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Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Tackling the Role of Cultural and Heritage Institutions in Supporting the Law Respect Culture


MoI Ramadan Councils Conclude

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Monday, July 29th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

The Ramadan Councils, organized by the Law Respect Culture Bureau at the Ministry of Interior and held at the State level, concluded on Sunday evening.

In its fourth and last session, the Council tackled “the Role of Cultural and Heritage Institutions in Supporting the Law Respect Culture”, through four main topics, namely; the” Law Respect Culture and its social, religious, and legal importance; the “role of Customs and Traditions in Instilling the Law Respect Culture; the culture of coexistence in the UAE society; and as fourth topic, some “legal highlights”.

Discussions focused on the councils’ main objectives, praising the Ministry of Interior’s keenness to achieve confidence and communication with community members, by establishing social-oriented departments, which seek to develop the sense of societal responsibility among individuals, and acquaint them with the vital role they play to support state institutions in discharging their duties, based on interaction and exchange rather than receiving and implementing orders.

The Councils’ sessions also included an overview of the establishment of the Law Respect Culture Bureau, the General Secretariat of His Highness Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior; based on the fact that acquainting individuals with the laws that apply to them, make them more efficient and contributory to achieve their security and the security of others. For this end, the Bureau has sought to educate individuals on provisions of the law and their significant importance in their lives. Following the successful mobile legal Ramadan tents that roamed the various emirates last Ramadan; and as per the instructions of the police leadership to make the legal meetings friendlier and closer, it was decided to hold the Ramadan councils in citizens’ homes this year.

Sultan Zayed Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments at the Western Region, hosted the Council at his home in the Western Region, which tackled the “Role of Cultural and Heritage Institutions in Supporting the Law Respect Culture”. Habib Al Sayegh, Editor-in-Chief, Advisor of Editorial Affairs at Dar Al Khaleej led the discussions. Participants lauded the keen attention dedicated by Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and his commitment to hold such important councils, which represent a unique opportunity to meet and discuss a number of key issues. They emphasized that the UAE is a state where the rule of the law reigns, and where all citizens and residents enjoy security and stability.

Participants also emphasized that their council, which coincides with the ninth anniversary of the death of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is an important opportunity to highlight the significant role played by the legendary nation builder in reinforcing the law respect culture. This has contributed to make the United Arab Emirates one of the leading countries in the world, in implementing the principles of the rule of law, equality and social justice.

Addressing the gathering, Sultan Zayed Al Mazrouei praised the tremendous efforts exerted by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding father of the UAE, in instilling the principles of law respect culture in the UAE society, and endeavoring to make them part of the ingrained well-established values in this society. He commended the unique character of His Highness, God rest his soul, who was able to reconcile between customs, traditions and modernity; particularly with respect to law and regulations, whereas he succeeded in transforming society from a tribal society with family loyalties into a civilized modern society that abides by the rule of the law.

Al Mazrouei expressed his thanks to the Law Respect Culture Bureau at the Ministry of Interior for the trust it bestowed upon him, and for granting him the opportunity to host this Council. He stressed the importance of the Ramadan Councils in enhancing communication and cohesion between community members during the holy month of Ramadan, which is synonymous of brotherly love, affection and societal communication.

He added: “Organizing such pivotal councils across the emirates reflect the Ministry of Interior’s keenness to achieve confidence and communication with the various segments of society, by establishing social-oriented departments, which seek to develop the sense of societal responsibility among individuals, and acquaint them with the vital role they play to support state institutions in discharging their duties, based on interaction and exchange rather than receiving and implementing orders”.

Habib Al Sayegh, Editor-in-Chief, Advisor of Editorial Affairs at Dar Al Khaleej inaugurated the Council by expressing his thanks to Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior on the Ramadan Councils’ initiative, organized by the Law Respect Culture Bureau at the ministry. Moreover, he lauded the councils, which represent a unique opportunity to reach out to all citizens and listen to their views and ideas, with a view to enhance cooperation between the ministry and other institutions in the UAE society.

“On this day, we recall the founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the unparalleled leader who lives on in the hearts and conscience of the masses, thanks to his generosity and achievements held in great esteem by the entire world,” he said.

He added: “As we gather here today, to examine the role of cultural and heritage institutions in instilling the law respect culture, we cannot overlook the significant achievements of HH Zayed Al Khair with respect to the promulgation of the laws and the Constitution, and to establish a judicial system, which reconciles between the Sharia and Law, so as to establish the nation's identity and its commitment to the constants”. Moreover, he added that history will record His Highness’s keenness to rule with justice and wisdom among his people.

Al Sayegh also lauded the efforts of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in reinforcing the judicial system across the country. “This system applied the latest scientific and practical methods of litigation to ensure the rights of people; and is now witnessing a paradigm shift under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE."

As a first topic, Al Sayegh highlighted the law respect culture and its religious, social and legal importance. Poet Mohammed bin Saeed Al Raqraqi Al Mazrouei noted that voluntary compliance with the law is one of the most prominent elements of cohesion in the UAE society, which enjoys security and safety; stressing that it stems out of community members’ free will, and is not  coercive. “People of the UAE have maintained respect for the law with the transition from a tribal society to the modern day state with its laws and legislations. Due credit and recognition are to be given to His Highness late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, for developing and reinforcing the judicial system; as well as to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who followed the footsteps of the founding father, and completed the task to the fullest,” he added.

Furthermore, he noted that respect for the law is part of the religious and legal duties of individuals. “Law was enacted to ensure people’s rights and execute justice for the oppressed; it is also part of the Almighty Allah’s teachings, whereas the law which governs our societies is derived from the Islamic religion and the Sharia, and respecting the law and its principles is a responsibility for which we will be held accountable comes judgment day (Yawm al-Qiyāmah),” he continued.

On the same note, Nasser bin Khalfan Al Mazrouei indicated that respect for the law is part of the customs and traditions in the Emirati society that were inherited from parents and grandparents. “We have been taught to comply with the customs and traditions that govern our society, for the best interest of all. The extent of compliance with these laws reflects the extent of individuals’ respect for other members of society,” he stated.

Al Mazrouei added that late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan played a major role in establishing balance between customs, traditions and the requirements of modern life. He maintained the inherent original traditions that are beneficial for society, and called to abolish some of the negative customs of the tribal society, namely; extravagance in weddings; costly dowries; denying women’s education and other habits, which would have hampered the progress of society, had they been still practiced.

Concluding, Al Mazrouei commended the UAE leadership’s wisdom and vision, which encouraged institutions that deal with authentic Emirati heritage at the state level. He also lauded the leadership’s unlimited support for these institutions, which have been instilling respect for UAE’s customs and traditions in the Emirati generations; particularly respect for the law.

For his part, Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Salah Obeid Al Ghoul, Director of Law Respect Culture Bureau, indicated that family plays a vital and essential role in instilling the law respect culture among community members.

Mohamed Hashem emphasized the pivotal role of the family in inculcating the law respect culture in children, by acquainting them with the UAE customs and traditions based on respect for others and other people’s rights; as well as the need to respect all segments and components society, and to give priority to the collective interests over personal interests.

Nehkairah bin Saleh Al Mazrouei stated that the UAE people are loving and open to all civilizations; stressing that the UAE has managed over four decades, thanks to the wise leadership’s instructions and guidance, to build a global reputation as one of the world's most open countries to the various cultures of the world, and capable of embracing and harboring these cultures.

He added: “Promoting the law respect culture and implementing the principles of justice and equality among all residents of the United Arab Emirates have been instrumental in encouraging the various communities of the world to live in the UAE. Whereas all residents in the state enjoy all rights that guarantee their legal interests and ensure them a decent living”.

Moreover, Al Mazrouei pointed out that the UAE society has maintained its national identity and adhered to its authentic humanitarian heritage, despite the large number of foreign communities and nationalities residing in the country. “This has been possible thanks to the evolution of Emirati people’s character, armed with science and knowledge, which enabled them to positively interact with others, without losing any of its original and basic features,” he continued.

As part of the fourth topic, participants tackled the relationship between law, customs and traditions; which, according to Sultan Zayed Al Mazrouei, complement one another. “We approve laws and procedures that promote the traditional authentic customs and values of the Emirati society; and community members from all walks of life are required to reinforce the law respect culture,” he said.

The Council featured a number of national-oriented poems, which cited the various virtues and qualities of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Poet Mohammed bin Saeed Al Raqraqi Al Mazrouei recited a poem titled “Cherished and Glorious Nation”, which opened as follows:

“Praise be to the glorious nation, whose glory draws on the hard work of its founders and provides for the seekers”.

In turn, child Saeed Nasser Al Mazrouei recited a poem about cohesion between the people and the country’s leadership, which opened as follows: “We work hand in hand with our elders… for the coveted goal of leadership”.

At the end of the Council, participants expressed their thanks and appreciation to the higher leadership; praising its generous gestures, which contributed to achieve sustainable development across the country, and provided its citizens with all means of decent living, particularly in the Western Region.

Attendees emphasized that thanks to the police leadership’s instructions, the Ministry of Interior made considerable success this year in the various Ramadan Councils, which were held across the country. This reflects the concept of unity and cohesion enjoyed by the UAE people, and embodies the leadership’s dedication to be close to its people, meet their needs, and examine their opinions.

Khalaf Al Habtoor, Chairman of the Al Habtoor Group hosted the Ramadan Council in Dubai.  Discussions were conducted by Dr. Khalifa Ali Al Suwaidi, Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Learning Methods, the Faculty of Education at the U.A.E. University.

Abdullah Hamed Al Riami hosted the Ramadan Legal Council in the emirate of Sharjah. Presenter Mohammed Al Suweiji, manager of the Sharjah Channel led the discussions.

For his part, Dr. Ibrahim Al Mahrazi underscored the importance of intensifying media campaigns in this respect; while Preacher Saleh Abdul Karim emphasized that laws enacted by the State govern social relations as per the highest standards of tolerance.

Dr. Abdullah Al Suweiji pointed out that the UAE society is an example of cohesion and unity with the higher leadership.

Salim Ahmed Al Nuaimi hosted the Council in Ajman, where presenter Ali Singel led the discussions, which were attended by a number of women.

Saif bin Bader Al Ghafli hosted the Ramadan Council in Umm Al Quwain. Haitham Al Hamadi, presenter at Abu Dhabi Sports Channel led the discussions.

In Ras Al Khaimah, Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Fares, former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education hosted the Ramadan Council, which was led by journalist Ali Al Shamesi. Present at the Council was Dr. Najeeb Al Shamesi, economic adviser to the Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), who spoke about Sheikh Zayed glorious history.

Abdullah Al Sharhan, former member of the National Council, highlighted the national initiative concept, and the need to avoid racism; while religious preacher Sheikh Abdullah, from the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments in Ras Al Khaimah underscored the role of religion in maintaining customs and traditions.

The Council’s Topics

As a first topic, the Ramadan Council highlighted the concept of law respect culture and its religious, social and legal importance. It has created a social culture among community members of all ages and categories, on the need to respect legislations (often referred to as written laws) and unwritten laws (customs, traditions, practices, usages, and other maxims of human conduct), because of their essential and vital role in protecting their rights and their lives and ensure their safety and freedoms. This would encourage individuals to respect the law out of conviction, not out of fear of punishment or legal penalty.

This topic explained that violating the law may often be considered as a crime, similar to murder and robbery, and is consequently punishable by a penalty determined by the law. Disobeying traditions and customs is not considered as a legal crime; it is rather a social violation often punishable by resentment and contempt from community members, unless such violations affect public morals.  In such cases, the judge gets to determine if the violation constitutes a criminal behavior, and rule accordingly. This would guarantee that personal freedoms are not violated in the name of law, and that usages and laws cannot be violated in the name of personal freedom.

With respect to the social aspect, the Ramadan Council indicated that humans are social beings that cannot live or fulfill their needs alone; which prompts them to live in societies or within groups. Living in a society requires establishing relationships between its members, on the economic, social or familial levels; and such relationships need to be identified and well organized.

This explains the idea of rights and obligations. Each member of society has specific rights, namely; the right to life; equality; work and creativity. Equally, he is bound by the obligation to respect and guarantee the same rights of others; within a specific framework of freedom. Preserving and protecting these rights prompted the enactment of a law that applies to everyone, in order to guarantee the rights of individuals and prevent them from violating the rights of others. Furthermore, and in order to ensure the implementation of these laws without any discrimination; the Authority was given to the State; which had to impose the mandatory legal rules; as well as the punishment and sanctions on anyone who violates the law. The law itself was originally promulgated to protect the rights and freedoms of every individual, and is not limited to a particular individual or group.

Therefore, legal sanctions are not designed to punish individuals, but to preserve their rights.

With respect to the religious aspect, the Council revealed that the provisions of the Islamic Law are based on two sources: the Holy Quran and the Sunnah; stressing that law guarantees the good interests of people. Islam calls on rulers to enact laws that govern life and actions, consistent with the times, provided that these laws are in keeping with the sources of legislation, i.e the Quran and the Sunnah, which ensures a smooth life, safety and security for all community members, and leads to development. For this reason, it is necessary to abide by the rule of the law, as long as it aims at protecting rights, and ensuring compliance with the rules and usages in societies, with respect to protection of religion, country, individuals, honor, money and the mind; as well as protection of individuals against moral crimes.  Therefore, it is mandatory to obey officials and leaders who enacted the laws that aim at achieving progress and development, protecting rights and identifying obligations, as per the provisions of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah.

With respect to the legal aspect, the Council ascertained the importance of legal culture to guarantee that individuals do not violate law regulations out of ignorance.  There is an established legal principle in the Islamic jurisprudence that says: “ignorance of the law excuses no one”. It means that  when a law is approved and published in the Official Gazette, it becomes binding to every individual within the State borders; and no one can claim  that he or she is unaware of the law in question to avoid liability., Therefore, it is important to create a positive relation among individuals and the law, to convince them that the binding laws enacted by higher authorities are not in vain; but were established for the specific  purpose  of protecting individuals and achieving justice and equality in society. Moreover, the law-making process is not arbitrary; it is done according to a scientific methodology and well-advised statistics, to achieve the best interests of all individuals.  These laws, even if they restrain freedoms to a certain extent, were promulgated to protect individuals, who should be aware that it is in their good interest and the interest of others around them to respect the law.

The second topic touched on the role of customs and traditions in instilling the law respect culture (Laws and Traditions ... Relationship of Conflict or Integration). Customs and traditions are an integral part of the written legal rules, and together, they  establish the legal system of the State, as there are many issues that the law failed to tackle,  and were left to traditions to decide.  Furthermore, several traditions became a legal rule, violating of which imposes legal sanctions, especially those habits related to the general interest of society. For example, lying is an ugly habit, but lying is not a statutory offence unless it affects the public interest. You cannot lie in court, as it is considered a perjury. Another example: Helping others and caring for them is a desirable habit; and even if neglecting them is not a crime, if a person neglects his child and puts his life at risk, he is guilty of an offence punishable by law.

Customs and traditions are an important component for building national identity; and since law preserves communities, it safeguards their identities by safeguarding their traditions. The law endeavors to develop societies and overcome the challenges of constant change; therefore, some habits may become negative, and contradict modern laws that seek to develop society. In this case, it becomes important to implement the law to counter traditions and negative customs such as tribal kinship, favoritism, or influential people refusing to obey the laws. The traditions that we must preserve are the positive traditions, namely; respect for others; respect for parents; kids love, chivalry; and generosity.

If a given action constitutes a violation of the public order and morals, it is considered a crime. It is up to the judge to determine the issue of morality- because it is a broad- according to the circumstances and conditions. For example, a person may not go out naked in the street or wear obscene clothes; dance in the streets or carry out indecent behaviors, as that constitutes a crime. Furthermore, some parents constitute negative role models for their children, when observing customs and traditions that constitute a violation to the law; such as violating traffic laws or disrespecting police commands. This would negatively impact children, and lead them to believe that customs and traditions are above the law.

The third topic highlighted the culture of coexistence in the UAE society. The UAE has become a universal hub of stability and coexistence, thus attracting various nationalities and cultures of the world.  It is noteworthy that more than 200 nationalities of various cultures, religions, and languages live and work in the UAE. They live within its social and legal system in harmony and cohesion.  The law safeguards their rights and liberties and requires them to fulfill their duties as determined in the legislation. This has become a source of strength for the culturally homogenous Emirati society; leading to an atmosphere where different cultures involve in a fruitful beneficial dialogue, which creates a sense of societal solidarity between all its segments.

On the same note, this topic highlighted that the legislation in force in the State, namely; the Constitution, laws and administrative decisions have supported the concept of coexistence and tolerance in the UAE according to the Emirati Constitution. Whereas Article 14 stipulates that: “Equality, social justice, ensuring safety and security and equality of opportunity for all citizens shall be the pillars of the Society. Co-operation and mutual mercy shall be a firm bond between them”. Article 25 stipulates that:  “All persons are equal before the law, without distinction between citizens of the Union in regard to race, nationality, religious belief or social status”, while Article 32 states:  “Freedom to exercise religious worship shall be guaranteed in accordance with established customs, provided that it does not conflict with public policy or violate public morals”. Moreover, Article 40 stipulates: “Foreigners within the Union, shall enjoy, the rights and freedom stipulated in international charters which are in force or in treaties and agreements to which the Union is party. They shall be subject to the corresponding obligations”. Article 44 provides for the: “Respect of the Constitution. Laws and orders issued by public authorities in execution thereof, observance of public order and respect of public morality are duties incumbent upon all inhabitants of the Union”.

Therefore, the law guaranteed freedoms and assured other cultures the freedom to express their beliefs and culture in all their forms and to practice their religion. In return, , it imposed on them the obligation to respect all laws and norms established in the State, so that everyone is under the law, enjoying their rights and freedoms, and fulfilling their obligations without any obstacles.

Moreover, the fourth topic tackled legal highlights, explaining that the legislative process is a dynamic and continuous process that issues laws and amends others… It also revokes laws that may affect us directly or indirectly; laws that may be closely related to us as individuals, or to those around us. It is only fair that we acknowledge that many of us are unaware of these laws’ provisions even if they directly affect our life. We may also inadvertently violate these laws on a daily basis. Yet, it is a fact that everyone should be acquainted with these laws, to ensure that they don’t find themselves involved in a legal problem “without knowing that they have committed a crime”; and "ignorance of the law is not an excuse to avoid liability. 

Some individuals may be surprised to see certain daily practices punishable by the law, or the extent of some sanctions on actions they deemed minor or trivial. Some might even claim that they never heard of precedence in such cases, or say that some crimes cannot be proven under some circumstances. However, experience in the justice system has shown the importance of knowing the provisions of the law, as the best means to prevent the consequences of law violations.

However, experience in the justice system has shown that many persons got involved in actions they never expected to be criminal acts to begin with; to involve such serious sanctions; or that the particular circumstances of time and place may get them involved in some kind of crime. Those people were held liable for their actions criminally and socially; unable to defend themselves under the pretext of ignoring the provisions of the law. Breaking the law repeatedly does not indicate the legitimacy of the illegal behavior and the burden of proving the occurrence of a crime does not mean that it did not occur. Hence, it is important to know the provisions of the law, as the best means to prevent the consequences of law violations.

    (Special Cadre) Acts Criminalized under the Law and Disapproved of by the Customs:

    Respect of privacy: Did you know that disclosing  medical information to others using electronic devices  such as mobile phones, is punishable with imprisonment for up to 15 years; and hacking someone’s e-mail without his permission, can cost you a fine of half a million dirhams? Sending an email with pornographic content may cost you a fine of half a million dirhams? And did you know that if you take and post a photo of another person that violates his privacy, you could face a prison term of six months up to three years or a fine up to five hundred thousand dirhams?
    Respect for others. Did you know that insulting a person through Twitter may expose you to imprisonment of up to 3 years and a fine of up to half a million dirhams?
    Respect for religions. Did you know that insulting Christianity through social networking sites is punishable with a fine of up to a million dirhams? And insulting Allah, prophets, or messengers of God through Twitter, may expose the offender to a prison sentence of seven years?
    Female privacy: Did you know that harassing a girl in a public place may expose you to imprisonment for up to one year?

Cadre

Sultan Al Sammahi’s Council confirms:

The Ramadan Councils enhanced communication between citizens and decision-makers

Sultan Saif Al Sammahi, Member of the Federal National Council, hosted the fourth Ramadan Council in his home in Fujairah. Presenter Adnan Hamad led the discussions in the Media Council, in the presence of a number of nationals and residents.

Addressing the gathering in his opening speech, Al Sammahi stated: “The ninth death anniversary of the founding father of the UAE, and builder of its renaissance, late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may God have mercy upon him), world-renowned philanthropist, revered and remembered for his generosity and kindness,  is a solemn occasion to recall  his great lifetime achievements.  It is also an opportunity for us to express our love for the homeland and our loyalty to our wise leadership”.

“This day must remain deeply rooted in the hearts of the Emirati people as a day to recognize the values of giving and goodness he inculcated to the people of the UAE.  We call on the Almighty God to bestow his mercy upon him and the founding fathers; and to rest them in eternal peace.  We also ask the Almighty Allah to give long life to  His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers Supreme Council members and rulers of the Emirates”, he added.

Moreover, he expressed his sincere thanks to Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, for the initiatives launched by the Ministry of Interior. He also praised the idea of Ramadan Councils organized by the MOI in the nationals’ councils across the State.  He noted that these councils contribute to boost communication between citizens and decision-makers in the State; and enable citizens to express their views and ideas freely on the topics raised.

Furthermore, he noted that Ramadan Councils held during the Holy Month of Ramadan play a vital and active role in achieving communication and amity among community members during the Holy Month.

Presenter Adnan Hamad kicked off the Council, praising the State’s decision  to declare  Ramadan 19 as “an occasion to recall the exploits of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and builder of the State,” May his Soul Rest in Peace.

“The late founder of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed laid the foundations of a solid cohesive State for citizens, and provided them with means to a decent living and prosperous life. He turned the UAE deserts into green oases. He helped the UAE achieve a prominent position among world countries thanks to his acumen,   humanitarian approach, wise policy, and noble stances”, he added.

Furthermore, Adnan Hamad expressed his thanks to HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior for giving his instructions to hold such Ramadan Councils. He also extended his heartfelt thanks to all those who opened their homes to allow citizens to freely take part in discussing a number of key issues, as per a scientific manner, with prominent figures, with strong community presence, who have a wealth of ideas and experiences, as well as a significant knowledge with the topics at hand.

He noted that the topic to be discussed in the Council is “the role of customs and traditions in supporting the Law Respect Culture”, pointing out that the key point of discussion will be  the public’s knowledge of the laws and regulations of the State in general and the extent of their commitment to the law. Moreover, the council will discuss the relationship between the UAE customs and traditions with the law, and how to instill the law respect culture through customs and traditions.

For his part, Ahmed Al Jarwan, Head of the Arab Parliament, pointed out that the awareness-raising Councils acquaint community members with the Law Respect Culture, and enhances the legal culture among people. Moreover, Al Jarwan tackled the mechanisms and methods used in the Federal National Council in promulgating laws. He also tackled the relationship between the National Council and the Government in the legislative process, praising the cooperation, integration, and coordination between the Government and the Federal National Council.

Mr. Saif Al Sammahi, former member of the Federal National Council, indicated that peoples’ lives and interests should be governed by the law, pointing out that the law exists in all life aspects. He emphasized the need to enhance awareness on the UAE laws, regulations and legislations across the country and in several languages, in order to explain these regulations in a simple manner to all residents.  He added that such Ramadan Councils are effective tools in the awareness process, which should continue and not be limited to specific seasons.

He pointed out that any promulgated law needs to be presented to community members for discussion, so that people can express their points of view.

For his part, Dr. Saeed Al Hassani said that no society can live without a clear law and constitution that governs its members, regulates their relationships, and determines their obligations, duties and rights. He pointed out that customs and traditions in societies complement many laws and legislations; stressing that the ultimate goal of the law is to achieve society’s development. Furthermore, Dr. Al Hassani urged parents to inculcate the law respect culture to children, by leveraging the country’s customs and traditions.

Dr Mohammed Abdullah Saeed concurred with Dr. Al Hassani, pointing out that non-compliance with laws and proper implementation may lead to the collapse of nations. “The UAE has legislations and regulations in all fields, which are regularly updated,” he added.

For his part, Mr. Sultan Malih explained that the UAE is an open multicultural and multinational society where everyone is equal before the law, without discrimination. “This earned the UAE further respect and international appreciation,” he concluded.

Religious preacher, Salem Al kendi, from the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, spoke at the Council of  the great deeds and achievements of  late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

At the end of the Council, Journalist Adnan Hamad expressed his thanks and appreciation to Sultan Saif Al Sammahi, for hosting the Council; and to the Law Respect Culture Bureau for its efforts to organize and hold such councils. 

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The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.

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