Doha Debates Organizes Discussion on Western Perspectives

Doha Debates

"Doha Debates Tackles Western Narratives in Discussion on Global Justice

In a recent town hall jointly hosted by Qatar Foundation’s Doha Debates and the Bradford Literature Festival in the UK, the focus was on the control of narratives, particularly regarding global justice and free speech. The event, held on July 6, brought together media experts, university students, and recent graduates for a nuanced exploration of these pressing topics.

The discussion kicked off with a quote from George Orwell's "1984" displayed prominently behind the panelists: "Who controls the past, controls the future: who controls the present, controls the past."

Novelist Fatima Bhutto, known for her book "New Kings of the World," asserted that Western media primarily promotes its own interests rather than global justice. She highlighted Western support for Israel as a clear example where geopolitical interests overshadow humanitarian considerations.

Journalist Steve Clemons countered Bhutto's stance, defending Western journalism's pursuit of critical thinking and civil rights values, albeit acknowledging challenges from state interference and censorship.

Konstantin Kisin, author of "An Immigrant’s Love Letter to the West," acknowledged erosion of Western values but argued for their comparative superiority among global civilizations, likening it to assessing the speed of a sprinter.

Moderated by Remona Aly, the event also featured active participation from students and graduates from Qatar and the UK, enriching the dialogue with diverse perspectives.

This town hall marks the sixth installment by Doha Debates, continuing its tradition of addressing critical global issues and fostering informed discussions on topics ranging from leadership dynamics to cultural identities."

 

Source :The Peninsula Qatar