Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, represented by its Department of Islamic Research and Studies, has affirmed that family cohesion in Qatar remains strong, citing balanced personal status legislation and comprehensive legal protections for children and women that contribute to family stability and the psychological and social well-being of children.
The findings were presented in the first publication of the Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani Local Peer-Reviewed Award, titled Family Cohesion and Its Role in Child Care: A Comparative Descriptive and Analytical Study, authored by researcher Omar bin Othman Al-Khatib.
The study underscores the positive impact of Qatar’s legislative framework and institutional support in strengthening family unity while expressing hope for further progress through the continued efforts of government and community institutions.
According to the report, Qatar has established an extensive support system for families, including family counselling and training centres, family reconciliation services, specialised family courts, research institutes dedicated to family issues, and a dedicated ministry responsible for family affairs. These initiatives, alongside ongoing child and women’s welfare programmes, are viewed as key contributors to maintaining family stability.
The department also highlighted the important role of educational institutions in promoting social values, strengthening awareness of the importance of stable families, developing balanced curricula, providing positive role models, and addressing the challenges posed by modern technology. It further recognised the historical contributions of Qatari scholars and community leaders in preserving family values through education, religious guidance, research, media engagement, volunteer initiatives, Friday sermons, community outreach, and participation in local and international conferences.
Sheikh Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Thani, Director of the Department of Islamic Research and Studies, said the publication reflects the Ministry’s commitment to advancing its educational, cultural, and intellectual mission by promoting Islamic values, strengthening public awareness, and supporting serious academic research addressing issues related to individuals, families, and society from an Islamic perspective.
He described the award-winning study as one that addresses a vital issue at the heart of social development, noting that a cohesive family serves as the primary environment for shaping individuals, instilling values, and safeguarding society against fragmentation and social instability. He expressed hope that the publication would serve as a valuable reference for readers.
The study examines family cohesion through an Islamic framework, exploring the significance of the family institution, the foundations of strong family relationships, and the family’s essential role in raising children. It also focuses on Qatar’s efforts to reinforce family cohesion, highlighting the contributions of scholars, reformers, and national institutions while assessing both current achievements and future aspirations.
Structured into three chapters, the publication discusses the concepts and terminology of family cohesion, examines family cohesion in light of Islamic Sharia, and analyses family cohesion within Qatari society.
