Page 51 - WATANI Al EMARAT FOUNDATION PR REPORT - APRIL 2024

4/25/24, 1:27 PM DIHAD 2024: Spotlight on gender equality, youth empowerment, and global health advocacy by humanitarian leaders
This year, DIHAD 2024 brings together key decision-makers from leading NGOs, UN
Agencies, charity organizations, and governmental bodies, together with aid, education,

and construction providers from the private sector, to address the needs of people and

countries affected by crises, disasters, and natural calamities under the theme
“Humanitarian Diplomacy and a Journey to the Future.”.

The activities of DIHAD Glasshouse carried on today its specialized workshops, serving
as a sustainable incubator for emerging humanitarians. It empowers them to bring their

projects to fruition by fostering partnerships, facilitating meaningful discussions, sharing
expertise, and innovating solutions for the betterment of humanity.

The focus of the second day's sessions encompassed a variety of topics, with attendees
engaging in discussions aimed at optimizing resource allocation to ensure the provision of

top-tier healthcare and education services.

Ms. Laila Baker, Regional Director for Arab States at the United Nations Fund for
Population Activities (UNFPA), emphasized the pivotal role of humanitarian diplomacy in

addressing gender equality issues, particularly concerning women and youth.

In her address, she underscored the complicated challenges faced by women,

highlighting the interconnectivity of their experiences amidst complex crises.

Central to her message, Ms. Laila Baker underscored the importance of increased

inclusion and empowerment of women and youth, acknowledging their capacity to drive
transformative change in humanitarian responses.

Additionally, she emphasized that fostering gender equality is not only a moral imperative

but also essential for building resilient and sustainable communities in the face of
adversity. In the same session, from his side, H.E. Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi, Executive

Director of the Watani Al Emarat Foundation and the PAM Special Representative on
Children and Conflict, delivered a compelling speech on the amplified significance of

women and youth in humanitarian diplomacy.

H.E. Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi stated: "Inclusive policies and initiatives are essential in
addressing the diverse needs of women and youth, particularly in conflict-affected

regions. Empowering them as key agents of change and actively involving them in

decision-making processes and humanitarian initiatives is vital. Gender equality and youth
empowerment play pivotal roles in fostering sustainable and inclusive humanitarian

action.”

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