Saudi Arabia Hosts Restoring Family Links Network for Near and Middle East Regional Conference.

Al-Khobar: The Restoring Family Links Network for the Near and Middle East regional conference commenced today in Al-Khobar, Eastern Region, organized by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This significant event, held for the first time in Saudi Arabia, will span three days, from November 11 to 13, focusing on knowledge exchange and discussions concerning humanitarian responses for reconnecting families separated or missing. According to Saudi Press Agency, the conference will convene representatives from national societies, ICRC missions, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Attendees will include representatives from ICRC offices and national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies across the Near East and Middle East regions. The agenda highlights discussions on the Family Links Strategy 2020-2025 and beyond, outlining the humanitarian efforts led by SRCA in support of displaced families and missing persons. T he "Shawafat" platform, a dedicated initiative for restoring family links, will also be showcased during the conference. Participants will engage in discussions aimed at identifying and addressing the needs of families of displaced and missing persons, exploring potential solutions, and safeguarding personal data. The conference will delve into the principles, methodologies, and tools employed in family link protection programs and initiatives, alongside the regional dynamics within the Family Links Network in the Near East and Middle East.