DIFI highlights impact of technological transformation, climate change on families

Doha, Qatar: The interlinkages between technological trends, climate change, and family structures were the focus of the Expert Group Meetings (EGM) h...

Doha, Qatar: The interlinkages between technological trends, climate change, and family structures were the focus of the Expert Group Meetings (EGM) held in Brisbane, Australia, and the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA.

The EGMs were held in partnership with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and the Institute for Social Science Research (ISSR) at the University of Queensland.

The New York EGM discussed recommendations that included the need to develop and implement family support programmes promoting healthy communication skills, relationship management within families, reducing divorce rates, strengthening family stability, and contributing to environmental sustainability.

The EGM in Australia, meanwhile, brought together leading experts from across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific region to discuss the impact of global technology and climate change on family, and community dynamics in the regions. Dr. Khalid Al Naama, Director of the Family Research and Policy Department at Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), who represented DIFI at the EGM in Australia, said: “The interlinkage between technological advancements and climate change presents both challenges and opportunities for families across the region. Technology holds the potential to bridge divides, empower families, and foster work-family balance.” 

Prof. Lisa McDaid, Director of ISSR, who co-hosted the Oceania EGM with DIFI and UNDESA, said: “Over two days, we shared updates from cutting-edge research of our participating experts, examined knowledge gaps, and framed policy solutions for how technology can bridge digital divides within families and communities, while also empowering climate action.