UAE’s Child Protection Framework earns global praise from UN expert

Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has received international recognition for its robust child protection laws and efforts to combat child exploitation, following a visit by United Nations Special Rapporteur Mama Fatima Singhateh.

Speaking at a press conference in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, Singhateh commended the UAE for its progressive legal framework, institutional commitment, and policy initiatives that collectively work to shield children from abuse, trafficking, and online exploitation.

During her official visit to the UAE, UN Special Rapporteur on the Sale and Sexual Exploitation of Children, Mama Fatima Singhateh, praised the country’s extensive efforts to uphold children’s rights. Highlighting significant legislative advances and institutional safeguards, she underscored the UAE’s alignment with international human rights standards in protecting minors from all forms of abuse and exploitation.

Reflecting on developments since a similar UN visit in 2009, Singhateh noted that the UAE had made tremendous strides in enhancing protections for children. Among the key milestones, she highlighted the 2016 ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which focuses on ending child prostitution, pornography, and trafficking.

Wadeema Law

One of the cornerstones of the UAE’s child protection laws is Federal Law No. 3 of 2016, widely known as the “Wadeema Law.” This legislation provides sweeping protections against neglect, abuse, and exploitation — both physical and psychological — and mandates the presence of child protection officers in institutions that work with children.

Singhateh also applauded Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes, which directly addresses the digital threats children face today. The law criminalises the use of technology for creating or distributing child sexual abuse material and underscores the state’s commitment to safeguarding minors online.

Human trafficking

In addition, she highlighted the importance of Federal Decree Law No. 24 of 2023, which criminalises human trafficking in all its forms, including those involving minors, and prescribes stringent penalties for offenders.

The UN envoy further recognised the UAE’s inclusive approach, especially its legal guarantees for non-Emirati children. She noted laws such as Federal Decree Law No. 10 of 2022, which mandates birth registration regardless of parentage, and Federal Decree Law No. 39 of 2022, which guarantees access to primary education for all children of residents.

She also commended the comprehensive institutional framework supporting child welfare, including the Ministry of Interior’s Child Protection Centre, the Child Protection Unit within the Ministry of Education, and several women and children’s support foundations across the emirates.

Innovative initiatives

The UAE’s innovative initiatives also drew praise. Singhateh spotlighted the Ministry of Interior’s collaboration with UNICRI on the “AI for Safer Children” initiative and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority’s “Dame Al Aman” program, both of which are designed to create safer, more nurturing environments for children.

Singhateh said that the UAE has set a commendable example for the region and beyond, blending strong legislation with institutional dedication to ensure every child’s right to safety and dignity is upheld.