Post by : Maya Rahman

The opening of the Third Edition of the Child Safety Forum 2025 was heralded by H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council, at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, themed “Protect Their Innocence.”

This significant gathering assembled key figures from childhood organizations, psychology, education, and digital safety, uniting local and international experts, advocates, and parents dedicated to reinforcing family dynamics. The event stands as a testament to Sharjah’s unwavering commitment to child protection and robust social support.

Aiming to establish itself as a cornerstone dialogue platform, the Forum addresses potential challenges arising from rapid social and digital transformations globally. It seeks to craft policies and solutions fostering children’s safety and emotional health.

H.H. Sheikha Jawaher underscored the moral imperative of safeguarding children, highlighting the essence of parental presence. By advocating for quality engagement with their children, she emphasized the role of parents in nurturing self-esteem and preparedness for the world.

“Prevention begins at home,” she articulated. “Being close to your children delivers authentic protection. Every moment invested is vital for their future and security. ”

Sharjah has earned recognition as a Baby and Family-Friendly Emirate, marking a trajectory of social advancement initiated in the 1950s. This accolade mirrors the Emirate’s dedication to family welfare and prioritizing children’s wellbeing.

Hanadi Al Yafei, the Director General of Child Safety, remarked on contemporary challenges faced by children, heightened by pervasive digital influences. She illustrated that safeguarding children encompasses not just external threats, but also the awareness and management of digital encounters in their lives. Modern parenting demands attentiveness to children’s emotional landscapes and needs.

Under the esteemed guidance of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher, the Child Safety initiative has evolved into a trailblazing model for child protection, promoting awareness and safety initiatives throughout Sharjah and the UAE.

The Forum incorporated diverse sessions, beginning with, “The World is Seeping into Our Homes… Who is Educating Our Children?” featuring experts like Dr. Mohammed Al Kaabi, Dr. Hind Al Badwawi, Ms. Moza Al Shoomi, and Dr. Khalil Al Zeyoud as they delved into emotional security, child rights, family legislation, and digital literacy.

Another impactful session, “Fear of Society: When Silence Becomes the Enemy,” pressed the need for children to feel secure in expressing themselves and the community’s role in alleviating stigma related to behavioral issues.

The third discussion highlighted the essential role of fathers in emotional support, communication, and understanding their children’s digital world through “Fathers Who Make a Difference Across Generations.”

This Forum solidifies Sharjah’s leadership in child safeguarding, emphasizing collective responsibility between families and community organizations to ensure children’s innocence and holistic development.

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