Prof. Ki-Soo Eun, Director of the Center for Global Migration and Inclusive Society, participated as a panelist in the Doha conference commemorating the 30th anniversary of the International Year of the Family, joining government representatives, academics, NGOs, and civil society leaders to highlight the importance of the family and the contemporary megatrends affecting it in modern society. This conference, marking the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s designation of the International Year of the Family in 1994, is grounded in the principles of the 2004 Doha Declaration, which emphasizes the family’s right to the broadest protection and support at an international level.

Held under the theme "Family and Contemporary Megatrend", the conference addresses various global challenges that impact families and society, such as technological advancements, demographic shifts, climate change, migration, and urbanization. In particular, it focuses on the economic and social impacts of an aging population and declining birth rates, underscoring the importance of social safety nets and family support programs. Through these discussions, the conference aims to foster global family-oriented policies that respond to these critical trends.

• Session Title: "The Fertility Crisis and Its Global Impact"
• Date and Time: Wednesday, October 30, 2024, 2:00-2:45 PM
• Panelists: H.E. Mariam bint Ali bin, Prof. Ki-Soo Eun, Árpád József Mészáros JD, Dr. Ayman Shabana, Dr. Ann Skinner
• Session Overview: This session examines the domestic and global impacts of population decline and aging societies, addressing economic and social challenges. Topics include the economic strain on healthcare systems and policies aimed at boosting birth rates, such as workplace incentives to support family growth, as well as the political aspects of population dynamics.