Doha: Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) and Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), creating a legal framework for long-term cooperation on community support and protection; facilitation of mediation efforts in conflict zones, and integration of the Islamic and international humanitarian principles into the legal, regulatory, and practical civilian protection systems. The MoU was signed by Secretary-General of QRCS, Faisal Mohamed Al Emadi, and Executive Director of CIVIC, Hichem Khadhraoui.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Emadi emphasized the importance of the MoU in enabling the two parties to share resources, expertise, and relations in common areas and specializations, and to explore new areas, thus enriching their respective portfolios and launching future joint programs towards the desired goals of collaboration.
Khadhraoui stated, “We share a vision of advancing civilian protection by drawing on our respective strengths – CIVIC’s expertise in harm mitigation and protection strategies, and QRCS’s longstanding presence and humanitarian reach.” He noted that this MoU reflects a common interest in contributing to humanitarian diplomacy by fostering dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and elevating the protection of civilians on the global agenda.
Under the MoU, the two parties will collaborate closely on various outcomes, including implementing joint pilot projects and activities on community self-protection, harm reduction, and risk management in highly complex environments. CIVIC is an international humanitarian organization specializing in the protection of civilians affected by armed conflict. Established in 2003, it is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in Geneva, The Hague, and New York. It operates in more than 10 conflict-affected countries, including Syria, Yemen, Nigeria, Somalia, Ukraine, and the Sahel region.