Mr. Mohamed Reda Fawzy/ Egypt, ANECD’s Consultant

12 October 2026 

Dr. Youssef Hajjar passed away, leaving behind an enduring humanitarian legacy in the journey of protecting children’s rights and fostering ECD in the Arab world. He was a visionary who believed that the future of societies begins with safeguarding the dignity of their children and empowering them to learn, grow, and fully realize their rights. He played a pivotal role in founding the Arab Resource Collective (ARC) and launching the Arab Network for Early Childhood Development (ANECD), leaving an institutional and intellectual mark that resonates both at the Arab and global levels. He carried the causes of Arab children to global platforms, advocating for their rights, particularly in conflict zones.

Youssef Hajjar possessed a distinctive humanitarian and artistic sensibility that manifested in his warm presence and performance conveying a message of human dignity. He embodied the ideal of the inspiring educator who sees in every child a promise of life and in every actor in the fields of education and rights a building partner. His impact will endure through the principles he established and the institutions he supported, remaining a source of inspiration for all those who work for childhood and human rights.