Abu Dhabi announces new Child Protection Policy

Abu Dhabi has approved a new Child Protection Policy to address and ensure the safety and protection of children in the emirate.

The new policy forms a vital part of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority’s Dama Al Aman programme,

Aligned with the principles of the UAE Child Rights Law (also called the Wadeema Law), the policy aims to empower children to exercise their right to protection. It will also set up an evidence-based system that promotes the early detection of issues and rapid intervention for children and families.

The policy will strengthen partnerships related to child protection through stakeholder coordination, ensuring the implementation of child protection mechanisms and measures within relevant entities, and requiring all entities that work with children to implement the policy, reported Abu Dhabi Media Office.

Developed through partnerships  across various sectors, including social, education, health, law enforcement, and the judiciary, and endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the policy covers detailed guidelines and measures to protect children. It also stresses the responsibility of professionals and the community in responding accordingly.

Principles and themes guiding the Child Protection Policy

The Child Protection Policy is built on three guiding principles: the best interests of the child, equality and non-discrimination, and respecting the child’s right to privacy and confidentiality of information.

According to Abu Dhabi Media Office, the policy focuses on six key themes: launching effective preventive programmes to raise awareness about child protection issues with the aim of promoting social behavioural change; creating unified and well-known reporting channels trusted by citizens and residents in the emirate; enhancing early detection capabilities and delivering comprehensive, well-coordinated, and high-quality care services; implementing a case management model that relies on effective coordination among relevant entities across various sectors; developing child protection policies and relevant research; and ensuring continued professional development and training to upskill and develop capabilities.

The Child Protection Policy emphasises the involvement of the government, private sector, non-profit organisations, and the community in protecting children.

It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders, ensuring a coordinated response to child protection concerns.

Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, chairman of the Department of Community Development, said: “The Child Protection Policy further supports national efforts to create an environment that protects children and enhances their quality of life. We are committed to building a social safeguarding ecosystem that include legislation and laws to protect their rights.

“The Department of Community Development launched the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy this year, which aims to further enhance the quality of family life, with programmes and initiatives that support children’s development, in cooperation with partners.”

Sana Mohamed Suhail, director general of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, said: “The child protection policy was developed in close collaboration with various entities involved in the prevention, detection, and reporting of issues of abuse, and ensures confidentiality for anyone reporting suspicions or incidents through effective, safe and reliable reporting mechanisms, offering assurance that the welfare of children remains the paramount concern.

“The policy promotes social cohesion and family stability, and provides support to parents and caregivers in creating a positive, secure and nurturing environment.”