Today's Edition
Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)
A cohesive family is the “nucleus” of a stable and secure Emirati society, pivotal for the prosperity of all citizens, said Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation (FDF).
Her remarks were made during the third session of the Social Media Platform, marking the launch of the “Kindness & Mercy” campaign, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.
Al Rumaithi opened her address by quoting President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who said: “The government places a significant value on the family as it is the first school of education and the cornerstone of a robust and stable society. In line with this, its programmes and strategies aim to strengthen family cohesion and empower it to achieve its essential function.”
Furthermore, she quoted a statement from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, in which he said: “May God bless your marriage, and may you create a new, cohesive Emirati family that is filled with love and kindness while upholding best morals. May your family serve as the centre of blessings, compassion, and generosity in our community. God be with you.”
“The wisdom shared by Their Highnesses transcend beyond mere moments; they are worthy of thoughtful contemplation. Based on the principles that cherish familial bonds and stability, these words serve as a foundation for fostering healthy and coherent families. Through their guidance, a sophisticated community can be established that is empowered to achieve greatness, contributing meaningfully to the sustainability of our societal fabric and the advancement of our nation,” Al Rumaithi explained.
The FDF Director General noted that this campaign is primarily focused on achieving family stability and social cohesion through supporting the formation of resilient families prepared for the challenges of marital life, and upholding values that sustain their stability and sustainability. The campaign will provide prospective spouses with access to services and programmes rooted in authentic Emirati values and aligned with the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy.
Al Rumaithi noted that the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi leads local efforts to promote social cohesion, following a strategy that aims to improve the quality of family life and cultivate an environment of social cooperation, ultimately ensuring prosperity and development for all members of society.
She further highlighted the integral role of the FDF, which has worked to realise the visionary goals of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak since its inception in 2006, focusing on social protection, stability, and security. In its third edition, the FDF’s annual Social Media Platform remains committed to fostering family stability, empowering youth to build strong families for the betterment of both the community and the nation of the UAE.
”We are committed to taking proactive measures, guided by the directives of Her Highness and the vision of our wise leadership, which recognises families as the cornerstone of a unified society,” she added.
Al Rumaithi outlined the findings of research on the attitudes of Emirati youth towards marriage, indicating a decrease in marriage rates due to financial constraints, resulting in lower birth rates among citizens and potentially affecting future population growth. She stressed that tackling these challenges necessitates heightened social awareness and the adoption of measures to promote timely marriage among youth, supported by collaborative efforts among relevant stakeholders.
”With dedication, sincerity, and accountability, we pledge our commitment to the directives of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation. In line with this commitment, we have launched the social media campaign ‘Kindness and Mercy’ to underscore the significance of preparing the youth for a healthy and happy family life,” she said.
“Kindness & Mercy” will work to prepare future generations to embrace familial responsibilities and uphold family values, in addition to alleviating social pressures and expenses associated with marriage, she added, stating: “This initiative aims to inspire young adults to promote family values, alleviate societal pressures, reduce expenditures, and appreciate the role of families as the bedrock of society. Furthermore, the campaign aims to foster a positive attitude towards marriage among young adults, nurturing a generation that values the institution of marriage as the foundation to family building and stability. Additionally, it seeks to catalyse societal shifts in attitudes and customs that may affect marriage, further fostering a supportive environment for family formation.”
Closing her address, Al Rumaithi expressed her gratitude to H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her tireless dedication and visionary directives aimed at driving societal advancement and achieving stability across diverse social groups, and acknowledged Her Highness’ long-standing support, invaluable guidance, and constant vigilance on societal needs. She also extended her heartfelt appreciation for Her Highness’ proactive approach in addressing challenges that hinder both national progress and the wellbeing of all citizens.
In an interview with Aletihad on the objectives of the campaign, Wafa Al Ali, Acting Director of the Family Development Department at FDF, emphasised the necessity of dispelling misconceptions and addressing apprehensions surrounding family dynamics and marriage, particularly among the youth.
The aim is to pool the efforts and resources of concerned stakeholders to strengthen family cohesion and stability. This will involve organising empowerment workshops for youth, providing individual and group counseling sessions, conducting awareness programnes, and engaging with the media, according to Al Ali.
“The current services offered by the FDF cater to all segments of society, starting with children, who are fundamental to family formation. A child raised in a nurturing social environment is more likely to establish a healthy family, which is a cornerstone of Emirati society,” she said.
The campaign was launched in collaboration with key strategic partners, including the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, Abu Dhabi Police, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Community Development, Department of Community Development, Department of Health, Department of Municipalities and Transport - Abu Dhabi City Municipality, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, Department of Government Enablement, Abu Dhabi Media Office, Family Care Authority, General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, ADNOC, Authority of Social Contributions - Ma’an, Emirates Schools Establishment, Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Alef Education, Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre , Family Development Department and Branches, as well as UAE Forsan.
