In July 2026, the city of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates will host the fourth and final session of the Arab Parliament for Children. This gathering is set to bring together a diverse group of members from across the Arab world, emphasizing collaborative efforts under the auspices of the Arab League, with unwavering support from its Secretary-General. The forthcoming session signifies a commitment to fostering a sense of shared responsibility for children’s rights and voices throughout the region.
Sharjah is preparing to welcome participants for this significant event, scheduled for mid-July. The session marks the culmination of the fourth parliamentary term for the Arab Parliament for Children. Under the gracious patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, a senior member of the UAE’s Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the initiative highlights his dedication to nurturing Arab childhood. His support empowers the younger generation to engage in meaningful dialogue and express their aspirations responsibly, all within the framework established for the Arab children’s parliament in Sharjah. This venue has been transformed into a beacon for developing future leaders capable of constructive dialogue and growth.
A Rich Journey in Parliamentary Activities
The upcoming session is a testament to a dedicated journey of organized parliamentary work that has characterized the fourth term since its launch. The parliamentary activities began in February 2025, showcasing a significant evolution in partnerships aimed at addressing children’s needs across the Arab world. During the initial session, members elected a president and two vice-presidents while forming permanent parliamentary committees. These committees immediately began studying various issues pertinent to children in the region.
Fostering Cultural Identity and Digital Security
Following the first session, the second, held in July 2025, focused on the crucial theme of cultural identity for Arab children. It facilitated discussions on how to preserve Arab values and heritage in the face of contemporary changes. This dialogue serves as a robust platform for members to reflect on the significance of cultural continuity amidst evolving challenges.
The third session, conducted in February 2026, shifted attention to digital age challenges, exploring cybersecurity and its implications for Arab children’s content. The discussions underscored the importance of creating a safe and enriching digital environment for young users, which aligns with technological advances while safeguarding their mental and intellectual well-being.
Commitment to Collaborative Efforts
As preparations for the fourth session progress, Ayman Othman Al-Barout, the Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for Children, has confirmed that the arrangements are well underway. Coordinating closely with all partners, they aim to ensure that this session in Sharjah will serve as a fitting closure to the fourth parliamentary term. Launched in 2019, this initiative has showcased the exceptional awareness and capability of Arab children to responsibly address and discuss their concerns.
Al-Barout emphasized the commitment of the Parliament’s General Secretariat to create a supportive environment that translates the members’ aspirations into actionable recommendations. This approach aligns with the Arab League’s vision, prioritizing child care and human development. He praised the ongoing collaboration with Arab nations and relevant agencies dedicated to childhood, which contributes directly to the success of parliamentary initiatives and bolsters sustainable community and institutional partnerships aimed at protecting and enhancing the lives of Arab children.