Abu Dhabi, 19 June, 2025: The Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs (MFNCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Interior represented by the Ministry of Interior Youth Council, hosted a workshop titled “Youth and the Culture of Political Participation” at the Union Hall of the Police College in Abu Dhabi. Among the distinguished attendees were His Excellency Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior; His Excellency Tariq Hilal Lootah, Undersecretary of the MFNCA; His Excellency Brigadier Walid Salem Al Shamsi, Commander of the Police College; His Excellency Sami bin Adi, Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services Sector at the MFNCA. The workshop also welcomed members of the Ministry of Interior Youth Council and 100 officer cadets.
This workshop is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of political participation across all segments of society. It aims to enhance awareness of the crucial role played by the Federal National Council among the youth, encouraging their active involvement in the country’s political progress and parliamentary processes.
The workshop, led by Dr. Ahmed Al Mansoori, an expert in international law and human rights, covered a wide range of important topics. These included the Political Empowerment Program, the significance of the Federal National Council’s role, and the youth’s active contribution to the UAE’s political landscape and parliamentary affairs.
His Excellency Tariq Hilal Lootah, Undersecretary of the MFNCA, highlighted the Ministry’s strong belief that youth represent the backbone of the country and the driving force behind its future. “The Ministry is committed to engaging and empowering young people both intellectually and politically through dialogue-based workshops and awareness initiatives. This commitment reflects the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership, which seeks to foster political participation and instil understanding of the Federal National Council’s role as a platform to represent the people of the Union and contribute to national decision-making. These initiatives as well as the partnerships with federal and local entities aim to cultivate a politically aware generation capable of participating responsibly in the country’s parliamentary process,” H.E. added.
Participants in the workshop discussed the significance of such events in deepening political understanding and reinforcing values of positive citizenship throughout all segments of society. They noted that the workshop served as an ideal platform for dialogue, enabling the exchange of ideas and fostering stronger communication channels between youth and institutions. The participants also recommended that such initiatives be held regularly, as they play a vital role in advancing parliamentary development and strengthening political awareness across the country.
The Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs continues to encourage a culture of political participation across all categories of society, with a particular focus on youth. This commitment is reflected through various impactful programs and strategic collaborations with a range of federal and local partners. The Ministry prioritises the organisation of events that highlight the role of the Federal National Council, raise awareness of its importance within the Political Empowerment Program, and contribute to the development of parliamentary life in the UAE. The Ministry plays a key role in facilitating coordination between the government and the Federal National Council (FNC) regarding the Council’s functions. It is actively involved in preparing legislation related to the FNC’s responsibilities and overseeing media activities related to parliamentary affairs. It also serves as the Secretariat of the National Elections Committee by managing all operational aspects of the Executive Committee, including administrative, financial, and technical matters.
The Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs plays a central role in promoting political participation within society and in raising awareness about the nature of parliamentary life in the UAE. Its efforts are guided by the vision of the country’s wise leadership and are tailored to reflect the distinct identity of the UAE society.