Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Social Development and Family, recently participated in the International Family Forum held in Istanbul, Turkiye.

Organised by the Turkish Ministry of Family and Social Services, the forum convened under the theme Our Family Our Future. The assistant undersecretary for family affairs, Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim al-Thani, led Qatar's delegation to the forum.

The forum focused on strengthening and protecting the institutions of family and marriage, as well as fostering the well-being of future generations and robust demographic structures.

The event aimed to enhance understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing families and communities, and to establish a common platform for discussions on how to better protect, empower, and support families in their vital roles.

The ministry also took part in a ministerial session on "Integrating Family-Oriented Policies: National and International Efforts".

During the session, the ministry emphasised Qatar's strong commitment to supporting and empowering families, noting that contemporary challenges require comprehensive policies rooted in scientific research.

This is particularly crucial given demographic shifts, domestic violence, and social changes brought about by technology and work.

Additionally, the ministry participated in the third dialogue session on "The Family in the Era of Digital Screens".

This session highlighted the challenges posed by digital technologies and social media on families, including their impact on family cohesion, upbringing, and mental health, stressing the importance of balanced technology use and the activation of awareness programmes to reinforce family values.

On the sidelines of the forum, Sheikha Sheikha held a meeting with Palestinian Minister of Social Development Dr Samah Abu al-Awn.

Their discussion centered on avenues of co-operation between the two ministries and methods of providing support to affected Palestinian families.

Sheikha Sheikha also held a meeting with Nigeria's Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim.

They reviewed the mandates of the women's affairs ministry and explored collaborative opportunities and support mechanisms between the two ministries.

Separately, Sheikha Sheikha held a meeting with Turkiye’s Deputy Minister of Family and Social Services Leman Yenigun.

The discussion focused on bilateral co-operation and the exchange of child protection and technology expertise.