together elite thinkers and academics from various disciplines from more than 36 countries. It also welcomed participants from prestigious universities around the world that adopt debate as part of their curricula and extracurricular activities, as well as representatives from leading civil society organizations engaged in community building, particularly among younger generations.
Reflecting on the success of the conference, Abdulrahman Al-Subaie, director of programs at QatarDebate, delivered a speech during the closing ceremony in which he emphasized that the conference 'represents an important opportunity for researchers in the fields of dialogue, debate, and human communication to present research papers that reflect efforts across all sectors related to debate as a venerable art form and dialogue as a sublime form of communication.'
Further underscoring the conference's significance, Al-Subaie noted that it aligns with the pioneering role of Qatar as one of the largest incubators of global dialogue and negotiation for peace, security, and justice. He added, 'By the grace of God, Qatar's efforts have culminated in global achievements that have contributed to establishing peace and providing relief to those threatened in environments of danger and conflict.'
He continued: 'We live in an era where it is not enough to simply be right, but you must stand up for what is right. It is not enough to seek the truth, but also to desire it. It is not enough to be good, but you must also be a reformer.'
As a highlight of the conference, a public dialogue session brought together Anas Bukhash, host of ABTalks, and Mohamed Islam, host of Mo Show, in a conversation moderated by Mohammad Saadon Al-Kuwari. The session focused on the topic: 'Media Trailblazers: Multiple Approaches... Collective Goal.'
In a dynamic exchange, the speakers discussed the diversity of their approaches and content, and their shared goals of breaking stereotypes, promoting transparency, and building trust in societies that still cling to traditional forms of expression. The audience also participated in an open dialogue session, during which questions were asked and opinions exchanged.
Moreover, the final day also featured the recording of a special podcast in collaboration with media partner Doha Plus, as part of efforts to document the conference outcomes and expand the scope of meaningful discussions.
The broader program of the second day included in-depth discussions through parallel sessions addressing intellectual and societal issues from multiple perspectives.
Evening sessions continued with discussions on contemporary topics. One session addressed the use of artificial intelligence in argumentation, examining its limitations and potential contributions to the art of debate.
Through these diverse sessions, the conference ultimately aimed to promote intellectual dialogue and the exchange of experiences among participants from around the world.
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