From the Editors: There is no room for racism in football

Announcement of 50 new UAE national projects in sync with the times: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced that the UAE will start the new season of government work this year in a different way. Sheikh Mohammed declared that UAE will launch 50 new national projects this month to support the country’s development journey. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, called on the UAE people to take part in these projects by harnessing their knowledge, creativity and resourcefulness. Innovation, creativity and futuristic thought and action have always been part and parcel of the UAE’s phenomenal growth story. With the nation now in its golden jubilee year and with Dubai set to host Expo 2020, the announcement of these 50 new national projects couldn’t have been any better timed. [COMMENT BY: Sanjib Kumar Das, Assistant Editor]

There is no room for racism: During their World Cup qualifier against Hungary at Budapest last night, the England team was racially abused by the home fans. Man City striker Raheem Sterling was targeted during the match which England won 4-0 and the Football Association has condemned as "completely unacceptable" the racist abuse. Uefa already ordered Hungary to play several home games without fans after their discriminatory behaviour at Euro 2020 but last night they were allowed inside the Puskas Arena as the match fell under Fifa jurisdiction. Before the match had even kicked off the home fans began to boo the England's players when they took a knee to protest against racism. And when England took the lead in the second half through Sterling, he was pelted with paper cups and bottles. When Harry Maguire added the third a flare was thrown on to the pitch while coach Gareth Southgate had ice thrown at him by fans. The authorities must come down strongly on fans who racially abuse players but until we deal with racism within society as a whole not much will change in the world of sport. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor

Afghanistan stares into the unknown: In a matter of weeks, everything in Afghanistan has turned upside down. Taliban co-founder Mullah Baradar will lead a new Afghan government now, even as an armed rebellion is underway in the Panjshir Valley, a small sliver of mountainous territory. Meanwhile, the economy is collapsing, and hunger could well emerge as the biggest danger. America, which invaded Afghanistan in 2001 and withdrew last month after the Taliban victory has said it has no plans to release frozen Afghan assets. Very tough times lie ahead for the long-suffering people of Afghanistan. [COMMENT BY: Omar Sharrif, International Editor]

Helping children protect themselves: Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie has released a new book written with human rights lawyer Geraldine Van Bueren, called ‘Know Your Rights and Claim Them’, which aims to equip kids with the knowledge to challenge injustices they face. Jolie, a mother of six, has been long-time supporter of human rights and is vocal about the issues that people face around the world. It’s commendable that she has lent her voice and celebrity status to help vulnerable children who might not know about the rights they have and deserve. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Features]