Dubai Foundation for Women and Children organises ‘Regional Consultation of Child Helpline in MENA 2024’

The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) today announced the commencement of the ‘Regional Consultation of Child Helpline in MENA 2024’ in collaboration with Child Helpline International. The three-day event, taking place from 12 to 14 November at 25 Hours Hotel in Dubai, has convened over 50 representatives from the Child Helpline International Network in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, alongside numerous organisations working to combat child abuse, violence, and exploitation.

The meeting aims to address the increasing challenges children face amid ‘interconnected global crises’, including food insecurity, health concerns, climate change, and armed conflicts. These challenges have amplified threats to children, escalating incidents of violence and adversely affecting their mental health.

Themed ‘Every Child Has a Voice – Strengthening and Expanding Child Helpline Practices in MENA,’ the consultation will explore innovative strategies to safeguard children. Discussions will focus on three primary themes: the role of artificial intelligence in child protection, enhancing emergency case management systems, and sharing best practices in data collection and hotline management.
The programme features presentations by experts across scientific disciplines, with over 20 research papers addressing the implementation of digital strategies to improve child protection services. Additionally, the event will introduce the latest solutions to address the diverse challenges faced by children.

Highlighting the significance of the event, Her Excellency Shaikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director General of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, said: “The meeting represents a vital step in enhancing cooperation with regional and international stakeholders. It embodies the Foundation’s commitment to building a sustainable system that prioritises the protection and well-being of children, ensuring their voices are heard in the face of growing challenges.”

She added: “Through this meeting, we aim to strengthen child helpline practices across the region, foster innovation, and equip children with the support they need to overcome their difficulties. Our efforts reflect the UAE's commitment to promoting children's rights and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for their growth.”

DFWAC’s Commitment to Child Safety
As the UAE's first licensed shelter for women and children—victims of violence, abuse, and human trafficking—DFWAC continues to lead with impactful initiatives. Its Hotline (800111) provides 24/7 counselling and emergency assistance. Beyond immediate support, DFWAC offers psychosocial care, legal counselling, and guidance on consular and immigration procedures.

Moreover, DFWAC offers a range of innovative therapeutic programmes designed to support victims of violence and exploitation. Play Therapy creates a customised environment where child victims can safely express their emotions and begin to heal. Similarly, Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) provides a unique approach by integrating animals into treatment, offering support to both children and adults. These initiatives reflect DFWAC’s commitment to providing diverse therapeutic pathways that help individuals effectively cope with trauma and rebuild their lives in a safe, nurturing environment.

Her Excellency Al Mansouri added: “Our programmes reflect the UAE’s leading role in advancing children’s rights on both national and international fronts. By collaborating with global partners like UNICEF and contributing to international conventions on child protection, we strive to ensure the future safety and well-being of children everywhere.”

“We are confident this event will generate actionable insights and innovative initiatives to improve child protection services. By uniting our efforts, we aim to create a future where every child can grow up in a safe, supportive environment that nurtures their potential. The well-being of children is at the heart of the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future,” Al Mansouri said.

Representatives from across the MENA region and beyond have gathered to exchange knowledge and share national experiences. This diverse assembly will foster meaningful dialogue on shared challenges and explore effective policies to enhance child protection systems across the region.

The ‘Regional Consultation of Child Helpline in MENA 2024’ is a platform for collaboration, enabling stakeholders to devise innovative solutions to protect children from the increasing risks they face. The meeting underscores the UAE’s pivotal role in promoting global cooperation for children's rights and marks a significant step forward in addressing regional and international challenges.