Qatar Govt.: Introduction
Qatar Govt.: Introduction Last updated on Thursday 22nd April 2010
Qatar is an emirate ruled by Sheikh Hamad Khalifa Al-Thani, who is the head of state. According to the modified provisional constitution, the Emir decrees laws upon the recommendation of the Council of Ministers and after consultation with the Advisory Council. Appointed by an Emiri decree, the Council of Ministers, is the highest executive authority in the state.
Advisory Council
The Advisory Council met for the first time met on the 15th of May 1972. t was formed according to the Modified Provisional Constitution, which was enacted in 1972. The Council constitutes 35 members who must be sensible, wise, competent representing one of the social sectors or the country. It debates all political, administrative, economic legislative, legal and other issues of public interest submitted by the Government. Before making his final decision, the Emir usually takes into consideration the Council’s views and recommendations.
Permanent Committees
The Advisory Council has the following five permanent committees:
Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee
Financial and Economic Affairs Committee
Public Services Committee
Internal and External Affairs Committee
Cultural Affairs and Information Committee
Council Operation
The council debates issues referred to it by the Council of Ministers such as new legislations, amendments to existing legislations in addition to other matters. It also debates matters proposed by its members. Through its various committees, the council addresses budgets of larger government projects, the state’s internal affairs, drafts proposed legislations as well as addressing the general policy of the state. The Advisory Council can request the Council of Ministers to submit data and information regarding any subject that falls under its jurisdiction. It can also request any minister to submit detailed information in connection with matters handled by his Ministry.
Council of Ministers work
The Council works on the basis of ministerial joint accountability to His Highness the Amir. The ministers are responsible for carrying out the state's policies as well as achieving the optimum possible social, cultural and administrative development for the country. Moreover, the ministers propose draft laws, by-laws and regulations prepared by their ministries. They also assigned the talk of monitoring the execution of laws, legal judgements and regulations as well as monitoring the state's expenditure. The draft state budget should also be prepared by ministers together with adopting the required measures to ensure the public order and national security. The ministers also, within their jurisdiction, safeguard the state's interest abroad including establishing international relations according to law.
Visit Web http://www.mofa.gov.qa/ (Arabic) or http://english.mofa.gov.qa/ (English) for more information on Qatar Govt.