Globally, there has been significant efforts by Governments to promote peoples’ participation and engage them in their decision and policy making processes. These efforts aim not only to inform people but also to empower their participation and involvement.

Broadly, engagement with their people allows governments to tap into wider perspectives, sources of information, and potential solutions to improve decisions and services. It also provides the basis for productive relationships, improved dialogue and deliberation, and ultimately, better governance.

The Government of the State of Qatar, like many others internationally, has recognized the value of engaging the people in governance processes. Qatar’s National Development Strategy 2011-2016 acknowledges that people are a country’s most valuable asset and their participation in political, social and economic spheres will contribute to sustaining a prosperous society. The strategy also notes that social development requires broad participation of all people and the government, working together to fulfil the basic rights of individuals and the needs of the state.