On January 15, Dr. Ahmed Aref, Director of Family Research and Policy, and Dr. Sharifa Al-Emadi, Executive Director of Doha International Family Institute, participated in the 15th Global Family Policy Forum: “Protecting Women and Children by Strengthening the Family,” held in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, and hosted by Family Watch International.

During the forum, Dr. Sharifa was honored with the Stand for the Family Award in recognition of her impactful contributions to family-centered policies, evidence-based advocacy, and sustained engagement in international policy spaces. The award was presented during a high-level international gathering attended by ministers, diplomats representing the Group of Friends of the Family at the United Nations in Geneva and New York, as well as experts from think tanks, policy institutes, and civil society organizations working on family issues worldwide.

Following the award ceremony, Dr. Sharifa delivered the forum’s opening keynote address as the Guest of Honor, highlighting the importance of evidence-based advocacy and international cooperation in advancing family-centered policies. Dr. Ahmed also delivered a speech during the forum, contributing to the discussions on strengthening families as a foundation for protecting women and children.

Dr. Sharifa further highlighted the Institute’s international role as an organization with consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), sharing examples of regional collaboration across the Arab and Islamic worlds to strengthen family cohesion and well-being.  

Speakers

• Dr. Sharifa Al-Emadi, Executive Director of Doha International Family Institute
• Dr. Ahmed Aref, Director of Family Research and Policy