THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE QATAR HEALTHY CITIES PROGRAMME TO ADVANCING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN QATAR

Abstract

In 2022, Qatar achieved the World Health Organization (WHO) Healthy Cities accreditation for all eight municipalities, marking a significant milestone in its Public Health efforts. However, with a ranking of 102 out of 166 on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index and a score of 64.93, there remains substantial room for progress. As part of the ongoing Phase VII of the Healthy Cities Programme (HCP) (2019-2025), there is an increased focus on aligning the program with global strategies such as the United Nations 2030 Agenda, emphasizing a whole-of-government approach. This study examines stakeholders' perspectives on the HCP's contribution to advancing the SDGs in Qatar. The study adopted an interpretivist qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews to gather insights from stakeholders within the Healthy Cities Network who have experience with HCP or SDG-related initiatives. Participants were recruited via email through purposive, convenience, and snowball sampling methods. Data were analyzed using an inductive-deductive thematic approach in NVivo, following Braun and Clarke's six-step framework. The enhance rigor and ensure transparency in reporting, the study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) framework. The analysis focused on four key concepts: the HCP's current role in advancing the SDGs, as well as the enablers, barriers, and opportunities shaping its impact. Themes related to these concepts were identified based on insights from 11 stakeholders, who highlighted the HCP's current role in advancing the SDGs, as well as the enablers, barriers, and opportunities influencing its impact. Stakeholders recognized the HCP's strong alignment with all 17 SDGs, its multisectoral and proactive approach, and its credibility within Qatar. Leadership, strategic support, and national development were identified as the most mentioned enablers, while monitoring and evaluation and awareness issues emerged as key barriers. Opportunities for improvement include enhancing stakeholder and Healthy Cities Network engagement, refining and adapting indicators, and identifying key priority areas for development. These findings provide valuable insights for policy development and the HCP's re-evaluation cycle, underscoring the importance of sustained monitoring and long-term commitment. Key recommendations include increasing community engagement, fostering cross-sectoral integration and enhancing data collection and evaluation frameworks.