A non-issue in the UAE
I think it depends on which country we’re talking about. In Dubai, people will not tolerate the harassment of a woman in the street. It’s the key reason why I feel so safe here. Although, maybe if I was in a country like where there is unequal treatment for women, I would feel that apathy towards street harassment is a cause for concern.
From Ms Prexie Gui
Dubai
All needed for change
Harassment against women is increasing day by day all over the world. First off, as per religion - it is not allowed. Secondly, as per usual, I think it is something that has been condemned all over the world. Overall, I think that it is a bad thing to do, and it should be stopped.
Now, as per street crime against women: the UAE is the safest place for a woman. But women still need to take some advice on the matter.
It is important that they don’t show off. This means dressing properly to show that both body language and mindset is not giving the wrong signals. Once that’s done, educate women that they shouldn’t be scared to report anything because ignorance sometimes is not a best solution. You will be safe and sound.
Men also need to be told. For the men who are doing these things, women are just sex objects. Flirting is a starting point, which can either end positively or negatively. A strict law should be amended in all countries that scare men.
From Mr Mahmoud Sarwar
London, UK
Awareness campaigns appreciated
I think it is disturbing that it has become a cultural norm to get this type of harassment on the street. It is so common; it just becomes part of day to day life for women. When I look at social media campaigns like #youOKsis, I think it is a good idea to make people more aware of the possible opportunities to help out a stranger in need.
For me, when someone is making rude comments to me, I don’t want to respond back. Even telling them to stop means opening up a conversation I didn’t want to have in the first place. I would really appreciate if someone intervened on my behalf.
From Ms Shana Lee
Dubai
Equal in all ways
When in public, we see that men are fully covered. For some reason, women are not covered fully and I don’t understand why. If men and women are to be treated equally, they should be covered up equally. Both are human, but women are acting like puppets or some sort of showpiece. I think it is humiliating for them to do this.
From Mr Umme Mohammad
Sharjah
Muster up courage
I strongly agree that society has become apathetic towards this type of harassment and that it can lead to worse crimes. The culture of minding ones own business and not interfering in another’s life has encouraged men to commit crimes against women.
If only people stood up for the sake of others, I think the world would be a safer place. It is very unfortunate that many a times people turn a blind eye to injustice against women due to the fear of their own safety.
It is high time that we come out of our comfort zones and support what is right. We cannot change the situation until and unless we muster up the courage to speak up and stand against injustice.
From Ms Fatima Suhail
UAE
