In complete contrast to the feeble Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is to launch an assistance plan for two of its members, Bahrain and Oman. A summit in the near future is due to decide how the four nations can help the other two with practical steps that will make a difference to their populations.
The plan will seek to improve economic conditions and living standards in Bahrain and Oman, focusing on improving economic, social and living conditions of Omani and Bahraini citizens, as well as provide housing to needy citizens and offering new employment opportunities in all six GCC nations for young men and women seeking jobs.
This kind of practical social and economic help will support the GCC governments in their efforts to find better opportunities for their citizens. It will give them some valuable room for manoeuvre and will allow the citizens of all GCC states to feel that they are working to support each other.
This sort of plan is what the Gulf states are good at, and although the GCC has not flourished as a powerful regional arbiter, it has always been good at taking vital steps towards ensuring regional security. The present crisis is such a moment and the GCC leaders have seen how they can make a difference.
