Page 60 - FDF PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

5/19/25, 11:32 AM Latest News
Her Excellency Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation, cordially welcomed the
attendees and spoke about the significance of family as the foundation of a stable society. This focus symbolises the commitment of our
wise leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who is dedicated to building an
integrated ecosystem of policies and programs supporting families 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.
Intergenerational Solidarity
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