Aden, Yemen – During its fourth session of the third regular session of the 18th legislative term, the Federal National Council adopted several recommendations related to the topic of “Protecting the Family, its Concept and Entity.”
The session was chaired by His Excellency Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Council.
It was also attended by Her Excellency Sanaa bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family Affairs, in the Zayed Hall at the Council’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
At the outset of the session, His Excellency Saqr Ghobash affirmed that the declaration
by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE,
may God protect him, of 2026 as the “Year of the Family” represents
a clear national message placing the family at the forefront of attention.
He also emphasized that the family is the cornerstone of social cohesion
and the primary incubator of national values and identity.
Strategic partner and effective legislation
He stressed that the Federal National Council is a strategic partner of the government
in supporting this vision and translating it into effective policies and legislation.
During the session, the council discussed a range of topics related to the challenges facing family formation,
threats to family security, and the impact of social, cultural, and economic transformations.
It also addressed ways to strengthen family stability amidst rapid changes.
Following extensive deliberations, the council adopted several important recommendations.
The council decided to refer them to the Committee on Social Affairs, Labor, Population,
and Human Resources for revision based on members’ input and observations.
Results of studies and research
The discussions were based on a comprehensive report prepared by the Social Affairs Committee.
This report included the findings of studies and research papers.
It also included interviews with experts and specialists, and data from several government entities.
These entities included the Ministry of Family Affairs, the Ministry of Community Empowerment, the Ministry of Justice, the Federal Authority
for Government Human Resources, the Identity and Citizenship Authority, and Customs and Ports Security.
In a related matter, the Council approved referring a draft federal law on combating
communicable diseases to the Health and Environment Committee for review.
The session also included parliamentary questions regarding public housing
that has exceeded its lifespan and the social support provided to people with disabilities.
