FDF holds a dialogue session in conjunction with the International Day of Families - Middle East Business News and Information

Mid East Info

16-05-2025

In the Presence of Sheikha Moza bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan
The Family Development Foundation (FDF) organized a dialogue session, titled 'Intergenerational Solidarity and Its Role in Building a Cohesive Society and a Strong National Identity,' coinciding with the International Day of Families. The event took place at Al Falah Majlis, part of Abu Dhabi Majalis under the Office of Citizens and Community Affairs at the Presidential Court.
The session was attended by Sheikha Moza bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Ambassador of Elderly Projects at PureHealth; Her Excellency Mariam Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation; H.E. Dr. Mona Al Bahr, Advisor to the Chairman of the Department of Community Development; Her Excellency Wafa Mohamed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department at FDF; along with staff members from the Foundation and several representatives from partner entities.
The session aimed to family as the cornerstone of societal development, emphasising its critical role in fostering social cohesion, promoting human values, and advancing sustainable development, thereby contributing to the well-being of both individuals and the wider community.
The session addressed the significance of intergenerational solidarity as a fundamental pillar in building a cohesive society that preserves its history, engages with the present, and thoughtfully shapes its future. It also emphasized the role of intergenerational dialogue in passing down values and positive traditions, strengthening national identity, and fostering a sense of responsibility and cultural awareness among the youth.
Commitment to Leadership:
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:
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.'
Expanding on the concept, H.E. Al Ali described intergenerational solidarity as a comprehensive strategy that promotes social cohesiveness and long-term sustainability. She also underlined that fostering intergenerational relationships is essential to preserving the UAE's moral and cultural legacy, much beyond a familial obligation. She went on to praise the FDF's current efforts to help seniors and families while improving household stability, and all while integrating solidarity into the fabric of society.
Safe Homes for Seniors:
Ms. Khawla Al Kaabi, Head of the Seniors Department at FDF, addressed the 'Guide to Preparing Safe Homes for Seniors' during the session. According to Ms. Al Kaabi, the guide addresses the urgent need for senior-friendly living spaces that encourage their independence while minimising everyday hazards such as falls or accidents within their homes. The ultimate goal, she affirmed, is to enable senior citizens to live safely and comfortably in their own homes.
She provided a detailed overview of the guide prepared by FDF, which offers practical guidelines and technical standards to assist families and caregivers in making necessary changes to their homes. This entails improving lighting, rearranging the flooring, and adding support handles in key areas like hallways and restrooms. It was noted that the guide includes recommendations that align with global best practices, reflecting FDF's broader mission to create an integrated, sustainable care system that ensures the overall well-being of seniors.