Latest news with #ArabParliamentfortheChild
Sharjah 24
4 hours ago
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Arab Parliament for the Child welcomes delegations to Sharjah
The session will be held from 22 to 26 July 2025, under the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, with the support and close follow-up of His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League. Djibouti and Palestine Among the First to Arrive Djibouti and Palestine were the first delegations to arrive at UAE airports, followed by the remaining participating countries: Morocco, Mauritania, Libya, the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Republic of Iraq, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of Lebanon, the State of Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. In total, 14 countries are represented, with 56 child parliamentarians accompanied by official representatives from their national parliaments and child-focused institutions. Warm Reception at UAE Airports Delegations were warmly welcomed by reception teams from the General Secretariat of the Arab Parliament for the Child, in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Sharjah Consultative Council and the Parliament's institutional partners. Children and accompanying officials were received with generous Emirati hospitality, provided with all necessary facilities, transported to their accommodation in Sharjah, and briefed on the session's schedule and planned activities. A Dialogue Platform on Cultural Identity The event forms part of the Arab Parliament for the Child's commitment to empowering Arab children to voice their perspectives on childhood issues, enhance their dialogue skills, and strengthen their awareness of Arab cultural identity. This year, the child parliamentarians will discuss the theme 'The Cultural Identity of the Arab Child' during a wide-ranging dialogue session that reflects their visions and provides a pioneering Arab model of parliamentary work for children. Message from the Secretary-General On this occasion, His Excellency Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child, welcomed the arrival of the delegations, noting that Sharjah's hosting of this significant event reflects the visionary leadership's dedication to child development. He said: 'We are pleased to welcome Arab child parliamentarians from across the region to Sharjah, a city that embraces their dreams and offers them a platform to speak, engage, and practise their parliamentary roles in a safe and open environment. The participation of 14 Arab countries underscores the growing status of the Arab Parliament for the Child and embodies the spirit of Arab unity for a brighter future for our children.' Looking Forward to an Enriching Session Al Barout added: 'We value the institutional partnerships that support the Parliament in fulfilling its mission, and we look forward to a fruitful and enriching session that will broaden the horizons of the Arab child and deepen their connection to their identity and heritage. All of this takes place in an environment that nurtures innovation and meaningful dialogue. The official session, set to open under the dome of the Arab Parliament for the Child, will stand as a meeting point of childhood and leadership, of ideas and aspirations—a moment the Arab world will witness with pride, from east to west.'
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah hosts second session of Arab Parliament for the Child
The session welcomes participation from 14 Arab countries, with official delegations representing national children's parliaments and childhood institutions from across the Arab world. A unique Arab platform for young voices This session is being held in an atmosphere of notable Arab engagement, as Sharjah — a hub of intellectual, cultural and developmental initiatives for the Arab child — hosts 56 young parliamentarians representing their countries in this pioneering parliamentary experience. The initiative has become a prominent Arab platform for the voice of the child and a means of reinforcing values of dialogue, citizenship and belonging — serving as a model in empowering the Arab youth to express their opinions on issues that concern them. Wide official presence from Arab states The session will be attended by representatives of the Women, Family and Childhood Department of the Arab League, alongside official delegations from participating countries, representatives from the Arab Parliament, experts and media professionals. The participation of this number of Arab countries reflects the prominent status of the Arab Parliament for the Child and the high level of trust placed in its role in shaping the awareness and developing the promising talents of Arab children. Debate on cultural identity of Arab children The young parliamentarians will discuss a highly important topic during this session: 'The cultural identity of the Arab child.' This theme is considered a key foundation for addressing contemporary challenges, preserving the civilisational and cultural heritage of the Arab nation, and enhancing the sense of belonging among emerging generations. Rich and engaging programme A comprehensive agenda has been prepared for the session, including specialised workshops, dialogue sessions, and a general session where the young parliamentarians will present their views and ideas on the subject of cultural identity. These presentations will be based on working papers prepared by the children themselves, along with analytical studies to be presented in educational, social and cultural contexts. Sharjah's pivotal role in child advocacy Hosting the session in Sharjah affirms the UAE's vital role in supporting childhood issues at the Arab level. It also crowns the civilisational vision of the Emirate of Sharjah, established by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, in making the emirate a lasting icon for the Arab child. This is achieved through cultural and intellectual projects such as the Arab Parliament for the Child, which stands as a fruitful collaboration between the Emirate of Sharjah and the Arab League. Statement from the Parliament Secretary-General His Excellency Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of APC, stated: 'We are proud to convene the second session of the fourth cycle of the Arab Parliament for the Child amid broad Arab participation, reflecting everyone's commitment to investing in children's capacities and enhancing their involvement in public affairs.' Cultural identity as foundation for the future He added: 'The topic of cultural identity, which our children will discuss, is one of the fundamental pillars in safeguarding the Arab personality against challenges. We firmly believe that empowering the Arab child with enlightened and free expression is the cornerstone of a prosperous and cohesive future.' Gratitude for continuous support Al Barout continued: 'This distinguished event would not have been possible without the generous support and continuous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who believes in the Arab child's potential for excellence and leadership. We also appreciate the close follow-up of the Secretary-General of the Arab League, His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and his commitment to ensuring the success of this ambitious initiative.' Outcomes to support Arab strategies He confirmed that the session is expected to yield important recommendations on the cultural identity of the Arab child, to be submitted to relevant Arab bodies and utilised in supporting national strategies in this area. Since the Arab Parliament for the Child established its permanent headquarters in Sharjah in 2019, it has served as a leading Arab platform that amplifies the voice of children and contributes to preparing them as future decision-makers and active participants in the sustainable development of their communities and nations.
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Arab Parliament for the Child to debate ‘Cultural Identity'
High-level support highlights importance This session holds exceptional significance as it is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the follow-up of His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League. This reflects the level of high-level support the Parliament initiative receives and underscores that the future of the Arab child is an integral part of a broader, comprehensive project. Identity as the foundation of awareness From this standpoint, several members of the Arab Parliament for the Child have expressed the importance of this topic and their readiness to discuss it under the dome of their parliament. They believe that cultural identity is not merely a topic to be debated, but the very essence upon which the Arab child's awareness is built. It serves as the gateway to their belonging to their homeland and a source of strength amid the challenges of globalisation and digital openness. Omani parliament head: Identity is rooted in values, not symbols Ilyas bin Awadh Al-Ma'ni, President of the Arab Parliament for the Child from the Sultanate of Oman, believes that true preparation for such a session lies in delving deep into the concept of cultural identity, researching its sources, and examining how it is influenced by the digital world and language challenges. He is convinced that identity is not just a set of symbols, but deep-rooted in language, values, and traditions. Ilyas is keen on reviewing successful Arab experiences in this field, consulting educators and intellectuals, and even speaking with children from his local community to understand how connected or distant they are from their language and identity. He points to the vital role that the family, school, and media play in embedding this identity. He adds that integrating heritage and the arts into curricula, and organising national activities and competitions, are effective ways to strengthen a child's pride in their identity. As he puts it, 'Preserving identity is not just an intellectual priority, but a civilisational safeguard for nations.' Jordanian member: Identity must be lived, not just studied Rabeea Ibrahim Abu Rumman, a member of the Arab Parliament for the Child from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, states that preparing for a topic like this is not limited to reading briefing papers. Instead, it requires genuine engagement with the lived reality of the Arab child amidst the challenges of social media and media openness. She explains that her planned intervention will focus on the voice of the Arab child, what belonging means to them, and what the family, school, and media can do to help them remain connected to their language and heritage. She emphasises the urgent need for purposeful and well-targeted Arabic media content for children and calls for cultural networking between Arab children through programmes and initiatives that promote the exchange of shared heritage and values. She concludes, 'Identity is not a luxury, but a safeguard that protects the child from dissolution, and a fundamental right of every child to know their origins, speak their language, and live their values.' Palestinian member: Identity must be protected from a young age Mai Jalal Abdulaziz, a member of the Arab Parliament for the Child from the State of Palestine, shared her perspective with a deep philosophical and human touch. She sees cultural identity not just as a topic for discussion, but as a vital project to protect Arab childhood from confusion and loss. She explains that a child is like 'soft clay' – shaped from an early age – and that the concepts and values instilled in them remain for life. If their identity is not safeguarded early on, they become fragile in the face of globalisation. Mai is preparing through in-depth research into the components of identity: language, heritage, historical symbols, customs, and traditions. She compares these foundational elements with the daily influences children face through screens. She says she is currently analysing children's behaviour on social media platforms, their use of the Arabic language, and whether their everyday cultural practices reflect authenticity or are dissolving into foreign influences. Proposals for action and digital awareness She also proposes practical steps, such as conducting simple field surveys to measure children's connection to their identity. Her planned parliamentary address will cover comprehensive themes, from language to digital media, passing through arts, diaspora, and artificial intelligence. Mai stresses: 'The Arab child today needs someone to listen to them, not to speak on their behalf… Identity is not taught—it is lived and experienced.' Mai affirms that the second session of the Arab Children's Parliament in Sharjah will undoubtedly be a moment of awareness and belonging—a pan-Arab platform that listens to the voices of future generations and, through them, draws the features of the Arab child's cultural identity in a changing world where values struggle to survive, and children search for their roots in an accelerating age. Iraqi member: Arabic is the anchor of collective memory Aws Mohsen Ali, a member of the Arab Parliament for the Child from the Republic of Iraq, adds that his focus on the Arabic language is not only driven by his belief that it is the carrier of identity, but also because it forms the core around which the collective memory of the Arab nations is built. Without it, thought is scattered, shared sensibility fades, and the Arab character loses its clarity in young generations. Therefore, he believes schools and educational curricula must form the first line of defence for the Arabic language. Curricula should be developed in a modern style that helps children love their language and leads them to explore its richness rather than be alienated by it. Pride in Arab civilisation through education Aws emphasises the importance of integrating the vocabulary of Arab civilisation into classroom instruction—not just as a historical narrative, but as a living legacy that must translate into daily behaviour and national pride. He believes that the Arab child needs to be told clearly: 'You belong to a great nation that has significantly contributed to humanity in fields like science, medicine, astronomy, language, and literature.' This message instils confidence and belonging—something fleeting social media content or widespread foreign media cannot provide. Identity as a right and a responsibility As a member of the Child Rights Committee, Aws believes that the right to cultural identity must be prioritised among the fundamental rights of the child. He notes that identity can be erased not only through wars or occupation but also through neglect, indifference, and blind imitation of cultures that don't resemble ours. This leads to values being consumed as commodities, and belonging reduced to mere slogans. He explains that the Arab Children's Parliament is a space where this awareness, vision, and responsibility are expressed. For him, preparing for the upcoming session is not merely about drafting a speech or writing a position paper—it is an emotional and intellectual commitment to the belief that Arab cultural identity is not just a topic for debate, but a matter of existence and dignity. A heartfelt message to the Arab world Aws concludes with a heartfelt plea: 'From this parliamentary platform, I raise my voice on behalf of millions of Arab children to say: We are not asking to be copies of others—we want to be ourselves… with our language, our culture, our history, and our emotions. We want to grow up in an open world, yes—but with our feet firmly planted in our land, our identity, and our authenticity.' With these sincere and profound words, Aws—and all the members of the Parliament—embody the new consciousness carried by the Arab child today. They enter the second session hall in Sharjah not merely as seekers of knowledge, but as builders of identity and guardians of the cultural essence in a world that has no place for those who do not know themselves.
Gulf Today
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Sharjah prepares for July session of APC
The Arab Parliament for the Child (APC) will convene its second session of the fourth cycle at its headquarters in Sharjah from July 22-27, under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the follow-up of Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States. The organisational committees of the Arab Parliament for the Child held a coordination meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of the APC, to prepare and examine all organisational, technical and administrative details to ensure the success of this event. Participants reviewed the operational progress and followed up on coordination efforts with supporting partners and collaborating entities within the Government of Sharjah. They also discussed the latest developments related to receiving delegations from Arab countries and parliamentary teams participating in the session, in coordination with the League of Arab States and its accredited permanent missions in Cairo. Al-Barout affirmed that under the wise directives of Sharjah's leadership, the Arab Parliament for the Child remains committed to organising the children's parliamentary session to the highest professional and institutional standards. He noted that Sharjah will host young Arab parliamentarians this July, who will gather at the Sharjah Consultative Council to voice their visions, concerns and issues from their communities through a parliamentary approach based on dialogue and conscious expression. Recently, the APC took part in the 17th National Conference on Children's Rights in Morocco. Al Barout delivered a speech during the opening session. He conveyed greetings from the Parliament's headquarters in Sharjah and praised Morocco's leadership, under King Mohammed VI, for its commitment to advancing child rights amidst modern social and technological shifts. Al Barout emphasised that today's children are more aware and engaged than ever, enabling them to be active partners in sustainable development rather than passive recipients. He called for meaningful inclusion of children in planning, implementation, and evaluation processes through genuine dialogue platforms that allow them to express their aspirations and challenges. WAM
Sharjah 24
11-06-2025
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah prepares for Arab Parliament of the Child in July
Sharjah hosts planning meeting with committee members The meeting took place yesterday morning at the Parliament's General Secretariat headquarters in Sharjah and brought together the heads and members of the executive, organisational, media, and logistics committees. Participants reviewed the operational progress and followed up on coordination efforts with supporting partners and collaborating entities within the Government of Sharjah. They also discussed the latest developments related to receiving delegations from Arab countries and parliamentary teams participating in the session, in coordination with the League of Arab States and its accredited permanent missions in Cairo. Sharjah's leadership guides preparations Al-Barout affirmed during the meeting that, under the wise directives of Sharjah's leadership, the Arab Parliament for the Child remains committed to organising the children's parliamentary session to the highest professional and institutional standards. He noted that Sharjah will host young Arab parliamentarians this July, who will gather at the Sharjah Consultative Council to voice their visions, concerns and issues from their communities through a parliamentary approach based on dialogue and conscious expression. Strategic planning to assess readiness Al-Barout pointed out that this meeting is part of a series of periodic encounters aimed at assessing the readiness across all areas and ensuring the integration of organisational efforts, especially as the session date approaches. This exceptional Arab platform contributes to raising awareness, developing leadership skills, and enhancing the presence of children as active representatives in their societies. He noted that the Parliament's General Secretariat continues to engage Arab countries, urging them to confirm the participation of their children's delegations, each composed of four young parliamentarians, in coordination with the relevant authorities in each country through their permanent missions to the League of Arab States. Workshops and cultural visits to enrich the experience The meeting also included discussions on the schedule of the session's programmes, an overview of the training workshops and side activities, as well as detailed planning for the cultural and educational visits to be offered to members of the Arab Parliament for the Child during their stay in Sharjah. These activities aim to reflect the emirate's cultural identity and enrich the participants' experience. Committees begin executing operational plan In conclusion, the Secretary-General confirmed that working teams have already begun implementing the operational plan and that specialised committees have started carrying out their tasks from the moment the children arrive in the UAE. He emphasised that this event reflects Sharjah's vision and cultural mission under the leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in nurturing and developing children's skills and talents, establishing a leading model in empowering Arab children, particularly in the parliamentary field, under the umbrella of the League of Arab States.
