Abu Dhabi: A delegation from the Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi visits New Zealand to explore leading practices in advancing community quality of life. The visit was centered around gaining insights into the experiences and initiatives aligned  with  the quality-of-life framework endorsed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The delegation was led by  His Excellency Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the DCD, and included Her Excellency Dr. Layla Abdulaziz Al Hyas, Executive Director of the Community Development Sector at DCD, Her Excellency Eng. Shaikha Alhosani, Executive Director of the Social Monitoring and Innovation Sector at DCD, His Excellency Mazen Jaber Aldahmani, Executive Director of Financial and Administrative Affairs at DCD, along with other senior leaders  from various Abu Dhabi government entities. .

During the visit, the delegation engaged with representatives from key New Zealand institutions to learn about the New Zealand Living Standards Framework (LSF). The LSF serves as a critical tool for government agencies to identify and priorities the factors that most significantly impact quality of life. This framework guides decision-making processes and supports the implementation of initiatives aimed at improving living standards and enhancing the well-being of communities. The LSF is structured around four key pillars:  financial and physical capital, human capability, the natural environment, and social cohesion.

The delegation also explored  the mechanism used in New Zealand  for integrating social priorities into  public budget planning.  By utilizing advanced  impact-analysis tools, these mechanisms help to ensure that decisions are well-informed and that  specific criteria are established for  effectively measuring and evaluating key indicators.

Additionally, the delegation was introduced to New Zealand’s integrated data system, which plays a pivotal role in supporting both the government and researchers specializing in data analysis. This system provides critical  information that supports decision-makers in achieving quality of life objectives and implementing effective plans.

The visit further included discussions on the social and economic framework that New Zealand uses to define and achieve desired living standards. This framework is designed to align with local and community needs, setting long-term goals based on aspirations for well-being and quality of life, and ensuring that  data and metrics are readily available to  all individuals and communities.

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About the Department of Community Development

The Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi (DCD) was established in 2018 to govern the social and community-development sector through a set of policies, strategies, systems, and standards. The Department aims to improve the quality of life in the emirate and provide a dignified life for all, through high-quality, impactful, and efficient services. One of DCD’s priorities is to raise awareness about social issues pertinent to Abu Dhabi and its people and find innovative solutions.

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