WGS 2018 Highlights Role of Citizens in Co-creating Government Services

Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid calls for an inclusive dialogue with all age groups

Dubai-UAE: 13 February, 2018 –   It is important for governments to work together with their citizens when considering new services, said Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, UAE Minister of Community Development, on day two of the sixth World Government Summit (WGS 2018) in Dubai. 

In her opening remarks in a session titled ‘Co-Creating Government Services with Citizens’, Her Excellency discussed how we can activate radical creativity, curiosity and generosity in a population over the age of 60 in the UAE.  

She said: “We need to stop talking about aging and us-versus-them and start talking about all of us by inviting all age groups across various fields – from designers to developers and experts – to work together to create new offerings and opportunities.”

Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid went on to explain how the Ministry of Community Development aims to support all members of the UAE community and to develop services that will help achieve satisfaction and happiness for all ages. 

She said: “The fact is that one day, God willing, we will all be of an advanced age, and we will want to be included in decision-making processes nevertheless.” 
Her Excellency’s responsibilities include promoting family cohesion and involving the community in the development of the UAE.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the World Government Summit 2018 runs from February 11 to 13 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. The landmark event convenes more than 4,000 participants from 140 countries, including heads of state and governments, as well as top-tier representatives of 16 international organizations.

Hosting more than 130 speakers across 120 interactive sessions, WGS 2018 features six distinct forums that examine the challenges of vital sectors for the future with a view to finding the best resolutions for the greater global good. Furthermore, over 20 specialized global reports spanning key sectors and topics of the summit are being launched during the event.