The Government
The provisional modified constitution stipulates that Qatar is an independent and sovereign Arab country. Islam is the official religion and the main source of legislation, and the system is democratic. Arabic is the official language and its people are Arabs.
In accordance which its legal constitution, the state supervises and guides the national economy for the welfare of the country and its people. Private property, capital and labour are the main pillars of the country's social structure organised by law. The state guarantees free economic activity provided that it does not conflict with public interest.
The state also guarantees freedom of residence, a free press and respect for personal property. Qatari citizens are assured equal rights and obligations and its responsibility of the state to provide public jobs.
These and other rights are defined within the country's constitution which stipulates the following administrative structure for the government.
The Emir is the Head of State. The system of government is hereditary within the Al Thani Family. Article 17 of the provisional modified constitution stipulates the the Emir shall issue laws according to the proposal of the cabinet and after consultation with the Shura Council (Advisory Council).
The Cabinet, comprising a Council of Ministers, is the highest executive body, and is presided over by HH the Prime Minister.
The Ministers are, at present, thirteen in number, with responsibilities divided as follows:
- Ministry of Defence.
- Ministry of Interior.
- Ministry of Finance, Economy and Trade.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Ministry of Civil Service and Housing Affairs.
- Ministry of Communications and Transport.
- Ministry of Electricity and Water.
- Ministry of Energy and Industry.
- Ministry of Municipality and Agricultural Affairs.
- Ministry of Education and Higher Education.
- Ministry of Public Health.
- Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs.
- Ministry of Justice.
The Advisory Council, the first democratic government institution established since independence in 1972, has proved to be successful and is considered to be suitable to the country's political and social circumstances. It has received strong support from HH The Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani who holds regular consultations with the Advisory Council and takes into considerations its recommendations on different issues. In addition the cabinet ministers attend Advisory Council sessions and committees, providing an opportunity for constructive exchange of views and for the ministers to respond to queries raised by council members.
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