The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Forum on Insolvency and Restructuring Reform opened today in Doha under the theme “Preserving Value through Efficient Restructuring and Exit.” The two-day event is organised by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in cooperation with the World Bank Group and INSOL International. 

The opening session was attended by representatives of government and private sector entities in the State of Qatar, along with senior officials, experts, and specialists from across the region and beyond. 

In their remarks, representatives of the organising bodies underlined the importance of developing effective insolvency and restructuring systems, strengthening regional cooperation, and adopting international best practices in this field. 

The first day featured panel discussions and workshops highlighting international expertise in developing insolvency legislation and implementation mechanisms. Participants examined key challenges facing the region and discussed recent innovations aimed at streamlining insolvency proceedings, including electronic case management systems that accelerate processes and enhance transparency. 

Sessions also explored ways to advance restructuring practices in the MENA region, encouraging business leaders and stakeholders to make greater use of restructuring options available under insolvency laws. Discussions addressed overcoming the stigma associated with insolvency, promoting a culture of corporate restructuring, and ensuring business continuity and sustainability. 

Over two days, the forum features specialised sessions on building the capacity of insolvency practitioners through effective regulatory frameworks, licensing, and supervision. It also highlights the role of technology and artificial intelligence in improving legal and regulatory efficiency, and examines the relationship between laws and insolvency legislation. A workshop on preventive insolvency tools discusses advanced global restructuring strategies, including early-warning mechanisms and pre-insolvency frameworks. 

The forum concludes with an open discussion session for sharing insights and practical recommendations to strengthen insolvency systems across the region. 

The event seeks to foster high-level dialogue among the private sector, policymakers, academics, and judges on insolvency law, creditor rights, and restructuring. It serves as a platform for knowledge exchange among international institutions, governments, and professionals, supporting regional reform efforts and promoting ongoing collaboration and learning. 

Since its launch in 2023 by the World Bank Group and INSOL International, the MENA Forum has become a leading regional platform for advancing knowledge and best practices in insolvency and restructuring.