Latest news with #DepartmentofCommunityDevelopmentinAbuDhabi
Sharjah 24
6 days ago
- Health
- Sharjah 24
UAE drives inclusion of People of Determination at COSP18
Commitment to empowering People of Determination During the UAE's national statement at the General Debate, Minister Sana bint Mohammed Suhail affirmed the UAE's dedication to empowering People of Determination. She highlighted their unique abilities and their right to equal opportunities to contribute to national development. She stated, "In the United Arab Emirates, we believe that people with disabilities, or as we call them 'People of Determination', are partners in building the nation..." Six pillars of inclusion supporting People of Determination The Minister outlined the UAE's progress through six key pillars: healthcare, education, employment, social protection, accessibility, and community participation. These pillars are underpinned by a strong legislative framework, including Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, as well as local initiatives such as Abu Dhabi's inclusive urban development and Dubai's Disability Strategy. Notable achievements in education and rehabilitation The UAE highlighted achievements such as the introduction of inclusive learning environments, early intervention programmes, vocational training, and the establishment of over 35 government-run and more than 46 private centres dedicated to rehabilitation and training. Advancements in employment and accessibility The statement emphasised efforts to create inclusive workplaces in both public and private sectors. Infrastructure improvements have made public transport and facilities more accessible, and innovative technologies are being integrated to enhance service accessibility for People of Determination. Comprehensive healthcare and independence support Within healthcare, the UAE offers a wide range of services from treatment and rehabilitation to psychological support. Programs promoting independence, including life skills training and supported living options, are key components of their approach. International leadership and hosting global events The UAE showcased its role on the global stage by hosting major events like the 2024 International Rehabilitation Conference and the 2019 Special Olympics. The establishment of the Asian Paralympic Committee's headquarters in the UAE in 2019 further emphasises the country's regional and international advocacy efforts. UAE delegation reflects national and multi-sector commitment The delegation included representatives from the Ministry of Family, the Executive Council of Dubai, the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Sedra Foundation, collaborating closely with the UAE's Permanent Mission to the UN. Hosting 'The Gathering' – A platform for global dialogue On the sidelines of COSP18, the UAE hosted 'The Gathering,' a cultural and diplomatic event that facilitated dialogue among global stakeholders to exchange ideas on empowering People of Determination. UAE's role as a global leader in inclusion The UAE's participation at COSP18 highlights its leadership in shaping inclusive policies and systems. The diverse delegation exemplified a comprehensive national approach uniting government, third-sector institutions, and the private sector to support People of Determination within an integrated and sustainable framework. Looking ahead: dedicated session on community inclusion The UAE will continue driving progress with its upcoming session titled "Amplifying Our Voices: A Collective Ambition Towards Re-Imagining Community Inclusion for All," focusing on innovative strategies and fostering greater collaboration among global stakeholders.
Al Etihad
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Department of Community Development launches Child Protection Policy in the Sports Entities
12 June 2025 13:13 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi has introduced the Child Protection Policy in the Sports Entities with the aim of creating a safe and inclusive environment where children can thrive and enjoy sports free from in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), the Family Care Authority (FCA), and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), the policy aligns with Federal Law No (3) of 2016, known as Wadeema, and its executive regulations. The policy applies to all sports entities in Abu Dhabi, as well as to all workers and volunteers involved in sports activities outside educational institutions. To support the policy's implementation, the department will roll out a comprehensive awareness on the new policy, Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD, said: 'The Child Protection Policy in the Sports Entities reflects the department's commitment to promoting the welfare of children and ensuring their safety in all areas." He added, "It is an important step that promotes the healthy growth and development of children, in line with the vision of our leadership, which is keen to protect children and ensure their rights and safety. The policy focuses on enhancing awareness and community participation in protecting children by empowering sports entities, parents and workers in the sports sector to effectively assume their Balooshi explained that 'The policy includes a comprehensive set of principles and mechanisms that ensure the application of the highest standards of protection, including the appointment of child protection coordinators in sports entities, and the provision of mandatory training programmes for workers and volunteers to ensure their readiness to deal with any potential dangers, in addition to imposing strict procedures for reporting and following up on violations, which enhances the culture of transparency and accountability.'Four Main Safety PrinciplesThe policy is based on four main principles that ensure parents and their children feel safe by promoting the right to participate, zero tolerance for child abuse, as well as responsibility, accountability, protection, and policy aims to establish mechanisms, standards, and procedures to safeguard children in all sports entities and facilities. It also seeks to protect children participating in sports activities from any behaviour, conduct, or actions that violate their rights, harm their interests, or cause them physical or emotional harm. Additionally, the policy provides support for children in sports activities who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or policy mandates that all employees in sports entities and facilities who interact directly with children must report any suspected or alleged cases of child abuse, neglect, or violence within the sports sector. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of sports entities, professional athletes, volunteers, parents, and caregivers in addressing such cases. This approach aims to promote the well-being and safety of children in sports, foster positive behaviour, build healthy social relationships, uphold standards of sportsmanship, and create a safe and constructive environment for sports policy includes the development of legal frameworks to prevent anyone who poses a threat to children from participating in sports activities, in addition to preventing them from joining any sports entity, work or other environment that allows them to deal with children. It also focuses on coordination with the competent authorities and concerned parties to ensure the protection of the rights of all children participating in sports Child Protection Policy in the Sports Entities prohibits all forms of child abuse, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, neglect, exploitation, bullying in any form, and any type of discrimination based on race, age, gender, nationality, religion, or developmental delays. The policy was developed through the collaborative efforts of DCD, ADSC, FCA and ECA, along with various relevant partners in the health, society, sports and education sectors, including the UAE Pro League, Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the Ministry of Education, in addition to the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and the Emirates Schools Establishment.
