Community Committee Strengthens ‘Year of Family’ Initiatives to Enhance Social Reassurance
The Community Sector Committee of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD) convened a meeting chaired by H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chair of the Council. The session focused on enhancing community reassurance and supporting families across the UAE, aligning with national initiatives for the Year of Family 2026.
Discussion on National Initiatives
During the meeting, the Committee reviewed various initiatives aimed at placing families at the core of national efforts. These initiatives are designed to advance national priorities by developing policies that promote family growth and stability. The emphasis was placed on the family’s role as a fundamental element of social cohesion and sustainable development.
The Committee underscored the importance of institutions in providing social and moral support to diverse segments of society. This collective effort aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility and strengthen the culture of solidarity prevalent in UAE society.
Key Attendees and Presentations
Notable attendees included Shamma bint Sohail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Empowerment; Sana bint Mohamed Suhail, Minister of Family; Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai; Hajar Ahmed Al Thehli, Secretary General of the Council; Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi; and Mariam Majid Saeed Al Shamsi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Social Services Department.
Sana bint Mohammed Suhail presented updates on the comprehensive national plan for the Year of Family, themed “Growth and Belonging.” This plan aims to strengthen family and community cohesion, raise awareness of family-related issues, and develop supportive legislation and policies.
Initiatives Supporting Family Growth
The plan includes initiatives targeting individuals preparing for marriage under the UAE Family Growth Strategy 2031. These initiatives focus on reviewing human resources policies related to family support, enhancing benefits that facilitate family formation, and promoting family-friendly workplace environments.
Additionally, the Minister of Family discussed initiatives aimed at reinforcing family values and the role of families in child-rearing and community cohesion. This includes the establishment of the Child Digital Safety Council and the development of policies governing social media usage.
Community Empowerment Efforts
Shamma bint Sohail Al Mazrui reviewed the Ministry’s efforts under the Year of Family 2026, highlighting the role of the third sector in supporting family-related initiatives. The focus is on developing community programs that enhance family cohesion and reinforce social values.
The Minister of Community Empowerment emphasized community initiatives designed to increase family participation in social activities, promote volunteerism, and strengthen societal support for families.
Abu Dhabi’s Community Development Initiatives
Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri provided insights into Abu Dhabi’s efforts to enhance community initiatives that support families. The presentation highlighted proactive measures to maintain communication with vulnerable groups and ensure service continuity through virtual channels.
Efforts to support senior citizens, low-income individuals, People of Determination, and volunteers were also discussed. The initiatives under the Abu Dhabi Family Growth Agenda focus on family formation, stability, and empowerment.
Dubai’s Support for Families
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid reviewed community efforts in Dubai aimed at supporting families and various societal segments. These efforts included outreach to check on the wellbeing of People of Determination, foster families, and senior citizens.
The Director General also discussed the dissemination of awareness bulletins on managing crises and family mental wellbeing, along with field visits to provide reassurance and support.
Sharjah’s Community Initiatives
Mariam Majid Saeed Al Shamsi presented the Sharjah Social Services Department’s efforts to support the community during this period. The focus was on initiatives that promote intergenerational cohesion and empower senior citizens to pass on Emirati values and heritage.
The presentation also addressed social, economic, and health support for families, along with initiatives aimed at reviving community spirit and strengthening family bonds.
Importance of Coordination and Integration
The Committee emphasized the necessity of ongoing coordination among relevant entities in the social sector. By leveraging successful practices from each emirate, the Committee aims to advance initiatives and policies that support families, thereby reinforcing the stability of the Emirati family as the foundation of a cohesive and sustainable society.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-03-13 00:33:00 • By Editorial Desk
