Page 57 - FDF PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

5/19/25, 11:23 AM FDF holds a dialogue session in conjunction with the International Day of Families | Web Release
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.

Intergenerational Solidarity

Her Excellency Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department at FDF, delivered a compelling speech
titled ‘Intergenerational Solidarity: A Positive Approach to Supporting Family Cohesion and Enhancing National Identity.’ During the speech, she
articulated the profound significance of fostering bonds between generations, and stated, “Intergenerational solidarity is critical in strengthening family
unity and national identity by bridging the gap between the elderly and youth. This exchange of wisdom and values fosters communal belonging while
also reinforcing loyalty to the nation in today’s rapidly changing societal landscape.”

H.E. Al Ali added, “The FDF is committed to promoting family solidarity through innovative programs that encourage constructive dialogue and the
intergenerational exchange of knowledge and ethics. These efforts are instrumental in building stable families and a harmonious society.”

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