Dubai: The creation of a tolerance ministry — a world first — and a sweeping new law against discrimination are two key moves rolled out by the UAE in recent times.
In July last year, the federal government issued a tough new law against any form of discrimination on the basis of religion, caste, creed, doctrine, race, colour or ethnic origin.
The law, passed by a decree of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, criminalises acts that are deemed to stoke religious hatred. The law also aims to provide a “sound foundation for the environment of tolerance”, the UAE’s press agency WAM reported at the time.
Violators face jail terms and hefty fines.
Then, in February, the UAE announced the creation of a tolerance ministry, alongside new ministries for happiness and youth affairs.
The ministry is headed by Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi. Shaikha Lubna previously served as the Minister of State for International Cooperation. She holds the distinction of being the UAE’s first woman minister.
As part of her role, Shaikha Lubna regularly meets religious leaders across the UAE.
In June, she led a diplomatic trip to the Vatican City to meet Pope Francis and other dignitaries.
Key value
Days later, the UAE approved a national programme for tolerance, which took place at the same time as Ramadan.
The cabinet meeting was led by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Tolerance is a “key value of our ancestors and our founding fathers”, said Shaikh Mohammad.
“The UAE has succeeded in spreading it throughout the Arab region and the world,” he added.
Presenting the National Tolerance Programme to the cabinet, Shaikha Lubna said that the programme would help boost society values.
The tolerance programme also includes the creation of a Council of Tolerance, made up of experts, and a Tolerance Centre, which would study and promote concepts of tolerance.
UAE authorities have also rolled out other tolerance-related moves, including a hand sign. And, starting from the next academic year, tolerance will be the topic of a compulsory course in UAE universities.
