The 20th edition of the annual Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development (DIHAD 2024) Conference & Exhibition is set to kick off on 23rd April 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.
DIHAD celebrates its 20th anniversary as the premier global event for humanitarian aid and development, uniting leaders from various sectors to address pressing issues and foster collaboration. With the theme "DIHAD 2004-2024: Humanitarian Diplomacy and a Journey to the Future," the event reflects on past achievements and aims to build a more resilient future. The Kingdom of Norway is honored as the guest of honor, recognizing its significant contributions to the humanitarian sector.
Expecting over 16,000 participants from 154 countries, DIHAD 2024's agenda includes discussions on humanitarian diplomacy, climate change, global health, and the role of women and youth.
Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani emphasizes the UAE's commitment to humanitarian causes and promoting peace. With 131 speakers and 24 main sessions, DIHAD 2024 provides a platform for crucial discussions and practical solutions in humanitarian diplomacy.
Ambassador Gerhard J.W. Putman-Cramer, CEO of DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Foundation, invites stakeholders from various sectors to join DIHAD 2024, focusing on the theme of humanitarian diplomacy and its role in shaping the future. He emphasizes the need to review the foundations and future of humanitarian diplomacy, especially in light of ongoing conflicts affecting civilian populations. The program will feature distinguished speakers and discussions highlighting the UAE's role in global challenges and sustainable humanitarian efforts. The exhibition will showcase country pavilions and organizations, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in addressing cross-border challenges.
Innovation Norway
"Innovation Norway," the Norwegian government’s trade representative abroad, expresses gratitude for being named the "Country Guest of Honor" at DIHAD 2024, recognizing it as a platform to showcase Norway's contributions to the humanitarian sector. The event provides Norwegian exhibitors with an invaluable opportunity to engage with international audiences and highlight their achievements and solutions. DIHAD facilitates collaborations between assistance providers, corporate stakeholders, and governments to aid those in need. Held alongside the International Emergency and Catastrophe Management (IECM) edition, DIHAD promotes emergency and disaster management solutions to a relevant audience.
DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Organisation has been dedicated to humanitarian aid and peace promotion for nearly two decades, launching initiatives benefiting communities worldwide. Organized by INDEX Conference and Exhibitions Org. LLC, DIHAD receives support from various entities, including the United Nations and UAE-based humanitarian organizations, showcasing a collaborative effort to address global humanitarian challenges.
Humanitarian diplomacy:
The concept of humanitarian diplomacy, initially employed for dialogue and NGO relations in humanitarian contexts has transitioned into a method of state foreign policy in recent years. This evolution reflects the increasing prominence of soft power strategies, given the limitations of military interventions in addressing complex global challenges.
According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the main objectives of effective humanitarian diplomacy include more frequent consideration by decision-makers and opinion leaders of the interests of vulnerable people and ensuring greater humanitarian access. Humanitarian diplomacy includes advocacy, negotiation, communication, formal agreements, and other measures for peacefully resolving conflicts and disputes.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
