UAE President Establishes International Humanitarian Council via Federal Decree

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a Federal Decree, formally instituting the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council. This significant initiative is aimed at enhancing the UAE’s role in overseeing and shaping international humanitarian and philanthropic endeavors.

Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who also serves as the Chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs Families Affairs at the Presidential Court, the council comprises distinguished individuals, including Her Excellency Reem Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Her Excellency Maryam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Al Mheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Development; His Excellency Faris Mohammed Ahmed Al Mazrouei, Adviser to the Presidential Court; His Excellency Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Red Crescent; His Excellency Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development; and His Excellency Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for International Development Affairs.

The council assumes a pivotal role in supervising and guiding international humanitarian and philanthropic affairs. Its responsibilities encompass various aspects, including the oversight of the international humanitarian sector, review and approval of the policy agenda for international humanitarian affairs, supervision of initiatives and project implementation, development of future visions for international humanitarian affairs, formulation of general frameworks for implementation, and the establishment of necessary subcommittees to support operations.

A noteworthy feature is the integration of several existing committees, such as the Joint Strategic Committee for African Cooperation, UAE Humanitarian Committee, Higher Committee for Foreign Aid, and International Health Advisory Committee. This consolidation aims to streamline efforts and enhance the effectiveness of the UAE’s humanitarian initiatives on a global scale.

The establishment of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to playing a leading role in international humanitarian efforts and fostering collaboration for the betterment of global communities. The council is poised to make significant contributions to shaping policies, initiating impactful projects, and ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of humanitarian leadership.