The 15th Doha Conference on Interfaith Dialogue recently highlighted the crucial role of the family unit in society and the importance of preserving its structure amidst contemporary challenges. The conference emphasized the need for religious teachings and values to guide family life, promoting virtuous values and ethics to enhance family cohesion. Education was also recognized as a key factor in shaping future generations and ensuring a healthy upbringing. The conference called for increased involvement of families in preventing morally incorrect behaviors among children and restructuring parental roles to create a harmonious environment.
Furthermore, the conference emphasized the importance of official support for social family services, particularly for vulnerable families, to equip them with the necessary knowledge to navigate challenges they may face. It also stressed the significance of civil and voluntary initiatives aimed at protecting and strengthening family structures, integrating family dialogues into educational programs, and conducting specialized research to develop a culture of dialogue among families. Educational institutions, particularly universities, were highlighted as key players in fortifying families against ideologies that threaten societal stability.
In addition, the closing statement called on official media institutions to enhance their role in raising awareness about the importance of preserving family systems and bonds, cautioning against destructive ideas that threaten family unity. The statement also emphasized the impact of wars and conflicts on families, especially vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, calling for international action to address human rights violations and provide humanitarian aid. The conference further discussed the challenges faced by minority families, including issues related to identity, integration, and coexistence with diverse cultures.
Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Naimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue (DICID), announced the upcoming international conference to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the International Year of the Family, which will be hosted by Qatar. The conference, scheduled to take place from October 29-31 of the following year, aims to address crucial family-related issues and promote dialogue among diverse communities. Overall, the conference highlighted the significance of preserving family structures, strengthening family bonds, and fostering a culture of dialogue and cohesion within families for the greater stability of communities and nations.
