UAE's Commitment To UN Humanitarian Assistance And Women's Empowerment Highlighted At Global Forum

The UAE remains a leader in global humanitarian efforts, partnering with the United Nations (UN) to promote gender equality and empower women worldwide, including in conflict areas. During the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024, a session titled "Glimpses of UAE-UN Humanitarian Partnership" highlighted the UAE's cultural commitment to humanitarian aid, which significantly impacts communities both regionally and globally.

Speakers at the event included Dr. Sara Chehab from the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, Berangere Boell from the UN, Sajeda Shawa from OCHA UAE, and Maha Gorton from Expo City Dubai. They discussed how humanitarian assistance is deeply embedded in Emirati culture and continues to have a profound economic and social impact.

Sajeda Shawa expressed pride in OCHA's involvement in the forum, emphasising successful partnerships between the UN and UAE. She noted that these collaborations focus on diplomatic engagements and government cooperation. "The UAE’s humanitarian commitment is not new; it is deeply rooted in the values and culture of the nation," she stated.

Dr. Sara Chehab pointed out that much of the UAE’s aid supports women's empowerment globally, mirroring its domestic achievements. With one-third of cabinet members being women and nearly half in diplomatic roles, the UAE exemplifies women's crucial societal roles.

Berangere Boell praised the ongoing UN-UAE partnership based on humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence. She acknowledged the UAE's substantial contributions to humanitarian programmes. In 2023, its contribution to OECD's Development Assistance Committee rose to 27%, up from $10 billion in 2022.

This year alone, the UAE provided $130 million for Lebanon and $100 million for Sudan amid conflicts. Additionally, it supported food aid airdrops in Gaza. Such efforts underscore its commitment to aiding regions in crisis.

Empowering Women Through Inclusion

The session underscored that partnerships are integral to the UAE's humanitarian approach. Speakers stressed collective efforts for sustainability, gender equality, and inclusion. They advocated for women's involvement in peace negotiations as crucial for achieving successful outcomes.

The enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak continues to inspire impactful humanitarian actions by promoting compassion and generosity both locally and globally.

With inputs from WAM