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Every year, on March 15th, the UAE celebrates “Emirati Children’s Day,” which coincides with the introduction of the federal children’s law “Wadeema”. This legislation underscores the critical importance of safeguarding children's rights to nurture a highly skilled generation that is aware of their rights and responsibilities.
The UAE demonstrates a steadfast dedication to children's rights, guided by the belief that children are the future's leaders. This dedication is reflected in its legislation, notably through Wadeema’s Law, enacted in 2016 to protect the rights of all children under 18.
This law is designed to safeguard children from all forms of neglect, exploitation, and abuse, including both physical and psychological violence. It enforces strict penalties for violations, ensuring that children receive necessary care, financial support, healthcare, and education. The law also underscores the importance of involving children in age-appropriate cultural and societal activities.
Establishing specialised child protection units is a key aspect of Wadeema’s law. Staffed by qualified experts with judicial authority, these units are empowered to intervene both preventively and therapeutically when a child’s health or safety is at risk. Their operations are conducted in coordination with relevant authorities and strict adherence to existing laws and regulations, ensuring robust protection for children in all circumstances.
Wadeema’s Law mandates the reporting of any threats to children to child protection specialists, making it compulsory for everyone, especially educators, doctors, social workers, and caregivers. Additionally, it requires that all adults help children report their suffering or that of others.
The UAE safeguards children’s educational rights through comprehensive policies and legislation. It provides free, compulsory education from primary through secondary school, ensuring equal access for all students. Wadeema's Law enhances these protections by preventing school dropouts, fostering active involvement of children and parents in decision-making, banning all forms of violence in schools, and upholding the child's dignity in all decisions and programme developments.
The UAE's educational system now emphasises a thorough focus on child development from kindergarten. To uphold children's educational rights, specific and organised programmes for reporting and addressing complaints have been established. Furthermore, laws prohibit custodians from unjustifiably excluding children from school during the compulsory education period.
The UAE is dedicated to enhancing education by refining curricula, creating a secure and modern learning environment, and training educators to uphold high standards. The education of children with disabilities receives particular focus through specialised programmes and additional support, promoting their complete integration into the educational system.
Protecting children's healthcare rights is a central focus of UAE national policies. The country is committed to providing all children with high-quality, comprehensive healthcare, encompassing prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
UAE strategies include offering medical services that adhere to global standards, comprehensive insurance coverage, and exceptional medical services. The UAE also initiates efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, increase health awareness among families and communities, and promote healthy, balanced diets for children. National programmes are also in place to vaccinate all children residing in the country, aiming to prevent and control the spread of communicable diseases.
Through its ongoing commitment to protecting children’s rights, the UAE offers specialised protection services that meet the highest global standards. Competent authorities work diligently to shield children from all forms of danger. The country also focuses on developing effective protection programmes to enhance the family environment for at-risk children. These programmes promote sound parenting practices and instil child protection principles within communities.
To ensure children's safety and prevent harm or exploitation, strict penalties—including fines, imprisonment, or both—are imposed on those who jeopardise a child's well-being or fail to provide the necessary protection.
The UAE is a global leader in child rights protection, having ratified numerous international agreements. The country has made substantial investments in supporting children in developing nations through the construction of hospitals and schools, provision of medical and educational services, and supply of essential medication. Moreover, it prioritises collaboration with United Nations and humanitarian organisations to advance children's rights.
By organising training programmes, international seminars, and participating in global forums, the UAE raises awareness, shares expertise, and promotes child rights worldwide.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, emphasises that children are the most precious asset and true wealth of the nation. He views them as an inexhaustible source of giving, bringing joy in the present and holding hope for future progress and development.
Under his leadership, the Emirate of Sharjah excels in safeguarding child rights and empowering children as active members of society. The emirate is dedicated to enforcing comprehensive laws that guarantee children’s protection in education, healthcare, and social care. Sharjah has also launched numerous initiatives to cultivate children’s creativity, arts, literature, and language skills, promoting their overall intellectual and emotional growth.
The Emirate of Sharjah hosts the headquarters of the Arab Parliament for the Child (APC), established under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This initiative promotes democratic values and active participation among Arab children, empowering them to make decisions and voice their interests. It underscores the emirate’s profound dedication to child rights and their pivotal roles in societal development.
In recognition of His Highness’s exceptional leadership, Sharjah was named the world's first 'Baby-Friendly City' in 2015. The emirate offers extensive health and service facilities tailored to children's needs, including breastfeeding-friendly nurseries, advanced educational institutions, and cultural and recreational centres that support holistic development.
On the global stage, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has spearheaded several significant initiatives in education, health, and knowledge for children. His support extends to refugee children and their families, providing critical relief and improving their quality of life and future prospects.
References
[1] pchr.gov.ae, حقوق الطفل في دولة الإمارات
[2] u.ae, حقوق الطفل
[3] sharjahchildfriendlyoffice.ae, عن مكتب الشارقة صديقة للطفل
[4] rqsharjah.ae, مؤسسة "ربع قرن" لصناعة القادة والمبتكرين
[5] sharjahnews.gov.ae, "اجتماعية الشارقة" تعزز الرعاية والحماية والتأهيل للأطفال
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