Doha:A two-day forum dedicated to alternative care and the sustainable wellbeing of children without parental care has commenced in Doha. The event has gathered child protection experts and officials from Qatar and abroad at the Qatar National Convention Center. It is organized by Qatar's Dreama Orphan Care Center in collaboration with UNICEF and is held under the patronage of HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi.
According to Qatar News Agency, the forum aims to strengthen child protection and care systems, with a focus on children living without family support. Discussions are centered around international standards, evidence-based approaches, and regional experiences in alternative care.
Organizers emphasize the importance of prioritizing the best interests of the child in policies and practices, advocating for family environments that offer safe and supportive settings. The forum also explores efforts to maintain children within their biological families or reunite them when appropriate safeguards are in place. When family placement is not feasible, participants are considering how to provide alternative care that protects children's rights and supports their development.
Najla bint Ahmed Al-Thani, Executive Director of Dreama, affirmed the center's commitment to developing alternative-care systems and building partnerships with national, regional, and international organizations. She highlighted the significance of a stable family environment for children's security, rights, and development.
Lana Wreikat, UNICEF Gulf Area Office representative, noted Qatar's strong commitment to enhancing family roles, supporting vulnerable groups, and fostering social cohesion. She expressed UNICEF's dedication to collaborating with the Qatari government, Dreama, and other partners to improve access to quality family-based care.
The forum also addresses the role of social workers and alternative-care providers, family stability, preventive measures, and challenges in custody and guardianship disputes. Other sessions explore social inclusion, stigma, child development, community roles in child protection, and the impact of media and social media on public awareness of children's issues.
Participants will discuss funding for child-care systems and present recommendations at the conclusion of the forum. This event is part of Dreama's broader efforts to support orphans and children in similar situations, enhance their stability within foster families, and facilitate their integration into society.