DUBAI, 14th March, 2023 (WAM) – H. H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the UAE's exceptional achievements in child protection and support on a global scale. She attributed this success to the comprehensive range of services and legislation aimed at cultivating a responsible generation capable of leading the nation's development in all sectors.
Sheikha Hind stated that the UAE's accomplishments in childcare and protection are a direct result of the unwavering commitment of the UAE leadership, headed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with the Members of the Federal Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates. They have invested in human capital and provided all necessary resources to foster a selfless generation capable of leading the journey of development and prosperity.
Sheikha Hind made these comments on the occasion of Emirati Children's Day on March 15, which serves as a national platform to raise awareness about children's rights and showcase the UAE's achievements in this field. The day also underscores the nation's commitment to adhering to international laws and regulations related to child protection.
She also praised the contributions of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation. Sheikha Hind noted that Mother of the Nation H.H. Sheikha Fatima's efforts have been instrumental in supporting motherhood and childhood in the country, as well as launching various programmes that provide an ideal environment for children to ensure their optimal growth and development.
Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum highlighted the significant progress made by the UAE in childcare and protection, moving from ensuring basic child rights to fostering future generations and discovering and supporting hidden talents. She noted that the UAE has created a supportive environment for children, with legislation in place to protect their rights, and that the UAE's experience in this area is a source of inspiration.
According to her, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood continually collaborates with ministries and federal authorities to launch programmes and initiatives that raise awareness about children's rights, with the goal of preparing a future generation capable of serving their nation with distinction. She further noted that The National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood serves as the primary reference for decision-makers in the childhood sector in the UAE. The strategy aims to promote the rights of children and mothers in a comprehensive and sustainable environment, by enhancing child protection through an integrated and comprehensive system. The strategy also aims to promote children's right to high-quality education, which develops their personalities and mental and physical capabilities.
Sheikha Hind emphasised that this year's Emirati Children's Day celebrations are being held under the theme "The Child's Rights in a Safe and Sustainable Environment," aligning with the UAE's Year of Sustainability. She noted that the country's objectives include contributing effectively to global efforts in combating climate change and that as the UAE is hosting COP 28, its outcomes are expected to have a direct impact on human health and the future of children, in particular.