Page 47 - FDF PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

5/19/25, 11:22 AM FDF holds a dialogue session in conjunction with the International Day of Families - Middle East Business News and Information - …
across the region. These programs cover a wide range of areas, including education, health, housing, employment,
along with numerous innovative initiatives that empower Emirati families and fortify their unity.

Her Excellency Al Rumaithi said, “The foundation of our upbringing was the belief that the family acts as a mirror,
reflecting our first impression of ourselves before facing the outside world. In its embrace, principles are formed, values
are fostered, and the foundations of belonging are solidified. The family is central to our mission, both in words and in
action, by virtue of the wise guidance and visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, ‘Mother of
the Nation’, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation,
and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. Her Highness has dedicated countless hours to
elevate families and reaffirm its critical role in nurturing future generations with a sense of ethics, integrity, and
community. Today, her inspirational leadership is the cornerstone of several projects and programs that foster family
stability and social cohesion.”

Her Excellency added, “Regardless of the challenges, especially those related to senior citizens, improving the standard
of life for families and guaranteeing the stability of each family member continues to be our top priority. We are
steadfast in our resolve to provide senior citizens with a dignified setting that promotes their active engagement in
society. This commitment is carried out by developing holistic programs and initiatives that support their physical and
mental health, uphold the principles of respect and care in their family circles, motivate them to participate in
community activities, and emphasise their crucial role as sources of insight and experience. The well-being of senior
citizens exemplifies the values of our cohesive Emirati society, which honours all of its members, protects their rights,
and ensures a dignified and secure life.”

Additionally, Al Rumaithi stated that the International Day of Families provides an opportunity to consider our
responsibilities towards our families and reaffirm our resolve to foster a family environment rooted in love,
understanding, and respect. Guided by the vision of our wise leadership and inspired by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima
bint Mubarak, ‘Mother of the Nation’, the foundation remains committed to strengthening the fundamentals of the
family and enabling it to remain the pillar for a cohesive society.

Confronting Demographic Challenges:

H.E. Dr. Mona Al Bahar, Advisor to the Chairman of the Department of Community Development, outlined the
comprehensive strategies and social policies developed by the Department to address the diverse needs of residents.
These initiatives are designed to empower families, support all members, and foster healthy households that benefit
from an elevated quality of life enabling them to contribute positively to the growth of the community.

Given the current rate of digital transformation, Dr. Al Bahar emphasised the critical need for societies to adopt policies
centred on digital balance, or the quality of digital life, with particular focus on the younger generation. She emphasised
the importance of early training in developing a mindful approach to technology, making certain that digital
engagement does not interfere with essential family and social interactions. This concern was backed by a Quality of
Life Survey from the Department of Community Development, which stated that youths spend more than eight hours a
day in front of screens, which greatly reduces their time spent with family and broader social networks.

During the session, Dr. Al Bahar also underscored the pivotal role of social policies in strengthening family cohesion and
resilience, especially amid global technological and demographic shifts. She highlighted the necessity of family-friendly
policies that equip households to navigate challenges and adapt to internal and external changes. She cautioned that
without such adaptability, families risk losing stability and balance, both of which are essential for overcoming
adversity.
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