Sharjah's Third Child Safety Forum 2025: A Commitment to Protecting Young Minds

Post by : Mara Rahim

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the 2025 edition of the Child Safety Forum was launched in Sharjah, themed “Protect Their Innocence.” The event took place at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre.

This Forum convened experts from family and childhood organizations alongside international specialists in psychology, education, and digital safety. Attendees included representatives from social services and educational bodies, parents, and children’s rights advocates, showcasing Sharjah’s deep-seated dedication to child safety and robust social support systems.

Designed to foster discussions surrounding child protection, the Forum seeks to address anticipated challenges stemming from rapid societal and digital transformations. It provides a platform for crafting strategies and policies to enhance children’s safety and emotional health.

H.H. Sheikha Jawaher articulated that safeguarding children is both a moral obligation and a profound responsibility. She encouraged parents to engage meaningfully with their children, providing guidance and security. Her Highness highlighted that spending time with children builds self-esteem and prepares them to navigate the world with confidence.

“Prevention originates at home,” she remarked, underscoring the value of being present for one’s children. “Every moment shared is an investment in their future and security.”

Sharjah's recognition as a Baby and Family-Friendly Emirate signifies its longstanding commitment to social progress, emphasizing a family-centric approach and prioritizing child welfare.

Hanadi Al Yafei, Director General of Child Safety, stressed that today’s youth confront unique challenges, particularly from the pervasive digital realm. She noted that safeguarding children extends beyond external threats to include comprehending and regulating their digital encounters. Modern parenting requires active participation in deciphering children’s emotions and needs.

With guidance from H.H. Sheikha Jawaher, the Child Safety initiative has evolved into a benchmark model for child protection, fostering awareness and safety initiatives throughout Sharjah and beyond.

The Forum hosted several sessions on critical themes. The initial discussion, “The World is Seeping into Our Homes… Who is Educating Our Children?”, featured experts like Dr. Mohammed Al Kaabi and Dr. Hind Al Badwawi, focusing on child rights, emotional stability, and digital responsibility.

The second session, “Fear of Society: When Silence Becomes the Enemy,”, examined the significance of creating safe spaces for children to communicate freely, while addressing societal stigmas surrounding behavioral issues.

The third session, “Fathers Who Make a Difference Across Generations,”, honed in on the essential role fathers play in emotional guidance, communication, and bridging the digital divide for a deeper understanding of their children.

The Forum illustrates Sharjah’s proactive stance in child protection, emphasizing collaborative efforts between families and community organizations to ensure children’s innocence is preserved, fostering a secure environment conducive to their growth.