On Arab Family Day, observed annually on 7 December, the Family and Childhood Department of the League of Arab States, in collaboration with the Technical Secretariat of the Arab Family Committee, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to pursuing its goals aimed at advancing family issues in the Arab region. The League underscores the pivotal role of the family in building and fostering societal cohesion, expressing its rejection of any attempts to alter the traditional structure of the family, which consists of a man and a woman. This stance is firmly grounded in the Arab Charter for Human Rights and aligns with the resolution of the Arab Summit during its 31st session, focusing on "promoting cultural diversity and protecting and preserving the institution of the family and marriage."
These efforts are contextualised within the broader framework of the League of Arab States and its member states' dedication to safeguarding the family in the face of challenges posed by globalisation and emerging intellectual currents that challenge the traditional concept of the Arab family. Emphasising the importance of preserving existing family values and traditions, the League highlights the family's crucial role as a platform for shaping individuals and guiding them towards principles of justice and respect.
To address contemporary challenges, the League of Arab States is actively engaged in preparing an analytical study meant to assess the impact of modern challenges on the roles of the authentic Arab family, analysing various factors that contribute to preserving its authenticity and monitoring the variables that may affect its fundamental constants. Through these initiatives, the League of Arab States demonstrates its commitment to nurturing and preserving the essential fabric of Arab families amidst the evolving landscape of societal dynamics.
On this day, we draw attention to the profound challenges faced by the Palestinian family, grappling with immense hardships due to the brutal Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip. The human suffering resulting from this aggression significantly impacts the entire entity, with women and children comprising 64 per cent of the victims in Gaza. We vehemently demand an immediate cessation of this brutal aggression, urging the international community to take urgent measures to halt its continuation. Additionally, we call for the guarantee of all rights afforded under international conventions and humanitarian law.
In this critical situation, we implore the League of Arab States to extend comprehensive protection to the Palestinian family. We emphasise the need for humanitarian support, health services, and psychological care for children, women, and youth who are enduring the repercussions of this unprecedented aggression—deemed not only a war crime but also an act of ethnic cleansing. It is crucial that the international community stands united in addressing these issues and works collaboratively to bring an end to the suffering inflicted upon the Palestinians.
