On the occasion of the Arab Day of Civil Society Organisations, observed annually on 27 December, the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the role of civil society institutions in advancing development efforts across Arab countries. It underscores its dedication to supporting their achievements and fostering the innovative initiatives they propose, which contribute to bridging the divide between the government, civil, and private sectors. This is achieved through the adoption of a genuine participatory approach that embodies the principles of shared responsibility, while promoting the values of citizenship, volunteerism, public service, and humanitarian responsiveness.
Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Social Affairs Sector at the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, emphasised the League’s ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation with Arab civil society institutions. These efforts include sponsoring, hosting, and organising joint events with numerous associations, unions, and organisations in various fields. Such initiatives aim to strengthen the grassroots dimension of joint Arab action, complementing the work of specialised ministerial councils and affiliated organisations.
She highlighted that the commemoration of the Arab Day of Civil Society Organisations reflects the collective recognition by Arab countries of the critical role civil society plays. This involvement extends to developing programmes that bolster the institutional capacities of community entities and enhance their ability to address the economic, social, and cultural challenges confronting Arab societies. These efforts align with a culture of generosity, good governance, and active participation in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030.
Her Excellency also drew attention to the grave global developments currently threatening international peace and security, particularly the ongoing brutal Israeli aggression in the occupied Palestinian territories and the escalating security challenges undermining regional stability. She stressed the need for collective efforts, from both official entities and civil society, to prioritise dialogue, multilateral diplomacy, and political solutions that respect international law and human rights. Such efforts aim to prevent wars, conflicts, and humanitarian disasters, safeguarding populations from fragility, violence, and instability.
Furthermore, Dr. Abu Ghazaleh praised the initiatives of Arab civil society in enhancing humanitarian responses and mitigating human suffering, particularly in the Gaza Strip. She acknowledged their critical role in supporting refugees and displaced individuals in Arab countries affected by wars and conflicts. These initiatives represent an urgent call for intervention to halt the bloodshed of defenseless civilians, including women and children, and to alleviate their enduring suffering.
