New York:The State of Qatar has reaffirmed its support for the International Law Commission (ILC) and its mandate. Qatar expressed its readiness to continue engaging constructively with the Commission and the Sixth Committee to bolster an international legal order grounded in the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Jazi Rashid Al Nuaimi, a member of the Qatari delegation, delivered a statement at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly's Sixth Committee. The statement was part of the discussion on agenda item 78, titled "Report of the ILC on the work of its seventy-sixth and seventy-seventh sessions," held at the United Nations headquarters.
Al Nuaimi highlighted Qatar's emphasis on the ILC's mandate to codify and progressively develop international law, stressing the importance of continued cooperation with the Sixth Committee. She underscored that the Commission's work should reflect the diversity of legal traditions and perspectives and the specific characteristics of national legal systems. She emphasized the need for consensus on the Commission's texts to secure broad acceptance of its outcomes.
Furthermore, Al Nuaimi reiterated Qatar's position on the criteria for any international instrument, which should not compromise national judiciaries' independence, must respect state sovereignty, and should draw on existing international agreements. Additionally, such instruments must include procedural safeguards to prevent politicization or misuse, allowing sufficient time for states to study and achieve consensus.
Al Nuaimi noted Qatar's contributions to state practice in promoting respect for international law at national and international levels. Nationally, Qatar has established a National Committee for International Humanitarian Law to align national legislation with international obligations. Regionally, Qatar became the first state to chair the Arab Permanent Committee for International Humanitarian Law, coordinating efforts within the League of Arab States.
Internationally, Qatar has joined a global initiative to renew commitment to international humanitarian law by 2025, co-chairing the initiative's third track. This reflects Qatar's dedication to strengthening international law's role in supporting peace and security. Al Nuaimi stated that Qatar views these efforts as contributing to the progressive development of international law, offering new perspectives for the Commission's consideration.