within society and underscored the need for reconciliation among individuals to serve as a guiding principle in interpersonal interactions. He noted that such an approach significantly contributes to the enhancement of social cohesion, the consolidation of values related to tolerance and understanding, and the promotion of social peace and family stability, ultimately safeguarding the social fabric.

Furthermore, His Highness highlighted the “Direct Line” program, which was referenced by various speakers, as a viable solution for achieving restorative justice. He expressed the hope that these initiatives would elevate community awareness regarding the significance of amicable resolutions and the avoidance of conflicts, emphasizing the goal that disputes be resolved proactively before escalating to the program. His Highness advocated for a collaborative integration of roles among judicial, media, and community entities to foster a culture of reconciliation and understanding across diverse societal issues.

The dialogue session was attended by Judge Dr Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Head of the Judicial Department; Counselor Dr Salah Al Hammadi, Head of Prosecution in the Public Prosecution of the Emirate of Sharjah; Brigadier Dr Mohammed Khamis Al Othmani, Director of the Sharjah Police Sciences Academy; and Dr Emad El Din Hussein, an independent arbitrator and academic legal advisor.

Judge Dr Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi emphasized the significance of focusing on the implementation of restorative justice, which addresses two pivotal aspects: justice and reconciliation. He articulated the need to seek solutions that transcend disputes to foster harmony among individuals. He noted several alternatives, such as arbitration, mediation, and family reform, which align with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. These directives underscore the importance of reformative measures before resorting to judicial intervention. Furthermore, he revealed that a dedicated department within the organizational structure of the Department of Justice specializes in restorative justice, recognizing its critical significance and alignment with the objectives of the Emirate of Sharjah.

Judge Al Kaabi elaborated on the key initiatives adopted by the Department of Justice, indicating that the Emirate of Sharjah possesses the necessary resources and elements to achieve the objectives of restorative justice. One such initiative is the Alimony Fund, which contributes to the resolution of cases and the alleviation of conflicts. Additionally, the parental agreement serves to establish the principles and ethics governing parental relationships between parties, thereby mitigating issues and reducing the risk of family disintegration.

In conclusion, the Head of the Judicial Department expressed his aspiration for the practices in the Emirate of Sharjah to serve as a model from which others may derive benefit, positioning them among the exemplary practices that uplift societies. He underscored the importance of establishing partnerships and collaborative efforts with academic institutions to enhance the ongoing endeavors and revealed that initiatives are underway to establish a national observatory for restorative justice. This observatory aims to obtain optimal outcomes and disseminate findings to improve the operational framework.

Counselor Dr Salah Al Hammadi emphasized the significance of adhering to the new judicial framework aimed at mediating disputes among members of society. He highlighted the need to address disputes brought before the Public Prosecution and to resolve them before they escalate to the courts. This involves facilitating amicable sessions and devising solutions that take into account the interests of all parties. Such an approach not only serves as a means of dispute resolution but also alleviates the courts' workload in the emirate.

Furthermore, Al Hammadi underlined that the Public Prosecution is diligently working to streamline procedures to achieve favorable outcomes. He noted that the service for waiving complaints is available online, enhancing the efficiency of problem resolution. In addition, he emphasized the importance of increased awareness campaigns regarding the reconciliation process, identifying it as the preferred option. He referenced the reconciliation track initiative, which is characterized by its family-oriented approach, ensuring that disputes are resolved with privacy and amicability, away from police intervention, and in collaboration with various local civil authorities within the emirate.

Al Hammadi elucidated that the prospects of restorative justice are promising, bolstered by ongoing oversight and substantial support from His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who demonstrates a strong commitment to this initiative. This endeavor aligns with the UAE's declaration of 2026 as the Year of the Family, further illustrating the leadership's dedication to family and societal welfare and the implementation of restorative justice.

Brigadier Dr Mohammed Khamis Al Othmani spoke about the role of community policing, emphasizing the importance of communication and building relationships with community members. This, he explained, increases the sense of security —a phenomenon observed in the Emirate of Sharjah, where it reached 99.7%, according to statistics issued by the Department of Statistics and Community Development. He further explained that focusing on reconciliation leads to stronger family bonds, and he revealed that the police motto is "Reconciliation before Litigation." He pointed out that taking individuals to court and placing them in correctional facilities negatively impacts their future.

Al Othmani revealed that the police organizational structure includes departments that support reconciliation across various categories. These departments employ specialists trained to handle conflicts and bridge the gap between parties. He also highlighted the existence of numerous partnerships with governmental and private entities, as well as charitable organizations, all working to resolve disputes within the community and create a conducive environment for problem-solving. He emphasized that specialists undergo training courses to develop their skills and enhance their communication with individuals of diverse nationalities and religions across the country. He added that research in these areas helps promote a positive image of community policing.

The Director of the Sharjah Police Sciences Academy concluded by underscoring the significance of partnerships with community policing initiatives. He advocated for the dissemination of this approach in collaboration with governmental departments and agencies, while also raising awareness about the necessity of compassion in order to prevent family disintegration and the proliferation of crime, both of which adversely impact society and its constituents.

Dr Emad El-Din Hussein addressed successful international practices concerning restorative justice and the advancements in mediation techniques over the years. He articulated the necessity of integrated platforms to facilitate an effective judicial system, deeming this progressive approach a fundamental enabler adopted globally.

Hussein examined international judicial initiatives and highlighted notable global methodologies aimed at achieving amicable resolutions. He discussed various case studies that have produced favorable outcomes for communities, asserting that reconciliation represents both an economic and social choice grounded in its intrinsic value to community security.

The academic legal advisor emphasized essential tools that must be implemented to realize restorative justice. These include activating institutions focused on youth engagement, developing their competencies, and promoting tolerance. He also highlighted the importance of incorporating restorative justice principles into academic curricula, affirming that the Emirate of Sharjah possesses the requisite elements for effective implementation.

At the conclusion of the dialogue session, His Highness the Chairman of the Judicial Council received several awards and publications presented by their authors from the judicial sector in the emirate during the Sharjah International Book Fair. These works addressed a range of legal and judicial topics, reflecting the cognitive and professional advancement of judges and members of the Public Prosecution.