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In celebration of the International Day of Families, the Family Development Foundation (FDF) hosted a dialogue session titled “Intergenerational Solidarity and Its Role in Building a Cohesive Society and a Strong National Identity”. The session was held at Al Falah Majlis, a part of the Abu Dhabi Majalis initiative under the Office of Citizens and Community Affairs at the Presidential Court.

The event took place in the esteemed presence of Sheikha Moza bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Ambassador of Elderly Projects at PureHealth. Also in attendance were Her Excellency Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the FDF; H.E. Dr. Mona Al Bahar, Advisor to the Chairman of the Department of Community Development; and Her Excellency Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department at FDF. Staff members of the Foundation and representatives of partner organizations also participated in the event.

The session highlighted the essential role of families as the foundation of societal development and social cohesion. Discussions focused on the importance of intergenerational solidarity in preserving cultural heritage, fostering national identity, and ensuring sustainable social development.

Upholding Leadership's Vision for Family Welfare

Her Excellency Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi opened the session by emphasizing the symbolic role of the family as a mirror reflecting individual values and societal ethics. She reiterated the FDF’s commitment to strengthening families in line with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

Al Rumaithi praised Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” for her enduring support and visionary leadership in promoting family welfare and stability. She underlined that several programs spearheaded under Her Highness’s guidance focus on empowering Emirati families, supporting their physical and mental well-being, and preserving family cohesion across generations.

Al Rumaithi also stressed the Foundation’s dedication to enhancing the lives of senior citizens through inclusive programs that encourage their active societal participation, celebrate their wisdom, and ensure their dignity within family and community settings.

Navigating Social and Digital Challenges

Addressing the audience, H.E. Dr. Mona Al Bahar detailed the Department of Community Development’s policies designed to address emerging social challenges. She highlighted the need to promote digital balance, particularly among youth, as excessive screen time is increasingly reducing family interaction. Citing the Department’s Quality of Life Survey, Dr. Al Bahar emphasized the urgency of early education to foster mindful digital engagement without compromising social and familial ties.

She further discussed the role of adaptable and inclusive social policies in enhancing family resilience amid technological and demographic transformations. Such policies, she noted, are vital in helping families maintain stability in an evolving world.

Promoting Intergenerational Solidarity

Her Excellency Wafa Mohammed Al Ali delivered a keynote speech underscoring the significance of intergenerational solidarity in shaping national identity and communal unity. “Intergenerational solidarity is essential in bridging the gap between generations and promoting shared values, cultural understanding, and national loyalty,” she stated.

Al Ali elaborated on FDF’s efforts to develop innovative programs that foster intergenerational dialogue and knowledge exchange. She described these initiatives as part of a broader national strategy to enhance social cohesion and preserve the moral and cultural legacy of the UAE.

She also reaffirmed the Foundation's ongoing commitment to supporting senior citizens and families, positioning solidarity not only as a familial responsibility but as a societal pillar for long-term sustainability and harmony.

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