Qatar’s Political System: Things to Know

The political system of a country is it’s way of making official decisions as a government. Qatar’s political system has an executive, legislative, and judicial branch that have worked so well together over the past couple of years, that the country has undergone a major rags to riches transformation.

If you’re interested in visiting Qatar or staying in the country for good, then knowing its political system is a must. You need to know how the government works, not only because it concerns you, but also because it helps you know how you can contribute to the country’s success.

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How the Politics of Qatar’s Government Looks Like

1. Executive Branch

The Head of State of the Emirate of Qatar is Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. Unlike in democratic nations, the Emir is not voted for; rather, it is a hereditary position, and the next in line is most likely Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.

2. Legislative Branch

The Emir will make the final decision on whether or not to approve laws, which are drafted by the Advisory Council, also known as the Shura Council. Out of the 45 members of the Advisory Council, 15 are chosen by the Emir, while 30 are elected.

3. Judicial Branch

There are three major courts in the Judicial branch of Qatar, all established during 2007. These are the Courts of First Instance, Appeal and Cassation, a Constitutional Court and an Administration Court. All of the judges in these courts have a three-year term, and are recommended by the Supreme Judiciary Council. The Amiri decree, the decree of an Emir or his representatives, can also cause the appointment of these judges.

4. Sharia Law

Qatar is an absolute monarchy or a constitutional monarchy. Its legislation is mostly based on the Sharia Law, which encompasses laws related to inheritance, family, and certain criminal acts like murder, robbery, and adultery. One interesting punishment implemented in Qatar under Sharia Law is flogging. For example, when one is caught engaging in adultery, the recommended punishment is 100 lashes.

5. Ministries

Qatar has a lot of Ministries that oversee numerous aspects of the country’s society. These include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defense, the Interior, Public Health, Energy and Industry, Municipal and Urban Planning, Environment, Finance, Culture, Arts and Heritage, Labor and Social Affairs, Education and Higher Education, Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Amiri Diwan, Investment Promotions Department, Supreme Council for Family Affairs, Supreme Judiciary Council, Public Prosecution, and Qatar News Agency.

This article is a sneak preview of what the Qatar Political System looks like. To be a responsible citizen or member of the Qatar community, you need to know its politics, which makes you aware of what’s happening around you.