Since Qatar’s Shura Council was established in 1972, following the passing of the Amended Provisional Basic Law of Rule in the State of Qatar on 19 April 1972, the Council has played a significant role in complementing the government’s development strategy.
The Shura Council’s long journey has seen the approval of many legislations and laws that contributed to advancing the nation in all sectors. The current reality affirms the movement towards broader horizons so that the state of institutions and law continues to develop and prosper. The Shura Council represents one of the two wings of authority. Laws are only issued after drafts are reviewed and studied by the Council.
It is worth mentioning that the Shura Council originally had 20 appointed members, which has been subsequently amended several times. The current Council has 45 members. Of the total number, 30 are directly elected via secret general ballot, whilst the remaining 15 are appointed by H H the Amir.
As the Shura Council evolved, a visionary declaration by the leadership announced that Shura Council elections would take place for the first time in 2021 – ushering in a new chapter for the country.
As a new phase of the Shura Council begins today, the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will patronise the opening of the third regular session of the first legislative term, corresponding to the 52nd annual session of the Shura Council. This further highlights the synergy between the government and the legislature, demonstrating the government’s commitment to inclusive government and the country’s progressive development.
Over the years, the Shura Council has exercised its powers to adopt, approve, or even reject some laws from the draft laws and other issues presented to it. The Council has the mandate to discuss and propose many issues -- most importantly, the discussion of draft laws, decrees by laws, and the country’s general policy in the political, economic and administrative aspects.
Externally, the Shura Council has registered its presence among parliamentary assemblies in various countries, received many visiting parliamentary delegations, and hosted many international events and activities concerned with parliamentary affairs. Through its activities, the Programme Office on Parliamentary Engagement in Preventing and Countering Terrorism (UNOCT) has been established in Doha via a partnership with the UN.
The numerous reforms of the Shura Council align with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. The legislative branch of government has been strengthened and enhanced the involvement of citizens in the political process.
