The objective of this project is to assess the level-amount of social capital in Qatar. Broadly defined, social capital refers to connections within and between social networks; it is usually a measurement of social interaction, political participation, readiness for critical incidents and social mobility. As defined by Neva Goodwin et al. (2005, p. 124), social capital is ?the stock of trust, mutual understanding, shared values, and socially held knowledge that facilitates the social coordination of economic activity?.
This study will be based on a national survey of Qatari citizens and Qatari residents, including expatriate workers and migrant workers. Feedback from the survey will assist the Qatari communities, Qatari citizens, residents, as well as policy makers and political leaders in identifying strengths and weaknesses in the social fabric. Results of the study will also help in the understanding of the of dynamics between community groups (citizens and residents) and in the building of effective partnerships to address critical incidents and emergencies in Qatar. There is a growing evidence among development economists today that sustainable development not only needs the traditional factors of production such physical and financial capital, but also an important level of social capital. In addition, this study will serve as a benchmark for future assessment of social capital in Qatar.