The Shura Council’s recent review of a proposal to hold a general debate on childhood obesity reflects a timely and necessary focus on an important public health topic. In placing this issue on its agenda, the Council has reaffirmed that the health of children and youth is not only a medical concern, but a national responsibility that sits at the heart of Qatar’s public policy and development vision.
The discussion, held under the chairmanship of Speaker of the Shura Council H E Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim, was firmly grounded in constitutional principles. Articles 22 and 23 of the Permanent Constitution clearly assign the State the duty to care for children, protect them from neglect and exploitation, and ensure their sound physical, mental and moral development. Such focus on health is also aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030’s emphasis on human development.
What emerged clearly from members’ interventions is an understanding that childhood obesity is a complex, multifaceted issue. It is driven by changes in lifestyle, reduced physical activity, increased consumption of fast food and sugary drinks, shifting family eating habits, and gaps in nutritional awareness. This acknowledgement is important, as it moves the discussion beyond simplified explanations and towards comprehensive, evidence-based solutions.
Members’ calls for coordinated and institutional responses highlight the need for integration across sectors. Schools, families, health authorities, municipalities and the private sector all have roles to play. Regulating food-related activities in educational institutions, ensuring that school canteens comply with approved health standards, and strengthening awareness programmes within schools are practical measures that can shape healthier daily environments for children. Equally important is the integration of healthy nutrition and physical activity into curricula and extracurricular activities, embedding these concepts as part of everyday learning.
The Council’s emphasis on transparency in the food sector also deserves attention. Requiring restaurants and food companies to clearly disclose calorie counts, ingredients and food sources empowers families to make informed dietary choices for their children. Such measures not only support individual decision-making but also encourage the food industry to align more closely with public health objectives.
The session also recognised the State’s ongoing efforts to promote public health and prevent chronic diseases. Qatar has invested significantly in preventive healthcare, awareness campaigns and policies aimed at improving lifestyle choices.
