The Arab Parliament for the Child (APC) is set to hold its fourth meeting of the third session in mid-July, focusing on raising awareness about social responsibility.
The meeting will take place at the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) headquarters in Sharjah, UAE, with young parliament members from across the Arab world in attendance.
The choice of Sharjah as the meeting location reflects the emirate’s commitment to youth empowerment, guided by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
His Highness’s vision is to support and enable children and youth to actively contribute to the future of the Arab world. This initiative is also backed by the Arab League and its Secretary-General, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, emphasizing their dedication to preparing Arab children to discuss their issues and aspirations.
The meeting’s primary focus will be on the social responsibility of parliamentary members. This topic is particularly significant given the current challenges facing Arab societies. Under the League of Arab States’ umbrella, the APC aims to enhance the positive role children can play in their communities by promoting values of responsibility and active participation.
Members will share their personal experiences and projects that promote social responsibility in their respective countries. They will highlight initiatives in education, health, environment, and volunteerism. These discussions are expected to inspire and encourage other members to engage in meaningful community activities.
Additionally, the meeting will address how parliament members can raise awareness among their peers about the importance of social responsibility.
By participating in volunteer work and development projects, children can become active contributors to their communities. Members will exchange experiences from various Arab countries, showcasing a diversity of ideas and approaches.
Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of the APC, emphasized the significance of building a generation that understands and values social responsibility as a cornerstone for sustainable development. He stated that the APC’s efforts are aimed at fostering positive societal influence and active participation in public life.
Al Barout highlighted that the meeting would allow parliament members to share stories and practices related to social responsibility in their homelands. This exchange will deepen children’s understanding of the concept and motivate them to adopt responsible behaviors that contribute to societal growth.
The APC aims to cultivate a generation of young leaders equipped to tackle challenges and contribute to their countries’ futures. By instilling values of active citizenship and social responsibility, the APC envisions children as true partners in development.
At the meeting’s conclusion, the APC will issue recommendations to enhance children’s roles in social responsibility and increase their participation in public life. These recommendations will be submitted to relevant authorities in member states to encourage the adoption of supportive policies and programs.
