The Regional Conference of the Family Links Network for the Near and Middle East 2024, organized by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), concluded its three-day event in Al Khobar, Eastern Province, held from 11 to 13 November. This was the first time the Kingdom hosted the conference.

The final day featured a review of the Family Links Strategy 2020 - 2025 and its updates, discussions on protecting individuals by safeguarding their personal data, and the principles, methodologies, and tools supporting family links protection programs. Comprehensive services were also presented to cater to the needs of the most vulnerable groups, such as children and detainees.

The closing activities addressed emerging issues like climate change, conflicts, and the digital revolution. Participants reached a consensus on the crucial need for data protection, establishing basic standards for data sharing, and setting specific objectives for data use.

Additionally, the importance of incorporating family links into emergency response plans was emphasized. Continued coordination among the components of the International Movement was stressed to support separated families and the missing, ensuring they receive answers. The conference also resulted in various proposals and outcomes from the workshops, which will be refined and included in the final report for approval by all participants.

Throughout the conference, representatives from national societies, ICRC missions, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies engaged in discussions. Participants from ICRC offices and Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies in the Near and Middle East exchanged knowledge and practices, exploring the theoretical and practical aspects of the humanitarian response to reconnect families separated, missing, or deceased.