Organizers:

• Qatar Foundation for Social Work (in consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council)
  In partnership with:
• The Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labor and the Council of Ministers of Social Affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States

Background and Rationale:

In an era of rapid digital transformation, technology has become an indispensable tool for supporting family and social cohesion, enhancing mental health, and facilitating access to social services. Today, technology presents a real opportunity to empower individuals and families to overcome geographical and social barriers, and to access counseling, support, and preventive interventions more effectively.

However, technology—especially artificial intelligence—can also pose a threat to mental health and family stability if misused. This underscores the urgent need for a responsible discussion on how to harness these tools in ways that ensure they serve as enablers, not risks.

This event explores how technology can evolve from a technical tool into a pillar of community cohesion and a mechanism for empowering various groups—from the elderly and youth to diverse families—in achieving mental well-being and contributing to sustainable development.

Objective:

To highlight the social and psychological dimensions of technology and to present local and regional practical models that use technology to support families, prevent family breakdown, promote mental health, and empower the elderly. The event also aims to stimulate knowledge exchange among Gulf and international social institutions and to generate actionable recommendations.

Speakers:

1. H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Hassan Al-Obaidli – Director General of the Executive Bureau
   Regional frameworks for supporting families through digital solutions and smart social policies.
2. Ms. Manal Al-Mannai – Executive Director of Ehsan Center
   The role of technology in empowering the elderly through digital education, access to services, and enhanced social inclusion.
3. Mr. Fadhel Al-Kaabi – Executive Director of Aman Center
   Technology as a tool for protecting individuals from domestic violence and promoting a safe digital environment for women and children.
4. Director of Wifaq Family Counseling Center
   Digital transformation in family counseling services: Challenges and opportunities.
5. Moderator: Ms. Shaima Ahmed A A Janahi- Director of Strategic Planning Department

Expected Outcomes:

• Presentation of practical models for using technology in family and mental health support
• Highlighting opportunities for cooperation between Gulf countries and international organizations in digital social innovation
• Developing recommendations to strengthen the use of technology in social work
• Showcasing the role of technology in prevention and psychosocial support for families and vulnerable groups
• Analyzing psychological and social risks resulting from the misuse of technology and AI, and proposing mitigation mechanisms

Format and Duration:

In-person session lasting 75 minutes

• 60 minutes: Moderated panel discussion with participation of speakers (15 minutes for each speaker)
• 15 minutes: Open dialogue with the audience and knowledge exchange