Opinion | Editorials
Debate on national identity
The country's economic growth has had a significant impact on its demographics.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:01 April 21, 2009
The challenges faced by Arab societies are numerous when it comes to the issue of national identity - which takes on even greater importance in light of the changes brought about by globalisation. UAE society is also facing various challenges given the ongoing changes that are taking place.
Intellectuals and experts shared their perspectives on the issue at the two-day dialogue on national identity held at the Sharjah Higher Colleges of Technology. Participants discussed elements of strength and weaknesses faced by Emirati and Arab societies.
There are many factors that affect any given society, including its demographics, globalisation and global influences that transcend physical borders.
Undoubtedly, the focus should be on the most crucial factors that preserve the national identity of any given Arab society - including the Emirati one - namely language, history and religion. These are the cornerstones that define whether a group of people belong to a certain identity or not.
Emirati society also does not stand in isolation in this debate, given that economic growth, dramatic demographic changes and future prospects have had their impact.
Any plan to ensure the preservation and continuation of the national identity must take such crucial factors into account.
More from Editorials
More from Opinions
Opinion Editor's choice
-
Russia, China complicit in Syria carnage
By Fawaz Turki, Special to Gulf News
By their double veto at the UN, they have chosen to back the Al Assad regime that is already wet spaghetti
-
Two prime ministers in trouble
By Kuldip Nayar, Special to Gulf News
Gilani faces contempt of court charge while Singh encounters moral responsibility in 2G scam case
-
Moving towards honest democracy
By Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of Russia
Russia needs to unbundle power and property and separate executive power from system of checks over it
Your turn
