Doha: The State of Qatar, represented by Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), launched Monday in Doha the CONNECT 25 Technology Conference. The five-day event is being held in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). It brings together leaders and representatives of 32 National Societies around the world to exchange insights and experiences, and to share the latest digital transformation achievements of the international humanitarian community.

According to Qatar News Agency, in his keynote speech, QRCS President Yousef bin Ali Al-Khater emphasized the event’s role as a participatory platform to leverage technological advancements and innovation to enhance relief and development operations. He highlighted the significance of aligning these efforts with Qatar’s policy of establishing a top-tier scientific, technological, and information infrastructure.

The launch was attended by QRCS Secretary-General Faisal Mohamed Al-Emadi, Head of Delegation at ICRC – GCC Mamadou Sow, and Director of Digital Transformation at IFRC Juriaan Lahr. An opening panel discussion featured leaders from IFRC, ICRC, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, the Egyptian Red Crescent, the Finnish Red Cross, the Kenyan Red Cross, and Boston Consulting Group.

The event’s agenda includes topics such as Artificial Intelligence in Humanitarian Work, ICRC Technology Strategy and Dilemma in Tech Choice, Intro to Digital Transformation Impact Platform, Minimum Technology Blueprints, Digital Products for Integrated Assistance, the Business Case for Human-Centered Design in Digital Solutions, Data Governance and Compliance in Humanitarian Work, Telecommunications for Humanitarian Operations, and Cyber Hygiene.