November 5: A milestone in Qatar’s quest for well-balanced modernization

Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka, Editor-in-Chief, Gulf Times

On November 5, Qatar will reach a key milestone in its political evolution with a national referendum on proposed amendments to the Permanent Constitution. This referendum, supported by His Highness Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, is more than a procedural vote; it is a testament to Qatar’s commitment to harmonizing justice, equality and cultural heritage while engaging in democratic participation.

The upcoming vote marks the fourth phase in Qatar’s political journey, following the Founding Phase, Independence and the 2003 Constitution, each of which cemented Qatar’s unique model of governance based on Islamic values, Shura (consultation) and expert guidance.

In a world where modernization often involves a loss of identity and tradition, Qatar is trying to forge a different path. The nation positions itself as a model of balance – a society that embodies the future, rooted in its past. Through this referendum, His Highness the Emir has charted a path that reinforces the principles of justice, equality and social cohesion, demonstrating a vision of political and social unity that is both progressive and deeply respectful of Qatar’s cultural foundations. By allowing the people to have a voice in shaping constitutional change, His Highness the Emir not only underscores the strength of Qatar’s political framework, but also signals a national dedication to sustainable governance that resonates with citizens’ values.

The upcoming referendum represents a bold and necessary step in Qatar’s gradual political evolution. This gradual approach ensures that the country’s growth is not sudden or externally imposed, but rather developed organically, respecting Qatar’s unique context.

Qatar’s political journey has already witnessed pivotal transformations. The adoption of the Constitution in 2003 through a popular referendum laid the foundations for justice, equality and unity, emphasizing consultation as a guiding principle for decision-making. Since then, these values ​​have been upheld through Shura and counsel with the nation’s leaders, a practice that reflects not only Qatar’s religious identity but also a deep respect for tradition in modern governance.

As Qatar stands on the brink of a new constitutional phase, it is worth considering the historical parallels of other countries that have held referendums at crucial moments in their political history. For example, France’s Fourth Republic referendum in 1946 followed the turmoil of World War II, serving as a vital step in redefining French identity and rebuilding democratic foundations. Similarly, the 1947 referendum in India shaped the future of South Asia by determining the territorial division between India and Pakistan, a decision crucial to the region’s political stability. In Vietnam, a referendum in the 1960s set the course for a nation newly independent from colonial rule, allowing its citizens to navigate complex political landscapes in the post-colonial era.

These examples underscore the importance of referendums as vehicles for self-determination, national unity, and resistance. The upcoming referendum in Qatar similarly allows the people of Qatar to exercise their will in forming a system of government that reflects their aspirations and values. Such participation is not merely symbolic; it strengthens the government’s accountability to the people, instilling in the population a sense of ownership and pride in the trajectory of their nation.

His Highness the Emir’s decision to initiate this referendum reflects his commitment to social cohesion, justice and a balanced approach to modernization. This vision is rooted in the principles of constructive dialogue, positive change and peaceful resolution of differences, creating an atmosphere in which national unity thrives. It is an advanced philosophy aimed at protecting the nation’s stability and identity in a rapidly changing world. In a region marked by complex political dynamics, Qatar’s approach is a strong message that modernization must not come at the expense of identity and heritage.

Calling on citizens to participate, the Emir emphasizes the importance of an engaged population and the value of their knowledge in the future direction of Qatar. By Decree no. 87 of 2024, all Qatari citizens aged 18 and over are invited to participate in this general referendum. The decree also established a comprehensive organizational structure with a general commission for the referendum, chaired by the Minister of the Interior, joined by influential people, including the Ministers of Justice and the Interior, as well as representatives of the Shura Council and the judiciary. This framework ensures that the referendum is conducted with the highest standards of transparency and accountability.

The referendum represents a shared commitment between Qatar’s leadership and its people to create a model of governance that honors cultural roots while responding to contemporary needs. This balance is a defining feature of Qatar’s political philosophy, one that prioritizes national unity and the enduring stability of Qatar’s social fabric. The amendment process, a collaborative effort shaped by public input, enables Qatari citizens to influence the nation’s future while preserving the values ​​that are intrinsic to their identity.

In an age where many societies face the challenge of balancing tradition and progress, Qatar is making a bold statement that it is possible to go both ways at once. This referendum symbolizes the country’s ambition to remain at the forefront of progress, promoting justice and equality in a way that resonates deeply with its people.

Qatar’s November 5 referendum on constitutional amendments is a historic opportunity for its citizens to actively shape their nation’s future while upholding cultural values. By embracing this participatory process, His Highness the Emir is guiding Qatar towards a future that respects the past, cultivates justice and strengthens social cohesion. Qatar’s approach serves as a powerful example of how countries can achieve sustainable modernization without sacrificing their unique identity.