From the Editors: UAE achieves another milestone in the COVID-19 combat

UAE ACHIEVES ANOTHER MILESTONE IN THE COVID-19 COMBAT: The conclusion of the National Sterilisation Programme in Abu Dhabi today marks yet another milestone in the UAE’s battle against COVID-19. That the Abu Dhabi Crisis and Emergency Management Committee has acknowledged the role of the public in making the programme successful should serve as a reminder that each one of us has a continuing responsibility towards achieving the end goal. We cannot let our guard down until the war against the coronavirus is fully won. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

JALALABAD PROTEST A MESSAGE: A day after Taliban leaders reassured the world that they will ensure the safety of Afghans, three people were shot dead during a rare protest in Jalalabad. Hundreds gathered in the city to raise the national flag, a day before Afghanistan’s Independence Day, which commemorates the 1919 treaty that ended British rule. Afghans, who have tasted freedom during the past two decades, may continue to resist the insurgents in some capacity. The question remains whether Taliban will keep their promises with regard to freedoms and women? Or will they silence peaceful dissenting voices? The international community will be closely watching. [COMMENT BY: Stephen N R, Senior Associate Editor]

RACIST ABUSE ALMOST CAUSED FORMER ARSENAL STAR WILLOCK TO QUIT: Joe Willock said that he considered quitting social media due to the daily racist abuse he receives. The 21-year-old Newcastle midfielder, who arrived from Arsenal last week for £22million having spent half of last season at Saint James Park, opened up about the abuse on social media. "Every day I get messages about my colour or different things that are disgusting, really. It comes up on your phone it hurts a lot. If you come off social media, you lose that connection with all the wonderful fans.” Football clubs, players and other sporting figures and bodies in England undertook a four-day boycott of social media in April in a show of solidarity against online abuse but unfortunately the problem is still very much there. Much more needs to be done to eradicate racism not only in sport but in society, everywhere. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

FINDING NEW HOPE: Unless you’re well-versed in Hollywood celebrity news, the average might not know that actor Owen Wilson survived a suicide attempt back in 2007. The star has battled depression and alcoholism in the past but seems to be in a much better place now. In a recently interview, the actor says his brother helped him recover and return to a better place. In the conversation surrounding depression, it’s important to remove any stigma and talk about it like any other sickness. The hope is that people who need help will not hesitate to get it and be able to face their issues without feeling any shame or repercussions. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]