Calls for joined-up effort

Lieutenant General Bin Amer said protecting the family and reinforcing its stability is a shared responsibility that requires security, legal, social, psychological and technical efforts to work as one. He pointed to the importance of building preventive awareness and keeping pace with change in ways that help protect children and reduce the risks threatening the security of the family and the wider community.

Panel tackles children's exposure online

The forum featured a panel discussion. Chief Prosecutor Dr Salah Mohammed Al Hammadi outlined the legislation governing children's use of social media platforms. Eng. Abdelnasir Obaid Bukhatir, Director of the Sharjah Cyber Security Center, discussed ways to protect children digitally and strengthen cybersecurity. Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Khalifa Al Mheiri (rank and name unverified), Head of the Crime Reduction Section, addressed Sharjah Police's preventive and field efforts to bolster community security. Dr Sheikha Abdullah Al Zaabi (unverified) examined how legislation affects the family and society and shapes family relationships. Dr Moaz Abdulrahman Al Zarouni (unverified), a psychiatric consultant, closed the discussion by looking at the psychological impact of children's social media use on both the child and the family.

Awareness, oversight and partnership

The session concluded that raising family awareness of the risks and crimes tied to the digital space is essential, alongside stronger, more conscious oversight of children's use of social media platforms and clarity around the legal responsibilities of families and digital platforms alike. Panellists also stressed the need to deploy technical solutions and cybersecurity tools to reduce children's exposure to harmful content and online exploitation and to deepen partnerships between security, legal, social and health bodies. They underlined the value of open family dialogue, psychological support and close attention to behavioural changes in children — all of which help build a cohesive, secure family environment and strengthen the security and stability of the community.

Closing recognition

At the close of the forum, Lieutenant General bin Amer honoured the participants and contributors to its success, in recognition of their role in enriching its discussions and reinforcing the joined-up effort to support family security and community stability.