Abu Dhabi: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the opening of the “Women in a Changing World” summit at the General Women’s Union headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The summit, organized by the GWU, UN Women, the International Telecommunication Union, and the UAE Cybersecurity Council, aimed to explore the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the women, peace, and security agenda.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed expressed gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for supporting the empowerment of Emirati women. He delivered a speech on behalf of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, highlighting the forum’s role in uniting global experts to strengthen international cooperation and dialogue. The summit underscored the importance of enhancing women’s knowledge in military sectors to tackle cyber threats and promote peace.
The conference also focused on the UAE’s efforts in
empowering women through initiatives such as the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Women, Peace and Security Initiative. This initiative established the Centre of Excellence for Women, Peace, and Security and launched the UAE’s National Plan to implement Resolution (1325), making the UAE a pioneer in the Gulf region for supporting women in peace and security efforts.
Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, remarked on the summit’s significance in advocating for women in a changing global landscape. She emphasized the need for safeguarding fundamental freedoms and enhancing cooperation to address cybersecurity threats. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union, commended the UAE’s forward-looking approach in AI and cybersecurity.
Noura Al Suwaidi from GWU and Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti from the UAE Cybersecurity Council highlighted the UAE’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity and empowering women. The summit included discussions on integrating gender equality i
nto cybersecurity strategies and addressing the impact of cyber threats on fundamental freedoms.
Bérangère Böell, United Nations Resident Coordinator at the UAE, and Ghalia Al Mannai of GWU emphasized the transformative potential of technology for peace and security. The summit featured panel discussions on AI’s role in cybersecurity, incorporating gender perspectives into strategies, and confronting cyber threats to fundamental freedoms. The event concluded with a call for strengthened regional and international cooperation in cybersecurity.