SCO countries seek to strengthen family, motherhood, fatherhood and childhood institutions

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation countries have pledged to strengthen the institutions of family, motherhood, fatherhood and childhood in a statement adopted after the group’s anniversary summit in Bishkek on September 1.

The statement, published on the organisation’s website, describes support and protection for the family as an important area of state policy. It links family welfare to sustainable development, social cohesion, public well-being and national security.

The countries said they would support older generations, deepen ties between generations and create conditions for families to live with dignity and well-being. They also committed to promoting unhindered access to education for everyone, regardless of social status, place of residence, family circumstances or mobility.

The statement presents traditional spiritual and moral foundations of family life as a way to reduce the risk of family disintegration amid global migration and to support the harmonious development of younger generations. It also says family well-being can help reduce social risks, prevent crime and deter young people from involvement in destructive activities.

The countries highlighted a Kyrgyz proposal to hold an SCO Family Forum as a platform for exchanging experience and discussing educational, cultural and social initiatives. They said they would expand exchanges on family policy, women’s and children’s rights, prevention of social hardship and offenses, and would pursue joint projects aimed at strengthening families and improving their quality of life.