At the Doha Debates, four speakers - two on each side - debate a controversial statement in front of participating audience.

Four speakers - two on each side - debate a controversial statement. After opening speeches, members of the 350-strong audience question the speakers directly and, at the end of the debate, vote electronically to pass or reject the motion.

Since the launch of the Doha Debates in 2004, motions have covered whether the Palestinians should give up their full right of return, how much Arab governments care about the situation in Darfur, and whether it is time to talk to Al Qaeda. Speakers have included Israeli Knesset member Yossi Beilin, former British hostage Terry Waite and Hezbollah spokesman Ibrahim El Moussaoui.

Periodically a single guest is questioned by a student-only audience. Guests of Doha Debates Special programmes have included President Bill Clinton, Israeli President Shimon Peres, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and leading Islamic scholar Shaykh Hamza Yusuf.

The Doha Debates reflect Qatar Foundation's commitment to free speech and public dialogue, and to promoting education which goes beyond acquiring knowledge to the fostering of critical thinking.

Each month, students from more than 30 high schools and universities have taken part in The Doha Debates, representing not only Qatar but countries from across the Middle East and beyond.

To learn more, please visit: www.thedohadebates.com