By Steven Stanek, Foreign Correspondent
WASHINGTON // By anyone’s measure, Masara Y Alameri is a successful woman. She earned a master’s degree in material science and engineering from UAE University, rose through the ranks of the Abu Dhabi Municipalities and Agriculture Department, and now serves as the leading urban planner for Masdar City.
Last week Ms Alameri set out, along with a delegation of other accomplished Emirati women, on a trip to the US capital, hoping not only to showcase their achievements but change a perception some in Washington have of women in the Middle East: that they are treated as second-class citizens and lack the same opportunities as men.
“There are some who maybe have not visited us or maybe not read enough about us to really acknowledge what we are about,” said Ms Alameri, who also oversees landscaping for Masdar City and is responsible for ensuring that all its projects are carbon-neutral.
“They’ve been surprised about the amount of progress that we’ve been able to reach … the way the woman has been respected, acknowledged, pushed and supported by our leaders.”
The delegation, sponsored by the UAE Embassy, was billed as the first all-female delegation from the Emirates to visit the United States.
The other delegates were Sheikha Hind Al Qassimi, chairwoman of the Emirates Business Women Council; Sheikha Khulood Saqer Al Qassimi, director of the Department for Curriculum and Instructional Materials Development at the Ministry of Education; Najwa Mohammed Alhosani, an assistant professor at UAE University; Shayma Fawwaz, director of international investments at Dubai International Financial Centre; and Maryam Matar, director general of the Dubai Community Development Authority.
The delegation shuttled between conferences at think tanks and NGOs and met two US legislators: Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a New Hampshire Democrat and the first woman to be elected as both governor and US senator; and Jan Schakowsky, a Democratic congresswoman from Illinois and a leading advocate of women’s issues.
Last Monday the delegation met Melanne Verveer, who was appointed by the US president Barack Obama as ambassador-at-large for global women’s issues.
“We were impressed by the breadth of fields in which women in the UAE now participate,” said a spokesperson at the office of global women’s issues at the US State Department.
For Dr Alhosani, the meetings with top female legislators offered an insight into “how American women leaders have pushed their way into very prestigious positions”.
Just 10 months ago, Dr Alhosani earned her doctorate in education from Kansas State University. “When I lived [in the US], I never saw myself as far away from US women,” she said. “We share the same interests, the same passion, the same lifestyle.”
Women are guaranteed equal rights under the UAE constitution and have made great strides in recent years.
Three quarters of graduates from UAE universities are women and there are nine female members of the Federal National Council, according to a government report released last year.
Four women serve in the UAE Cabinet and the first female member of the judiciary, Judge Khulood al Dhaheri, was sworn in last year.
Two female pilots recently became the first to graduate from Etihad Airways’ cadet programme, and four female fighter pilots serve in the UAE Air Force, according to Yousef al Otaiba, the UAE’s ambassador to the US, who highlighted the achievements of Emirati women in a speech last week at the UAE Embassy in Washington.
The delegates said they hoped their visit would highlight their progress to an American audience, whose view of women in the Middle East was skewed by frequent news coverage of less tolerant countries such as Iran and Afghanistan.
“Women are not asking for rights in the UAE right now, they are practising them,” said Ms Fawwaz. “We’ve travelled many years ahead of many other countries in the region.”
“We succeeded in changing some of the impressions and misconceptions about the United Arab Emirates in general in this country,” said Sheikha Hind.
“We hope we succeeded in showing the right portrayal of Emirati women.”
sstanek@thenational.ae
Showing posts with label uae. Show all posts
Showing posts with label uae. Show all posts
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
UAE: Sheikha Fatima visits shelter for victims of human trafficking, donates AED 1 million
Abu Dhabi, 8 Nov. 2009 (WAM) - H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union and Supreme President of the Family Development Foundation today visited the centre for sheltering women and children who are victims of human trafficking which operates under the umbrella of the UAE Red Crescent Authority.
Sheikha Fatima donated AED 1 million to help the victims regain their normal lives.
Sheikha Fatima was received at the centre by Sara Shuhail, Executive Director of the centers and the women working there.
Sheikha Fatima, who was accompanied by Dr Maitha Al Shamsi, Minister of State, was briefed on the conditions of the victims. She talked to the victims and comforted them. She also reassured them that the centre was created to shelter and to protect them.
She reiterated UAE's rejection of such terrible crimes committed against innocent women and children and expressed support to all efforts to guarantee their financial and morale rights.
Sheikha Fatima toured the centre's different sections and praised the levels of services offered to the victims of human trafficking.
Sheikha Fatima donated AED 1 million to help the victims regain their normal lives.
Sheikha Fatima was received at the centre by Sara Shuhail, Executive Director of the centers and the women working there.
Sheikha Fatima, who was accompanied by Dr Maitha Al Shamsi, Minister of State, was briefed on the conditions of the victims. She talked to the victims and comforted them. She also reassured them that the centre was created to shelter and to protect them.
She reiterated UAE's rejection of such terrible crimes committed against innocent women and children and expressed support to all efforts to guarantee their financial and morale rights.
Sheikha Fatima toured the centre's different sections and praised the levels of services offered to the victims of human trafficking.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
UAE: Women muftis by end of 2010
DUBAI // The UAE will appoint what are likely to be the world’s first state-sanctioned female muftis next year, after the Grand Mufti announced details yesterday of plans to recruit and train them.
Six Emirati women are being considered for the training programme, said Dr Ahmed al Haddad, who is also the head of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. Once accepted they will begin the course, which will last several months, early next year.
The move follows a fatwa issued by Dr al Haddad in February that sanctioned women’s role as muftis. In May, he called on qualified Emirati women to apply for the programme, which includes instruction in Sharia law and legal thinking.
“We continue to accept new applicants until we begin the training,” said Dr al Haddad. “It is already part of the 2010 budget.”
The status of female muftis has caused controversy within the religious establishment elsewhere in the Muslim world, with Egypt’s Al Azhar University, a powerful centre of Sunni scholarship, rejecting the possibility of women becoming grand muftis.
However, Dr al Haddad said that debate did not affect whether women should serve in other roles.
“The controversy over female muftis is not necessarily over this point, but about whether or not a woman should be appointed as the grand mufti of a state,” he said. “And that is not what we’re trying to do at this point.”
The move is part of a broader push to recruit and train Emiratis to the department, especially in the role of advising and issuing decrees on religious matters.
They will be instructed according to the Maliki school of jurisprudence, one of four in the Sunni tradition and the one followed in the UAE. Instructors are typically from academic and religious institutions, including practising muftis.
Although women currently serve as religious advisers at the Abu Dhabi fatwa centre, their role is limited to advising women on “women’s issues”. The Dubai move would mark the first time women have acted as muftis on a par with their male counterparts.
In February 2008, the Egyptian family court appointed Amal Soliman as the first female Islamic notary with the ability to perform marriages and divorces. Her duties were not equal to those of a mufti.
Dr al Haddad, who has five daughters, one of whom is a student of Sharia, said his fatwa earlier this year was based on Islamic tradition, which he said was “rich in examples of highly learned women acting as muftis and issuing decrees on all matters”.
“A woman who is learned and trained in issuing fatwas is not limited in her role to issuing fatwas that relate to women only, but rather she is qualified to issue on matters of worship, jurisprudence, morality and behaviour,” he said.
He referred to a Quranic verse to support his decree that Islamic tradition has always sanctioned women to act as muftis on all matters that concern society.
A fatwa, or religious decree, is in effect a legal opinion derived from the Quran, hadith or precedents in the Islamic tradition.
“Evidence points to the fact that women too can order acts of virtue and ban acts of vice just like a man can,” he said, referring to the basic tenement of a mufti’s role.
“And of course she can do that only with acquired scholarship and training, which is what female contemporaries of the Prophet have done as well as the women who came after them.” (The National, Nov. 03, 2009)
Six Emirati women are being considered for the training programme, said Dr Ahmed al Haddad, who is also the head of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. Once accepted they will begin the course, which will last several months, early next year.
The move follows a fatwa issued by Dr al Haddad in February that sanctioned women’s role as muftis. In May, he called on qualified Emirati women to apply for the programme, which includes instruction in Sharia law and legal thinking.
“We continue to accept new applicants until we begin the training,” said Dr al Haddad. “It is already part of the 2010 budget.”
The status of female muftis has caused controversy within the religious establishment elsewhere in the Muslim world, with Egypt’s Al Azhar University, a powerful centre of Sunni scholarship, rejecting the possibility of women becoming grand muftis.
However, Dr al Haddad said that debate did not affect whether women should serve in other roles.
“The controversy over female muftis is not necessarily over this point, but about whether or not a woman should be appointed as the grand mufti of a state,” he said. “And that is not what we’re trying to do at this point.”
The move is part of a broader push to recruit and train Emiratis to the department, especially in the role of advising and issuing decrees on religious matters.
They will be instructed according to the Maliki school of jurisprudence, one of four in the Sunni tradition and the one followed in the UAE. Instructors are typically from academic and religious institutions, including practising muftis.
Although women currently serve as religious advisers at the Abu Dhabi fatwa centre, their role is limited to advising women on “women’s issues”. The Dubai move would mark the first time women have acted as muftis on a par with their male counterparts.
In February 2008, the Egyptian family court appointed Amal Soliman as the first female Islamic notary with the ability to perform marriages and divorces. Her duties were not equal to those of a mufti.
Dr al Haddad, who has five daughters, one of whom is a student of Sharia, said his fatwa earlier this year was based on Islamic tradition, which he said was “rich in examples of highly learned women acting as muftis and issuing decrees on all matters”.
“A woman who is learned and trained in issuing fatwas is not limited in her role to issuing fatwas that relate to women only, but rather she is qualified to issue on matters of worship, jurisprudence, morality and behaviour,” he said.
He referred to a Quranic verse to support his decree that Islamic tradition has always sanctioned women to act as muftis on all matters that concern society.
A fatwa, or religious decree, is in effect a legal opinion derived from the Quran, hadith or precedents in the Islamic tradition.
“Evidence points to the fact that women too can order acts of virtue and ban acts of vice just like a man can,” he said, referring to the basic tenement of a mufti’s role.
“And of course she can do that only with acquired scholarship and training, which is what female contemporaries of the Prophet have done as well as the women who came after them.” (The National, Nov. 03, 2009)
UAE: GWU launches legal rights awareness drive for women's
WAM Abu Dhabi
A two month program was launched today by the General Women's Union (GWU) to educate women about their legal rights and build their capacity to defend these vested constitutional rights.
Being organized by the GWU in conjunction with the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the ''Know Your Rights'' program will feature a series of 12 workshops to familiarize women leaders from government ministries and departments with international laws and conventions on rights of women, in addition to a bundle of UAE laws like the personal status code, and laws on civil service and labor. These activities will shed light on provisions enshrined in the UAE constitution in regards to personal status code, and laws of labor and human resources.
GWU Director General Noura Al Suweidi said ''The program seeks to raise awareness standard of women about their vested rights guaranteed by the UAE constitution and laws and build their capacity to defend their legal rights.
In today's workshop held at the GWU premises, Dr Mohammed Abdul Rahim of College of Law, UAE University, lectured about 40 women leaders on rights and duties of women in the view of the the personal status code.
A two month program was launched today by the General Women's Union (GWU) to educate women about their legal rights and build their capacity to defend these vested constitutional rights.
Being organized by the GWU in conjunction with the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the ''Know Your Rights'' program will feature a series of 12 workshops to familiarize women leaders from government ministries and departments with international laws and conventions on rights of women, in addition to a bundle of UAE laws like the personal status code, and laws on civil service and labor. These activities will shed light on provisions enshrined in the UAE constitution in regards to personal status code, and laws of labor and human resources.
GWU Director General Noura Al Suweidi said ''The program seeks to raise awareness standard of women about their vested rights guaranteed by the UAE constitution and laws and build their capacity to defend their legal rights.
In today's workshop held at the GWU premises, Dr Mohammed Abdul Rahim of College of Law, UAE University, lectured about 40 women leaders on rights and duties of women in the view of the the personal status code.
Monday, October 19, 2009
UAE: First Etihad Emirati women cadet pilots graduate
WAM Abu Dhabi, 19 Oct. 2009
Etihad Airways' first female Emirati cadet pilots - Salma Al-Baloushi and Aisha Al-Mansouri - have successfully graduated from flight training alongside nine male colleagues and gained their airline transport pilot license (ATPL).
The cadet pilots, Etihad's second group to graduate, were conferred with their flying wings in a ceremony at the airline's training academy which was attended by family and friends as well as senior management from Etihad Airways and the Horizon International Flight Academy.
Joining Salma and Aisha to receive their wings were Ali Al Farsi, Ahmed Balalaa, Ibrahim Sanqoor, Khalid Al Ali, Mohamed Al Kaabi, Khalid Al Marzouqi, Khalil Amiri, Abdalla Balkhashar and Hasan Abdulla.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways' chief executive, said: "Everyone at Etihad is delighted that Salma and Aisha - our first female cadet pilots - have made history as the first women to graduate from the program.
"Salma and Aisha are a key part of Etihad's expanding female pilot community and we wish them, as well as their male colleagues, the best of luck as they enter the next phase of their careers with Etihad." The cadets started the pilot program course in September 2007 and now have the rank of second officers at Etihad Airways.
As second officers the pilots will undertake a multi-crew co-operation course and an Airbus A320 type conversion course which will enable them to fly as co-pilots on the Etihad Airways Airbus A320 short haul fleet.
The cadet pilots will spend much of the time during the type conversion course in Etihad's A320 full-flight simulator as well as training in the development of non-technical skills applicable to working in a multi-crew environment. After approximately six months they complete their final checks and will qualify as A320 first officers.
In order to gain the frozen ATPL the cadet pilots had to complete 750 hours of classroom tuition and 205 hours of flight training in single and multi-engine aircraft. During this time they all passed the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority's theoretical knowledge and flying exams.
Etihad Airways recently welcomed the 100th cadet pilot to its innovative and expanding flying program. Shareefa Al Bloushi is a member of Etihad's tenth group of cadets. She is also the sixth female Emirati cadet pilot to join the program, and eighth female overall.
In addition to the cadet pilot program, Etihad Airways' Emiratisation initiatives focus on two other streams which include the technical engineering development program and graduate management development program.
Etihad now also has two international cadet pilot courses which run alongside the five Emirati courses at Horizon Academy. The two groups contain 24 cadet pilots from countries around the world including Hungary, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Etihad Airways' first female Emirati cadet pilots - Salma Al-Baloushi and Aisha Al-Mansouri - have successfully graduated from flight training alongside nine male colleagues and gained their airline transport pilot license (ATPL).
The cadet pilots, Etihad's second group to graduate, were conferred with their flying wings in a ceremony at the airline's training academy which was attended by family and friends as well as senior management from Etihad Airways and the Horizon International Flight Academy.
Joining Salma and Aisha to receive their wings were Ali Al Farsi, Ahmed Balalaa, Ibrahim Sanqoor, Khalid Al Ali, Mohamed Al Kaabi, Khalid Al Marzouqi, Khalil Amiri, Abdalla Balkhashar and Hasan Abdulla.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways' chief executive, said: "Everyone at Etihad is delighted that Salma and Aisha - our first female cadet pilots - have made history as the first women to graduate from the program.
"Salma and Aisha are a key part of Etihad's expanding female pilot community and we wish them, as well as their male colleagues, the best of luck as they enter the next phase of their careers with Etihad." The cadets started the pilot program course in September 2007 and now have the rank of second officers at Etihad Airways.
As second officers the pilots will undertake a multi-crew co-operation course and an Airbus A320 type conversion course which will enable them to fly as co-pilots on the Etihad Airways Airbus A320 short haul fleet.
The cadet pilots will spend much of the time during the type conversion course in Etihad's A320 full-flight simulator as well as training in the development of non-technical skills applicable to working in a multi-crew environment. After approximately six months they complete their final checks and will qualify as A320 first officers.
In order to gain the frozen ATPL the cadet pilots had to complete 750 hours of classroom tuition and 205 hours of flight training in single and multi-engine aircraft. During this time they all passed the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority's theoretical knowledge and flying exams.
Etihad Airways recently welcomed the 100th cadet pilot to its innovative and expanding flying program. Shareefa Al Bloushi is a member of Etihad's tenth group of cadets. She is also the sixth female Emirati cadet pilot to join the program, and eighth female overall.
In addition to the cadet pilot program, Etihad Airways' Emiratisation initiatives focus on two other streams which include the technical engineering development program and graduate management development program.
Etihad now also has two international cadet pilot courses which run alongside the five Emirati courses at Horizon Academy. The two groups contain 24 cadet pilots from countries around the world including Hungary, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Raghda Shaheen: Bridging Two Worlds -- America and The Middle East
Published: June 23, 2009 in Knowledge@Wharton
Raghda Shaheen, who works for the Dubai International Finance Centre, recently completed a four-week business and legal fellowship program at Wharton and the University of Pennsylvania law school. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of State Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and supported by America-Mideast Educational and Training Services (AMIDEAST), teaches management, business and legal skills to women from the Middle East and North Africa. This year, 22 women from 11 countries attended the program. Shaheen will spend the next three months working at the Chicago Chamber of Commerce before returning to the UAE. She spoke with Knowledge@Wharton about her experiences in Gaza City, Canada, the U.S. and the Middle East.
An edited transcript of the conversation follows.
Knowledge@Wharton: Raghda, thanks for joining us.
Shaheen: Thank you for having me.
Knowledge@Wharton: Can you start off by telling us a little bit about yourself? Where you were born, educated and where you have worked so far?
Shaheen: Sure. I am an Arabic girl, born in Kuwait to Palestinian parents. So I am Palestinian. I lived in Kuwait for seven years and then moved to Palestine. I grew up in Gaza City, and moved to Toronto, Canada, in 2001. I received a bachelor's degree in engineering. I worked there for a couple of years and then moved to Dubai in 2008 and that's where I live right now.
Knowledge@Wharton: What are you doing there?
Shaheen: I'm a business and process consultant at Dubai International Financial Centre.
Knowledge@Wharton: Why did you decide to come to the program at Wharton and Penn Law?
Shaheen: I always find exchange programs are fascinating because it's my opportunity to break some stereotypes. I've been in similar programs before and I really enjoyed the experience. So I thought that I would use the opportunity to come again to the States and do more work on breaking stereotypes.
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Knowledge@Wharton: What kinds of stereotypes are you talking about?
Shaheen: On both sides. I'm talking about the stereotypes of both Americans and Arabs [regarding] business behaviors, the people, the culture ...
Knowledge@Wharton: So what's an example on your side?
Shaheen: I find a lot of stereotypes about Arab women that I would like to break and about Arabs in general here in the States, because [most people] receive their [impressions] from the media. We all know that the media can be biased at certain times and does not reflect the correct image of the culture. So I came here to experience the American culture by myself through my [own] eyes, not through someone else's eyes. And I try to transfer that to the Americans myself.
Knowledge@Wharton: So what would you think is a typical American image of an Arab woman and how is that image right or wrong?
Shaheen: They still have the image that Arab women may not be educated, that they're suppressed, that they can't work, they don't speak, they are not cosmopolitan. So I try with my fellows here to break that stereotype. We tell them that Arabs in general, not just women, usually speak two languages at a minimum. We speak English as a second language in my country. There are other places in the Middle East, such as Lebanon and Syria, that speak French as a second language. The exposure to the West is very high in the Middle East, probably because of the political situation and the geographical location of that area. So we already know about other countries and civilizations out there in the world.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is it unusual for Arab women who are educated and have work experience like you to come to the States and take courses here and bring that [knowledge] back to their home countries?
Shaheen: I would say it depends. It depends on the family and it depends on the occasion. My aunt 30 years ago left to receive her education in medicine in Germany. But that doesn't mean that it's okay for most of the families. It depends on the family level of education and the country, the culture and the tradition. The Arab world is 14 countries and it's diverse. I think this is the beauty of it, that it's diverse. You would find all the cultures there.
Knowledge@Wharton: In Gaza City, would you consider yourself one of the more educated, more experienced women in terms of business background and career?
Shaheen: I wouldn't say the most educated because ... the education level in Gaza is very high. But I would say I'm one of the luckiest to have this exposure to opportunities out there in the world, because of the unfortunate political situation. Some of the people in Gaza are lucky to be alive.... So yes, I am blessed with opportunities. But the education [level] is very high in Gaza. I can talk about my personal experience. I was a senior in high school when the [uprising] started and the war. The political situation deteriorated in Gaza in 2001. That did not stop me from reaching my school, which was 45 minutes away. So I believe people living there definitely have a strong soul and are intent on [providing] education for their kids.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is this your first trip to the United States?
Shaheen: No.
Knowledge@Wharton: When were you here before?
Shaheen: I've been here a couple of times before. I have a sister here who lives in Boston and is chief of radiology at Harvard Medical School. And I've visited Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey during my previous job through Siemens Canada. So I received some training courses here.
Knowledge@Wharton: You are now taking both business and law courses? Is that correct?
Shaheen: Yes. We have taken a couple of law classes.
Knowledge@Wharton: What is the one thing that you've learned in your business courses that you feel has been especially valuable?
Shaheen: That's an excellent question. I am an engineer by education. I haven't had a strong exposure to finance and accounting. My job is consulting. I always face balance sheets and "no, we can't" answers from the finance department. But now I understand what they're going through because I've attended an excellent accounting class. It was a fantastic experience. It was taught in an unusual way. I think it's a new [approach] even at Wharton and they were testing it on us. I'm telling you it's fantastic. So my favorite class so far has been the accounting class.
Knowledge@Wharton: Are there certain key subject areas or topic areas that professional business women in the Middle East feel they might need more exposure to on an international basis than they now have?
Shaheen: I don't think it is Arab women only.... We [took] a course [aimed at] women [in general] in the workplace -- the issues we face as women in our workplace and how we behave when we face challenges. I found this course very interesting. It would be excellent if we could promote it for women in general, not just for women in the Middle East.
Knowledge@Wharton: How can you relate that course to your personal experience in the workplace as a woman?
Shaheen: It was [about] being proud to be a woman and not surrendering or giving up because you're a woman. You don't need to work harder than your colleagues just to prove a point ... to prove that you're capable and qualified. I think that's a fantastic observation.
Knowledge@Wharton: But I've heard from some Arab women that, in fact, they do need to work harder. They need to work two or three times harder.
Shaheen: Again, I don't think it's just an Arab woman's challenge. It's women around the globe.... I worked in Canada, as I said, and I worked in the Middle East. In both cases regarding the executive managers I've seen who are females, yes, that observation was true about them. They were trying to prove that they were qualified, capable and stronger than their peers so they had to work harder.
Knowledge@Wharton: In your business experience in the Middle East, have you ever personally felt discriminated against because you're a woman?
Shaheen: Not at all, actually. I did face that fear, to be honest with you, because of the stereotype. I lived in Toronto for seven years so I wasn't sure how the work environment would be in the Middle East. But I can quote for you the hospitality COO in my company, who is German. She said to me: "Raghda, as a German woman I face less racism and sexism in the Middle East than I ever faced anywhere else." So it's a very supportive environment. We have many executive women. I'm living, as I mentioned, in Dubai right now. There is a foundation for leadership for women supported by the ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid. To be honest, I'm very happy to be there to receive some of the support. I myself have been on an exchange program that supports me as a woman.
Knowledge@Wharton: You mentioned that you've had a lot of contact with other women in the program here. Do you feel that part of the value of this program is to help you set up a network of women you will keep in touch with when you leave? And do you have that kind of opportunity in Dubai to set up these networks? Is that something that can happen there easily?
Shaheen: I've been always interested in such networks with women. Since getting my undergraduate degree in Canada, I have been part of a Women in Engineering program because I've always been a minority. Here, yes, I think that's the main purpose of the program. But the network should not only be for women.... We should expand it because the world is not only women out there. We should extend our hand to help men also.... We should focus on the development of relationships between females and males in the workplace so that both can work together and prosper together.
Knowledge@Wharton: I have never been to Dubai. But I get the sense that you're one of a rare breed of women in that area. You are very educated, very articulate. You've had work experiences in Canada, in the U.S. You're going to be working in Chicago when you leave. But in Dubai you are definitely a minority in terms of the women there, correct?
Shaheen: It's not true, but thank you for the compliment. There are a lot of cosmopolitan girls there and ladies. Actually, I'm the fourth one in this program from my company and the number is increasing. As I mentioned earlier, I was in an exchange program similar to this but it was both males and females with American businessmen and women. The observation was the same. Again, you would be surprised that we have females who are like those you mentioned -- cosmopolitan, speaking good English, having exposure to the world. I think the world is getting smaller. Dubai is where everything is happening nowadays.
Knowledge@Wharton: Right, it is very cosmopolitan itself.
Shaheen: It is a very cosmopolitan city. Again, as I mentioned, exposure to [different] cultures is very high in the Middle East. It's close to Europe. It's close to China, India, the Far East. I think the geographical location really helps.
Knowledge@Wharton: But is it generational? How old are you?
Shaheen: I'm 25.
Knowledge@Wharton: Do you feel that women in your generation are having a very different experience than women who are 45 or 50?
Shaheen: I [believe that's true] everywhere in the world. Even here, the current generation is different than their parents. Yes, we're developing with the media, and with the technology. We watch "American Idol." We watch your TV shows. We watch "Oprah," "Dr. Phil"...
Knowledge@Wharton: Is that a good thing?
Shaheen: I don't know about that. [We watch] "Sex in the City." So I guess it's just that the exposure is getting higher and higher.... [Also], it's because the media to a certain degree exposes you to the American streets, environments and buildings. So when we went to New York, most of us felt that we had there before. We saw the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You feel that you've been on the streets of New York even if you've never been there because you always see it on TV. So that's what increasing the exposure; it's the technology. Believe it or not, the political problems are playing a good part here because we have to learn about what's happening out there in the world. Most of the political situation in the Middle East is highly related to the U.S. So that's why we're highly exposed and are learning a lot about you.
Knowledge@Wharton: What about Gaza City, where you went to high school? Is that as sophisticated and developed as Dubai in terms of opportunities for women?
Shaheen: Opportunities for women in Gaza I would say are as bad as the opportunities for men. It's not because of [gender].... Unfortunately, the political situation is really bad down there. As I mentioned earlier, they don't have the opportunity to [be] exposed [to other places] or to travel as much. But before the political situation deteriorated in 2001 was when I first started my exchange program. When I was 16, I was in a Norwegian exchange program, so we had the Norwegian students come into Gaza and we traveled to Oslo. So when the political situation was stable, yes, Gaza was doing well. I don't think it's fair to compare it to Dubai because Dubai is, relatively speaking, stable. It's safe. There is no war there. The political situation is stable. Whereas for Gaza it is not, but hopefully it will be one day.
Knowledge@Wharton: You've probably come from a very supportive family as well. Is that correct? Your parents have been supportive so you don't face any disapproval about what you're doing or where you're going or anything like that?
Shaheen: Of course. All the way.
Knowledge@Wharton: Do you live alone in Dubai?
Shaheen: No, I live with them. Actually, they moved to come and live with me. They were supporting me all the way. When I was in Canada, my mom and my dad would take turns to come and visit me. They were living in Gaza so sometimes they would be back and forth between Gaza and Toronto. And then when I made the decision to move to Dubai, we thought that it was time for us to be together. So that's why we moved all of us to Dubai.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is it fairly common for young professionals to live with their parents?
Shaheen: Yes. I guess the Arabic culture is like most of the Eastern cultures. They are very much family oriented. It's not very common for girls to move out of their family houses, even guys, until they get married. That's just how the culture is.
Knowledge@Wharton: So what are your plans now for the next few years? You're going to Chicago?
Shaheen: For three months.
Knowledge@Wharton: What will you be doing there?
Shaheen: I heard that I'll be working in green initiatives, which I'm very excited about because that's what my graduation project here at Wharton is about. And I'll be working on the submission for the Olympics 2016.
Knowledge@Wharton: That's terrific.
Shaheen: How exciting is that? I'm very excited because I think I'll be having higher exposure to this green technology, which is booming as well in the Middle East, especially in Dubai. And afterwards, I always had the plan that I wanted to go for my MBA. That's why I was very excited about this opportunity [at] Wharton, which was always my dream school.... Now it's time for me to start working on my GMAT.
Knowledge@Wharton: So you plan to apply to graduate school?
Shaheen: Correct.
Knowledge@Wharton: Will that be after you complete your work in Chicago?
Shaheen: Yes. I'm planning to enjoy the experience to the maximum and not study while I'm there.
Knowledge@Wharton: What would you like to do after business school?
Shaheen: In the long term, I would like to work in the government and get some experience in the public administration sector.
Knowledge@Wharton: Where?
Shaheen: In Dubai.... Then afterwards I would like to teach and become a professor.
Knowledge@Wharton: An engineering professor? A business professor?
Shaheen: I haven't worked much with [engineering]. I would like to teach in a business school. I would like to teach an MBA class.
Knowledge@Wharton: So, who knows? We could see you back here sometime.... I have one final question. There's a story in The Wall Street Journal today talking about the steep declines in countries around the world, specifically Mexico, Germany and Japan, and how they are getting the brunt of this financial collapse. Are you feeling the impact of the financial crisis at all in Dubai?
Shaheen: I cannot deny that this financial crisis has hit the whole world hard. Dubai is a very global city, a cosmopolitan city. And it's very highly related to the [rest of] the world economy. So, yes, it does affect investments in Dubai. However, the government is being very [supportive]. About a month ago, the government of Abu Dhabi issued bonds for 30 billion Dirham, which is almost $10 billion, to support the economy in the UAE. And since then, the situation – I've been here a month so far and I'm always in touch with my colleagues to understand the situation and I read the news -- is starting to recover. So some companies are starting to hire again. Some [employees] are receiving their bonuses and their [annual] appraisals. So, yes, I think we've been affected. But also I think we're having a stronger recovery there because the government has the funds to support it.
Knowledge@Wharton: Thank you for joining us and good luck in Chicago.
Shaheen: Thank you. It was my pleasure.
Raghda Shaheen, who works for the Dubai International Finance Centre, recently completed a four-week business and legal fellowship program at Wharton and the University of Pennsylvania law school. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of State Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and supported by America-Mideast Educational and Training Services (AMIDEAST), teaches management, business and legal skills to women from the Middle East and North Africa. This year, 22 women from 11 countries attended the program. Shaheen will spend the next three months working at the Chicago Chamber of Commerce before returning to the UAE. She spoke with Knowledge@Wharton about her experiences in Gaza City, Canada, the U.S. and the Middle East.
An edited transcript of the conversation follows.
Knowledge@Wharton: Raghda, thanks for joining us.
Shaheen: Thank you for having me.
Knowledge@Wharton: Can you start off by telling us a little bit about yourself? Where you were born, educated and where you have worked so far?
Shaheen: Sure. I am an Arabic girl, born in Kuwait to Palestinian parents. So I am Palestinian. I lived in Kuwait for seven years and then moved to Palestine. I grew up in Gaza City, and moved to Toronto, Canada, in 2001. I received a bachelor's degree in engineering. I worked there for a couple of years and then moved to Dubai in 2008 and that's where I live right now.
Knowledge@Wharton: What are you doing there?
Shaheen: I'm a business and process consultant at Dubai International Financial Centre.
Knowledge@Wharton: Why did you decide to come to the program at Wharton and Penn Law?
Shaheen: I always find exchange programs are fascinating because it's my opportunity to break some stereotypes. I've been in similar programs before and I really enjoyed the experience. So I thought that I would use the opportunity to come again to the States and do more work on breaking stereotypes.
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Knowledge@Wharton: What kinds of stereotypes are you talking about?
Shaheen: On both sides. I'm talking about the stereotypes of both Americans and Arabs [regarding] business behaviors, the people, the culture ...
Knowledge@Wharton: So what's an example on your side?
Shaheen: I find a lot of stereotypes about Arab women that I would like to break and about Arabs in general here in the States, because [most people] receive their [impressions] from the media. We all know that the media can be biased at certain times and does not reflect the correct image of the culture. So I came here to experience the American culture by myself through my [own] eyes, not through someone else's eyes. And I try to transfer that to the Americans myself.
Knowledge@Wharton: So what would you think is a typical American image of an Arab woman and how is that image right or wrong?
Shaheen: They still have the image that Arab women may not be educated, that they're suppressed, that they can't work, they don't speak, they are not cosmopolitan. So I try with my fellows here to break that stereotype. We tell them that Arabs in general, not just women, usually speak two languages at a minimum. We speak English as a second language in my country. There are other places in the Middle East, such as Lebanon and Syria, that speak French as a second language. The exposure to the West is very high in the Middle East, probably because of the political situation and the geographical location of that area. So we already know about other countries and civilizations out there in the world.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is it unusual for Arab women who are educated and have work experience like you to come to the States and take courses here and bring that [knowledge] back to their home countries?
Shaheen: I would say it depends. It depends on the family and it depends on the occasion. My aunt 30 years ago left to receive her education in medicine in Germany. But that doesn't mean that it's okay for most of the families. It depends on the family level of education and the country, the culture and the tradition. The Arab world is 14 countries and it's diverse. I think this is the beauty of it, that it's diverse. You would find all the cultures there.
Knowledge@Wharton: In Gaza City, would you consider yourself one of the more educated, more experienced women in terms of business background and career?
Shaheen: I wouldn't say the most educated because ... the education level in Gaza is very high. But I would say I'm one of the luckiest to have this exposure to opportunities out there in the world, because of the unfortunate political situation. Some of the people in Gaza are lucky to be alive.... So yes, I am blessed with opportunities. But the education [level] is very high in Gaza. I can talk about my personal experience. I was a senior in high school when the [uprising] started and the war. The political situation deteriorated in Gaza in 2001. That did not stop me from reaching my school, which was 45 minutes away. So I believe people living there definitely have a strong soul and are intent on [providing] education for their kids.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is this your first trip to the United States?
Shaheen: No.
Knowledge@Wharton: When were you here before?
Shaheen: I've been here a couple of times before. I have a sister here who lives in Boston and is chief of radiology at Harvard Medical School. And I've visited Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey during my previous job through Siemens Canada. So I received some training courses here.
Knowledge@Wharton: You are now taking both business and law courses? Is that correct?
Shaheen: Yes. We have taken a couple of law classes.
Knowledge@Wharton: What is the one thing that you've learned in your business courses that you feel has been especially valuable?
Shaheen: That's an excellent question. I am an engineer by education. I haven't had a strong exposure to finance and accounting. My job is consulting. I always face balance sheets and "no, we can't" answers from the finance department. But now I understand what they're going through because I've attended an excellent accounting class. It was a fantastic experience. It was taught in an unusual way. I think it's a new [approach] even at Wharton and they were testing it on us. I'm telling you it's fantastic. So my favorite class so far has been the accounting class.
Knowledge@Wharton: Are there certain key subject areas or topic areas that professional business women in the Middle East feel they might need more exposure to on an international basis than they now have?
Shaheen: I don't think it is Arab women only.... We [took] a course [aimed at] women [in general] in the workplace -- the issues we face as women in our workplace and how we behave when we face challenges. I found this course very interesting. It would be excellent if we could promote it for women in general, not just for women in the Middle East.
Knowledge@Wharton: How can you relate that course to your personal experience in the workplace as a woman?
Shaheen: It was [about] being proud to be a woman and not surrendering or giving up because you're a woman. You don't need to work harder than your colleagues just to prove a point ... to prove that you're capable and qualified. I think that's a fantastic observation.
Knowledge@Wharton: But I've heard from some Arab women that, in fact, they do need to work harder. They need to work two or three times harder.
Shaheen: Again, I don't think it's just an Arab woman's challenge. It's women around the globe.... I worked in Canada, as I said, and I worked in the Middle East. In both cases regarding the executive managers I've seen who are females, yes, that observation was true about them. They were trying to prove that they were qualified, capable and stronger than their peers so they had to work harder.
Knowledge@Wharton: In your business experience in the Middle East, have you ever personally felt discriminated against because you're a woman?
Shaheen: Not at all, actually. I did face that fear, to be honest with you, because of the stereotype. I lived in Toronto for seven years so I wasn't sure how the work environment would be in the Middle East. But I can quote for you the hospitality COO in my company, who is German. She said to me: "Raghda, as a German woman I face less racism and sexism in the Middle East than I ever faced anywhere else." So it's a very supportive environment. We have many executive women. I'm living, as I mentioned, in Dubai right now. There is a foundation for leadership for women supported by the ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid. To be honest, I'm very happy to be there to receive some of the support. I myself have been on an exchange program that supports me as a woman.
Knowledge@Wharton: You mentioned that you've had a lot of contact with other women in the program here. Do you feel that part of the value of this program is to help you set up a network of women you will keep in touch with when you leave? And do you have that kind of opportunity in Dubai to set up these networks? Is that something that can happen there easily?
Shaheen: I've been always interested in such networks with women. Since getting my undergraduate degree in Canada, I have been part of a Women in Engineering program because I've always been a minority. Here, yes, I think that's the main purpose of the program. But the network should not only be for women.... We should expand it because the world is not only women out there. We should extend our hand to help men also.... We should focus on the development of relationships between females and males in the workplace so that both can work together and prosper together.
Knowledge@Wharton: I have never been to Dubai. But I get the sense that you're one of a rare breed of women in that area. You are very educated, very articulate. You've had work experiences in Canada, in the U.S. You're going to be working in Chicago when you leave. But in Dubai you are definitely a minority in terms of the women there, correct?
Shaheen: It's not true, but thank you for the compliment. There are a lot of cosmopolitan girls there and ladies. Actually, I'm the fourth one in this program from my company and the number is increasing. As I mentioned earlier, I was in an exchange program similar to this but it was both males and females with American businessmen and women. The observation was the same. Again, you would be surprised that we have females who are like those you mentioned -- cosmopolitan, speaking good English, having exposure to the world. I think the world is getting smaller. Dubai is where everything is happening nowadays.
Knowledge@Wharton: Right, it is very cosmopolitan itself.
Shaheen: It is a very cosmopolitan city. Again, as I mentioned, exposure to [different] cultures is very high in the Middle East. It's close to Europe. It's close to China, India, the Far East. I think the geographical location really helps.
Knowledge@Wharton: But is it generational? How old are you?
Shaheen: I'm 25.
Knowledge@Wharton: Do you feel that women in your generation are having a very different experience than women who are 45 or 50?
Shaheen: I [believe that's true] everywhere in the world. Even here, the current generation is different than their parents. Yes, we're developing with the media, and with the technology. We watch "American Idol." We watch your TV shows. We watch "Oprah," "Dr. Phil"...
Knowledge@Wharton: Is that a good thing?
Shaheen: I don't know about that. [We watch] "Sex in the City." So I guess it's just that the exposure is getting higher and higher.... [Also], it's because the media to a certain degree exposes you to the American streets, environments and buildings. So when we went to New York, most of us felt that we had there before. We saw the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You feel that you've been on the streets of New York even if you've never been there because you always see it on TV. So that's what increasing the exposure; it's the technology. Believe it or not, the political problems are playing a good part here because we have to learn about what's happening out there in the world. Most of the political situation in the Middle East is highly related to the U.S. So that's why we're highly exposed and are learning a lot about you.
Knowledge@Wharton: What about Gaza City, where you went to high school? Is that as sophisticated and developed as Dubai in terms of opportunities for women?
Shaheen: Opportunities for women in Gaza I would say are as bad as the opportunities for men. It's not because of [gender].... Unfortunately, the political situation is really bad down there. As I mentioned earlier, they don't have the opportunity to [be] exposed [to other places] or to travel as much. But before the political situation deteriorated in 2001 was when I first started my exchange program. When I was 16, I was in a Norwegian exchange program, so we had the Norwegian students come into Gaza and we traveled to Oslo. So when the political situation was stable, yes, Gaza was doing well. I don't think it's fair to compare it to Dubai because Dubai is, relatively speaking, stable. It's safe. There is no war there. The political situation is stable. Whereas for Gaza it is not, but hopefully it will be one day.
Knowledge@Wharton: You've probably come from a very supportive family as well. Is that correct? Your parents have been supportive so you don't face any disapproval about what you're doing or where you're going or anything like that?
Shaheen: Of course. All the way.
Knowledge@Wharton: Do you live alone in Dubai?
Shaheen: No, I live with them. Actually, they moved to come and live with me. They were supporting me all the way. When I was in Canada, my mom and my dad would take turns to come and visit me. They were living in Gaza so sometimes they would be back and forth between Gaza and Toronto. And then when I made the decision to move to Dubai, we thought that it was time for us to be together. So that's why we moved all of us to Dubai.
Knowledge@Wharton: Is it fairly common for young professionals to live with their parents?
Shaheen: Yes. I guess the Arabic culture is like most of the Eastern cultures. They are very much family oriented. It's not very common for girls to move out of their family houses, even guys, until they get married. That's just how the culture is.
Knowledge@Wharton: So what are your plans now for the next few years? You're going to Chicago?
Shaheen: For three months.
Knowledge@Wharton: What will you be doing there?
Shaheen: I heard that I'll be working in green initiatives, which I'm very excited about because that's what my graduation project here at Wharton is about. And I'll be working on the submission for the Olympics 2016.
Knowledge@Wharton: That's terrific.
Shaheen: How exciting is that? I'm very excited because I think I'll be having higher exposure to this green technology, which is booming as well in the Middle East, especially in Dubai. And afterwards, I always had the plan that I wanted to go for my MBA. That's why I was very excited about this opportunity [at] Wharton, which was always my dream school.... Now it's time for me to start working on my GMAT.
Knowledge@Wharton: So you plan to apply to graduate school?
Shaheen: Correct.
Knowledge@Wharton: Will that be after you complete your work in Chicago?
Shaheen: Yes. I'm planning to enjoy the experience to the maximum and not study while I'm there.
Knowledge@Wharton: What would you like to do after business school?
Shaheen: In the long term, I would like to work in the government and get some experience in the public administration sector.
Knowledge@Wharton: Where?
Shaheen: In Dubai.... Then afterwards I would like to teach and become a professor.
Knowledge@Wharton: An engineering professor? A business professor?
Shaheen: I haven't worked much with [engineering]. I would like to teach in a business school. I would like to teach an MBA class.
Knowledge@Wharton: So, who knows? We could see you back here sometime.... I have one final question. There's a story in The Wall Street Journal today talking about the steep declines in countries around the world, specifically Mexico, Germany and Japan, and how they are getting the brunt of this financial collapse. Are you feeling the impact of the financial crisis at all in Dubai?
Shaheen: I cannot deny that this financial crisis has hit the whole world hard. Dubai is a very global city, a cosmopolitan city. And it's very highly related to the [rest of] the world economy. So, yes, it does affect investments in Dubai. However, the government is being very [supportive]. About a month ago, the government of Abu Dhabi issued bonds for 30 billion Dirham, which is almost $10 billion, to support the economy in the UAE. And since then, the situation – I've been here a month so far and I'm always in touch with my colleagues to understand the situation and I read the news -- is starting to recover. So some companies are starting to hire again. Some [employees] are receiving their bonuses and their [annual] appraisals. So, yes, I think we've been affected. But also I think we're having a stronger recovery there because the government has the funds to support it.
Knowledge@Wharton: Thank you for joining us and good luck in Chicago.
Shaheen: Thank you. It was my pleasure.
Sheikha Fatima sponsor of UAE women's achievments in use of technology
2009-06-24 13:25:28
WAM ABU DHABI, June 24th, 2009: UAE women have made remarkable achievements employing technology in service of the community, thanks to the efforts and generous support of H.H Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak President of the UAE Women's General Union (WGU) The GWU was among the first UAE institutions to use the latest tehnology to empower women, further advance their status and enable them take part in the process of building the nation.
Under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima, GWU, in November 2006, launched Women in Technology programme which serves as a perfect example of a public private partnership program designed to empower women through e-literacy.
Women in Technology is a regional public-private partnership program funded by the U.S. Department of State's Middle East Partnership Initiative --or MEPI--and works in partnership with the General Women's Union and its several partners throughout the Emirates.
Considered as one of the most successful women's training programs in the region, Women in Technology for the Middle East and North Africa seeks to empower women and youth, create educational opportunities, and foster economic reform through helping women acquire skills in business planning and entrepreneurship and learn a wide-range of computer programs through Microsoft's Unlimited Potential training.
Sheikha Fatima has extended strong support to Women in Technology participants to help them polish their communication, leadership and business writing skills. The participants join a network through which they connect, engage in community service activities and share resources to help them to advance in their careers or enter the job market.
On remarks last April in Abu Dhabi, U.S Ambassaor Richard G. Olson, Jr. saluted Sheikha Fatima her patronage and unwavering support for this program, and her dedication to empowering women throughout the UAE, as well as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi for his support for women's issues. Olson also commended the tremendous work and accomplishments of the Women in Technology Program in the United Arab Emirates. The efforts of the General Women's Union, the Institute of International Education, an American not for profit institution, and Microsoft were also also highlighted by Ambassador Olsen.
The United Arab Emirates, he said, continues to show its dedication to improving the lives of its people. Over the past 37 years, the Emirates' investment in improving education and effectively eliminating illiteracy, improving and providing health care to its citizens, and adapting to rapid change while also maintaining its traditions and cultural values, should be commended.
Sheikha Fatima spared no efforts to supoport the use of technology as a tool to enhance women's lives, ans this represents just one example of the cross-cultural work the Emirates is doing to show its commitment to being a responsible global citizen and creating a better future for its people.
GWU is actively supporting MEPI, a unique inititaive in that it focuses on partnerships to build bridges between the United States and the Middle East through creative projects working to expand political participation, strengthen civil society and the rule of law, empower women and youth, create educational opportunities, and foster economic reform.
MEPI projects reach out directly to Non Governmental Organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and other local groups, as well as governments, in providing direct support to the people of the region in addressing locally identified priorities and opportunities.
The Women in Technology project in the UAE is a perfect example of a public private partnership program designed to empower women - in this case, through "e-literacy." Women acquire skills in Business Planning and Entrepreneurship and learn a wide-range of computer programs through Microsoft's Unlimited Potential training. Women in Technology participants also polish their communication, leadership and business writing skills. The participants join a network through which they connect, engage in community service activities and share resources to help them to advance in their careers or enter the job market.
The program also provides tools and intensive instruction and coaching to local partner organizations, such as the Western Region Development Council here in the UAE. This enables them to operate their training centers on a long-term basis. The program provides support for a cost-recovery business model and reduces partners' dependence on external sources of funding.
This is very powerful. And it ensures that partner organizations have the knowledge and tools to expand their reach and ability to serve women in their communities long into the future, in other words, sustainability.
The Women in Technology program has been implemented in collaboration with fifty (50) local partner organizations across nine countries in the Middle East and North Africa. To date, the program has trained more than 6,000 women in the region. The program is managed by the Institute of International Education, a not-for-profit organization based in the United States. The Institute has been developing and administering high quality international education, training and leadership programs worldwide since 1919.
In the private sector, Microsoft Corporation has been a generous supporter and partner of Women in Technology throughout the region. Microsoft has provided more than $1 million in cash, equipment and in-kind contributions to the program since 2005. In 2008, Microsoft recognized Women in Technology with the "Outstanding Partnership Award" for its innovative partnership model between local and international organizations and the private sector.
Microsoft continues to serve as a model in its commitment to empower women by providing knowledge and skills through its high-quality, globally-recognized training. In addition to donating curricula packages to all fifty partner organizations in the region, Microsoft has funded the preparation of nearly 250 trainers to deliver its Unlimited Potential curriculum. Microsoft Unlimited Potential is a global initiative designed to narrow the technology skills gap and aid global workforce development. Without Microsoft's ongoing partnership and support to Women in Technology throughout the Middle East and North Africa, this program would not be possible.
GWU is a lead local partner of MEPI since the program was launched in the UAE in 2006. It has been a pioneer in women's development in the UAE under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
The General Women's Union's commitment to the partnership has allowed Women in Technology to gain recognition and reach women well beyond Abu Dhabi. Due to this strong foundation, Women in Technology was able last year to enter into a formal partnership with the Western Region Development Council, which has provided the extensive financial and logistical support needed to open new training centers for women in the Western Region.
WAM/MMYS
WAM ABU DHABI, June 24th, 2009: UAE women have made remarkable achievements employing technology in service of the community, thanks to the efforts and generous support of H.H Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak President of the UAE Women's General Union (WGU) The GWU was among the first UAE institutions to use the latest tehnology to empower women, further advance their status and enable them take part in the process of building the nation.
Under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima, GWU, in November 2006, launched Women in Technology programme which serves as a perfect example of a public private partnership program designed to empower women through e-literacy.
Women in Technology is a regional public-private partnership program funded by the U.S. Department of State's Middle East Partnership Initiative --or MEPI--and works in partnership with the General Women's Union and its several partners throughout the Emirates.
Considered as one of the most successful women's training programs in the region, Women in Technology for the Middle East and North Africa seeks to empower women and youth, create educational opportunities, and foster economic reform through helping women acquire skills in business planning and entrepreneurship and learn a wide-range of computer programs through Microsoft's Unlimited Potential training.
Sheikha Fatima has extended strong support to Women in Technology participants to help them polish their communication, leadership and business writing skills. The participants join a network through which they connect, engage in community service activities and share resources to help them to advance in their careers or enter the job market.
On remarks last April in Abu Dhabi, U.S Ambassaor Richard G. Olson, Jr. saluted Sheikha Fatima her patronage and unwavering support for this program, and her dedication to empowering women throughout the UAE, as well as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi for his support for women's issues. Olson also commended the tremendous work and accomplishments of the Women in Technology Program in the United Arab Emirates. The efforts of the General Women's Union, the Institute of International Education, an American not for profit institution, and Microsoft were also also highlighted by Ambassador Olsen.
The United Arab Emirates, he said, continues to show its dedication to improving the lives of its people. Over the past 37 years, the Emirates' investment in improving education and effectively eliminating illiteracy, improving and providing health care to its citizens, and adapting to rapid change while also maintaining its traditions and cultural values, should be commended.
Sheikha Fatima spared no efforts to supoport the use of technology as a tool to enhance women's lives, ans this represents just one example of the cross-cultural work the Emirates is doing to show its commitment to being a responsible global citizen and creating a better future for its people.
GWU is actively supporting MEPI, a unique inititaive in that it focuses on partnerships to build bridges between the United States and the Middle East through creative projects working to expand political participation, strengthen civil society and the rule of law, empower women and youth, create educational opportunities, and foster economic reform.
MEPI projects reach out directly to Non Governmental Organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and other local groups, as well as governments, in providing direct support to the people of the region in addressing locally identified priorities and opportunities.
The Women in Technology project in the UAE is a perfect example of a public private partnership program designed to empower women - in this case, through "e-literacy." Women acquire skills in Business Planning and Entrepreneurship and learn a wide-range of computer programs through Microsoft's Unlimited Potential training. Women in Technology participants also polish their communication, leadership and business writing skills. The participants join a network through which they connect, engage in community service activities and share resources to help them to advance in their careers or enter the job market.
The program also provides tools and intensive instruction and coaching to local partner organizations, such as the Western Region Development Council here in the UAE. This enables them to operate their training centers on a long-term basis. The program provides support for a cost-recovery business model and reduces partners' dependence on external sources of funding.
This is very powerful. And it ensures that partner organizations have the knowledge and tools to expand their reach and ability to serve women in their communities long into the future, in other words, sustainability.
The Women in Technology program has been implemented in collaboration with fifty (50) local partner organizations across nine countries in the Middle East and North Africa. To date, the program has trained more than 6,000 women in the region. The program is managed by the Institute of International Education, a not-for-profit organization based in the United States. The Institute has been developing and administering high quality international education, training and leadership programs worldwide since 1919.
In the private sector, Microsoft Corporation has been a generous supporter and partner of Women in Technology throughout the region. Microsoft has provided more than $1 million in cash, equipment and in-kind contributions to the program since 2005. In 2008, Microsoft recognized Women in Technology with the "Outstanding Partnership Award" for its innovative partnership model between local and international organizations and the private sector.
Microsoft continues to serve as a model in its commitment to empower women by providing knowledge and skills through its high-quality, globally-recognized training. In addition to donating curricula packages to all fifty partner organizations in the region, Microsoft has funded the preparation of nearly 250 trainers to deliver its Unlimited Potential curriculum. Microsoft Unlimited Potential is a global initiative designed to narrow the technology skills gap and aid global workforce development. Without Microsoft's ongoing partnership and support to Women in Technology throughout the Middle East and North Africa, this program would not be possible.
GWU is a lead local partner of MEPI since the program was launched in the UAE in 2006. It has been a pioneer in women's development in the UAE under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
The General Women's Union's commitment to the partnership has allowed Women in Technology to gain recognition and reach women well beyond Abu Dhabi. Due to this strong foundation, Women in Technology was able last year to enter into a formal partnership with the Western Region Development Council, which has provided the extensive financial and logistical support needed to open new training centers for women in the Western Region.
WAM/MMYS
Friday, June 5, 2009
UAE: UAE is determined to continue in the path of women revivalism
2009-06-04 20:52:33
WAM Geneva, Jun 04th, 2009 (WAM): The United Arab Emirates reiterated today before the world community, its determination to continue the march in the path of women revivalism.
Addressing the annual full-day discussion of the Human Rights Council on women's human rights today, the permanent representative of the UAE at the United Nations Office in Geneva Obeid Salem Al Za'abi said that since the formation of the UAE under the presidency of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the leadership of the country was fully aware of the fact the woman is an equal partner in the process of national development.
The leadership of the country, inspired by its faith in gender equality, adopted a strategy of empowering women in cultural, social and economic fields, Al Za'abi said.
In an intervention made during the discussion, Al Za'abi portrayed how UAE worked to achieve the gender equality in rights and duties through guaranteeing women their right to ownership, employment, social security, economic and financial management, education, healthcare, earning, as well as many other rights.
In our country, the strong presence of women in the leadership roles and positions of decision making is not a new trend, but is a continuation of the march led by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak though her ardent work for the renaissance of the women, said Al Za'abi.
He briefly shed light on various institutions in the UAE established with an objective of empowering women to play the equal role in the nation building. Al Za'abi drew a few examples such as the General Women's Union (GWU), which was founded by HH Sheikh Fatima and the Family Development Foundation (FDF).
Women in UAE holds four seats in the federal cabinet and fills nine seats in a total of 40 seats in the Federal National Council, the country's supreme legislative body. This in addition to a large number of key posts women hold in various ministries and local governments. More over, women represent 59 percent of the total work force in the UAE and enjoy equal opportunity in the economic life, Al Za'abi pointed out.
He also asserted the country's commitment to continue this march under the leadership of President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The Human Rights Council's discussion on women's human rights was entitled equality before the law: concrete steps to further women's equality. The discussion focused on non-discrimination in the law, with a view to identifying concrete steps to further women's equality. The first part addressed institutional perspectives on equality before the law and the second part presented a wider perspective from academia and civil society.
Opening the discussion, Navi Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said international human rights treaties prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex and included guarantees to ensure that women and men enjoyed their civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights on a basis of equality.
Despite this perception, global and national realities indicated that there was a wide gulf between international legal obligations and their implementation. Not only did inequality in the legal, civil, economic, political and social arenas violate international obligations, but it also compounded discrimination against women.
When race, religion, ethnicity, poverty, disability, social status, and other forms of discrimination were factored in, then the picture was one of even greater disparity. Moreover, inequality created a climate where violence against women and girls was considered acceptable.
Speaking in the first part of the discussion were Chile, India, Nigeria, Paraguay for MERCOSUR, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Norway, Czech Republic for the European Union, Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Switzerland, Philippines for ASEAN, Slovenia, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Russian Federation, Lithuania, Iceland, Turkey, Yemen, Kazakhstan, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Algeria, China, Indonesia, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina and South Africa.
Also speaking were the Equality and Human Rights Commission of Great Britain and the National Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, national human rights institutions. Non-governmental organizations speaking were the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, Equality Now, Amnesty International and Women's International Democratic Federation.
The following non-governmental organizations also took the floor: Center for Women's Global Leadership, Worldwide Organization for Women, International Federation of Human Rights and Interfaith International.
International human rights treaties prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex and included guarantees to ensure that women and men enjoyed their civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights on a basis of equality.
WAM/AB
WAM Geneva, Jun 04th, 2009 (WAM): The United Arab Emirates reiterated today before the world community, its determination to continue the march in the path of women revivalism.
Addressing the annual full-day discussion of the Human Rights Council on women's human rights today, the permanent representative of the UAE at the United Nations Office in Geneva Obeid Salem Al Za'abi said that since the formation of the UAE under the presidency of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the leadership of the country was fully aware of the fact the woman is an equal partner in the process of national development.
The leadership of the country, inspired by its faith in gender equality, adopted a strategy of empowering women in cultural, social and economic fields, Al Za'abi said.
In an intervention made during the discussion, Al Za'abi portrayed how UAE worked to achieve the gender equality in rights and duties through guaranteeing women their right to ownership, employment, social security, economic and financial management, education, healthcare, earning, as well as many other rights.
In our country, the strong presence of women in the leadership roles and positions of decision making is not a new trend, but is a continuation of the march led by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak though her ardent work for the renaissance of the women, said Al Za'abi.
He briefly shed light on various institutions in the UAE established with an objective of empowering women to play the equal role in the nation building. Al Za'abi drew a few examples such as the General Women's Union (GWU), which was founded by HH Sheikh Fatima and the Family Development Foundation (FDF).
Women in UAE holds four seats in the federal cabinet and fills nine seats in a total of 40 seats in the Federal National Council, the country's supreme legislative body. This in addition to a large number of key posts women hold in various ministries and local governments. More over, women represent 59 percent of the total work force in the UAE and enjoy equal opportunity in the economic life, Al Za'abi pointed out.
He also asserted the country's commitment to continue this march under the leadership of President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The Human Rights Council's discussion on women's human rights was entitled equality before the law: concrete steps to further women's equality. The discussion focused on non-discrimination in the law, with a view to identifying concrete steps to further women's equality. The first part addressed institutional perspectives on equality before the law and the second part presented a wider perspective from academia and civil society.
Opening the discussion, Navi Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said international human rights treaties prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex and included guarantees to ensure that women and men enjoyed their civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights on a basis of equality.
Despite this perception, global and national realities indicated that there was a wide gulf between international legal obligations and their implementation. Not only did inequality in the legal, civil, economic, political and social arenas violate international obligations, but it also compounded discrimination against women.
When race, religion, ethnicity, poverty, disability, social status, and other forms of discrimination were factored in, then the picture was one of even greater disparity. Moreover, inequality created a climate where violence against women and girls was considered acceptable.
Speaking in the first part of the discussion were Chile, India, Nigeria, Paraguay for MERCOSUR, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Norway, Czech Republic for the European Union, Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Switzerland, Philippines for ASEAN, Slovenia, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Russian Federation, Lithuania, Iceland, Turkey, Yemen, Kazakhstan, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Algeria, China, Indonesia, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina and South Africa.
Also speaking were the Equality and Human Rights Commission of Great Britain and the National Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, national human rights institutions. Non-governmental organizations speaking were the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies, Equality Now, Amnesty International and Women's International Democratic Federation.
The following non-governmental organizations also took the floor: Center for Women's Global Leadership, Worldwide Organization for Women, International Federation of Human Rights and Interfaith International.
International human rights treaties prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex and included guarantees to ensure that women and men enjoyed their civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights on a basis of equality.
WAM/AB
Monday, May 18, 2009
UAE: UNICEF to base child protection programme at GWU
WAM Abu Dhabi, 18th May 2009 (WAM) -- The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has taken the premises of the UAE General Women's Union (GWU) as venue of its child protection programme.
The move falls under the cooperation agreement signed between the GWU and UNICEF.
Meanwhile, Noura Al Suweidi, GWU Director, received today Dr Ayman Abu Laban, UNICEF representative to the Gulf region, and Lara Hussein the UNICEF's Child Protection Officer in the UAE.
Al Suweidi said the GWU was ready to offer all possible assistance to enable the programme carry out strategy towards welfare of children being executed by the GWU with local stakeholders with assistance of the UNICEF.
The move falls under the cooperation agreement signed between the GWU and UNICEF.
Meanwhile, Noura Al Suweidi, GWU Director, received today Dr Ayman Abu Laban, UNICEF representative to the Gulf region, and Lara Hussein the UNICEF's Child Protection Officer in the UAE.
Al Suweidi said the GWU was ready to offer all possible assistance to enable the programme carry out strategy towards welfare of children being executed by the GWU with local stakeholders with assistance of the UNICEF.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
UAE: Al-Khaleej Studies Center Panel on Women's Organizations
In April 2009, Al-Khaleej Studies Center organized a panel on the reality of women organizations in the UAE and ways to increase their effectiveness and outreach to all society sectors especially youth, to channel their interests towards volunteerism and more civic activism. The panel was chaired by our own Dr. Fatema Al Sayegh and included opinions of several UAE women leaders and activists. Participants in the panel included:
Ahlam Al Lamki, GWU
Amal Belhoul, Psychologist, ‘Watani’ program. (Watani means my country)
Amira Tariam, Editor of Kul Al Usra magazine
Halima Shikshik, RAK Women Organization
Moza Al Taghi, RAK Women Organization
Dr. Hessa Lootah, Professor, UAE University
Sarah bin Karam, Head of Sharjah Women Organziation
Salma Al Junaibi, GWU
Afra Al Mansouri, Head of Family Development Foundation, Shahama
Fatima Al Qubeisi, Family Development Foundation, Al Wathba
Sheikha Majd Saud Al Qassimi, Deputy Director of Sharjah Women Union
The session concluded with the following recommendations:
- Allocate a political seat that represents women organizations that would rotate every 2 or 4 years
- The importance of spreading a culture of social work and increase contact with youth
- Focus on studies and statistics that identify flaws in the work of the organizations as well as proper mechanisms to address these flaws.
- Strengthen relationships between different organizations and create a real partnership between civil society and non-profit organizations
- One women union that would be the umbrella of all women organizations in the country
- More media attention to the role and activities of women organizations
Ahlam Al Lamki, GWU
Amal Belhoul, Psychologist, ‘Watani’ program. (Watani means my country)
Amira Tariam, Editor of Kul Al Usra magazine
Halima Shikshik, RAK Women Organization
Moza Al Taghi, RAK Women Organization
Dr. Hessa Lootah, Professor, UAE University
Sarah bin Karam, Head of Sharjah Women Organziation
Salma Al Junaibi, GWU
Afra Al Mansouri, Head of Family Development Foundation, Shahama
Fatima Al Qubeisi, Family Development Foundation, Al Wathba
Sheikha Majd Saud Al Qassimi, Deputy Director of Sharjah Women Union
The session concluded with the following recommendations:
- Allocate a political seat that represents women organizations that would rotate every 2 or 4 years
- The importance of spreading a culture of social work and increase contact with youth
- Focus on studies and statistics that identify flaws in the work of the organizations as well as proper mechanisms to address these flaws.
- Strengthen relationships between different organizations and create a real partnership between civil society and non-profit organizations
- One women union that would be the umbrella of all women organizations in the country
- More media attention to the role and activities of women organizations
Thursday, April 16, 2009
UAE: Specialised courts for capital
The National
Marten Youssef
ABU DHABI // The capital has launched a major reform of its court system to cope with rising global investment in the emirate.
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department announced yesterday that it would create special courts specifically dedicated to contract and construction disputes, medical liability and negligence cases, banking and finance issues, insurance claims and compensation demands.
“As investment in Abu Dhabi has doubled over the past year, it is necessary to develop the courts as well,” said a statement from the office of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and Minister for Presidential Affairs.
The purpose of these specialised courts, it said, is to have judges, public prosecutors and lawyers become proficient in distinct kinds of cases. The Judicial Department believes this will “create an effective judiciary that is independent, transparent and efficient in solving cases with the same nature”.
The ministerial decree set certain days of operation for these courts. Details can be obtained on the department’s website: www.adjd.gov.ae.
The undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, Sultan Saeed al Badi, said the changes were meant to gain public confidence in the emirate’s judiciary.
“Justice is the principal pillar in achieving the Government’s strategy and promoting investment and growth in the economy,” Mr al Badi said. “These new courts are the first of a kind in the emirate, and we have already started enacting these courts and expect that more of these specialised courts will be created as needed.”
Abdul Kader al Hathami, a lawyer who has been practising in Abu Dhabi for the past 26 years, applauded the decision to create specialised courts.
“This will give the public greater confidence in the judges’ knowledge of specific cases,” he said.
“Its impact will be seen over the next year.”
In 2008, courts across Abu Dhabi received 59,109 cases and claimed to have dealt with 99.99 per cent of these.
Mr al Hathami said there was a risk, however, that the focus on completing cases could shift the priority from quality to quantity.
“I feel like there is a rush to finish all of the court cases,” he said. “It is as if they are having a race with themselves.
“It looks good when they announce their expedience, but in my opinion this can affect the quality of justice if they just focus on speed.”
Since the creation of the Judicial Department in May 2007, officials have pledged to commit to a programme of modernisation, declaring transparency as one of its pillars.
The department has announced several modernisation efforts since its inception. Night courts were created to further speed the litigation process.
Courts were established throughout the emirate, including Delma Island. Notary public offices were set up in remote areas to serve smaller communities. Millions of cases, past and present, were electronically registered to do away with the handwritten case registration.
A new case management system was set up last month to allow judges and lawyers to electronically access cases with evidence and documents available on computers.
Last year, the department announced that some high-profile positions would, for the first time, be filled by women.
Abu Dhabi appointed Kholoud al Dhaheri as the first female judge and several women were subsequently appointed to the public prosecution office. Specialised public prosecutors were assigned to handle financial crimes. The Judicial Department has also sent and received delegates to and from the US, Canada and Singapore to exchange ideas.
Marten Youssef
ABU DHABI // The capital has launched a major reform of its court system to cope with rising global investment in the emirate.
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department announced yesterday that it would create special courts specifically dedicated to contract and construction disputes, medical liability and negligence cases, banking and finance issues, insurance claims and compensation demands.
“As investment in Abu Dhabi has doubled over the past year, it is necessary to develop the courts as well,” said a statement from the office of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and Minister for Presidential Affairs.
The purpose of these specialised courts, it said, is to have judges, public prosecutors and lawyers become proficient in distinct kinds of cases. The Judicial Department believes this will “create an effective judiciary that is independent, transparent and efficient in solving cases with the same nature”.
The ministerial decree set certain days of operation for these courts. Details can be obtained on the department’s website: www.adjd.gov.ae.
The undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, Sultan Saeed al Badi, said the changes were meant to gain public confidence in the emirate’s judiciary.
“Justice is the principal pillar in achieving the Government’s strategy and promoting investment and growth in the economy,” Mr al Badi said. “These new courts are the first of a kind in the emirate, and we have already started enacting these courts and expect that more of these specialised courts will be created as needed.”
Abdul Kader al Hathami, a lawyer who has been practising in Abu Dhabi for the past 26 years, applauded the decision to create specialised courts.
“This will give the public greater confidence in the judges’ knowledge of specific cases,” he said.
“Its impact will be seen over the next year.”
In 2008, courts across Abu Dhabi received 59,109 cases and claimed to have dealt with 99.99 per cent of these.
Mr al Hathami said there was a risk, however, that the focus on completing cases could shift the priority from quality to quantity.
“I feel like there is a rush to finish all of the court cases,” he said. “It is as if they are having a race with themselves.
“It looks good when they announce their expedience, but in my opinion this can affect the quality of justice if they just focus on speed.”
Since the creation of the Judicial Department in May 2007, officials have pledged to commit to a programme of modernisation, declaring transparency as one of its pillars.
The department has announced several modernisation efforts since its inception. Night courts were created to further speed the litigation process.
Courts were established throughout the emirate, including Delma Island. Notary public offices were set up in remote areas to serve smaller communities. Millions of cases, past and present, were electronically registered to do away with the handwritten case registration.
A new case management system was set up last month to allow judges and lawyers to electronically access cases with evidence and documents available on computers.
Last year, the department announced that some high-profile positions would, for the first time, be filled by women.
Abu Dhabi appointed Kholoud al Dhaheri as the first female judge and several women were subsequently appointed to the public prosecution office. Specialised public prosecutors were assigned to handle financial crimes. The Judicial Department has also sent and received delegates to and from the US, Canada and Singapore to exchange ideas.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
UAE: UAE General Women’s Union Praises MEPI
With the presence of UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and representatives of the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) and foreign ambassadors, the UAE General Women Union (GWU) launched UNIFEM's Biennial Global Report, Progress
of the World's Women 2008/2009 last week. The report features new data and calls for
stronger accountability systems to move from commitments on women's rights. During the launch ceremony, the Legal Adviser of the GWU told the audience that 600 Emirati women were empowered through MEPI-sponsored programs and cooperation, especially thru the MEPI Women in Technology (WIT) program.
UAEG representatives expressed willingness to cooperate with MEPI to develop programs
on countering domestic violence, while UNIFEM's Deputy Director said they want to learn from and cooperate with MEPI programs related to women's political empowerment,
especially programs dedicated to further empower Arab woman MPs. UNIFEM has a project
entitled “Arab Women Parliamentarians.”
of the World's Women 2008/2009 last week. The report features new data and calls for
stronger accountability systems to move from commitments on women's rights. During the launch ceremony, the Legal Adviser of the GWU told the audience that 600 Emirati women were empowered through MEPI-sponsored programs and cooperation, especially thru the MEPI Women in Technology (WIT) program.
UAEG representatives expressed willingness to cooperate with MEPI to develop programs
on countering domestic violence, while UNIFEM's Deputy Director said they want to learn from and cooperate with MEPI programs related to women's political empowerment,
especially programs dedicated to further empower Arab woman MPs. UNIFEM has a project
entitled “Arab Women Parliamentarians.”
Sunday, March 8, 2009
UAE: Profile of Sheikha Bint Khalid Al Qasimi
The Face of Power in the UAE is a Woman and Her Name is Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi
In celebration of International Women's Month I want to be selfish and talk about women who redefine what it is to be a woman in charge and in control. These women are murdering stereotypes leading on their own terms for the greater good of society. These women are bold. They have brass ovaries. They are brainy, beautiful and possess a bandwidth of power that demands attention. The first woman I am going to profile is Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade for the United Arab Emirates.
I first heard about Sheikha Lubna during the Dubai Ports Crisis in February of 2006.
The issue was over the sale of port management businesses in six major U.S. seaports to a company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There was concern of whether this sale would compromise port security. I remember how American citizens became very vocal raising serious concerns about how and why the United States would do such a thing since Americans were still suffering from the sting and psychological impact of 9/11 and were also very confused and frankly racist about Arab people.
While then President George W. Bush fought hard to keep the sale alive, he did not have the political capital to stop Congress from ultimately delaying the sale.
During the crisis in came IT specialist Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, then Minister of Economy. One of Forbes' 100 most powerful women, she was the first woman to be appointed cabinet Minister for the UAE in 2004, this petite woman with expressive eyes and proudly wearing her signature designer silk scarves, intimidated CNN's Wolf Blitzer during his visit to Dubai to see what he could sniff out about this controversy. Blitzer under estimated her, and he immediately discovered that the Sheikha was nothing to shake -- with quick responses, wit and perfect elocution she was a force to be reckoned with.
Wolf Blitzer: What do you know that you can share with American public that will reassure the US public, 60% plus who oppose.
Sheikha Lubna: This is a business deal. There is an impact on employment that will be positive. This is not the first port that DPW will manage. It is a world class port operator.
Wolf Blitzer: UAE recognized the Taliban. Two 9/11 hijackers came from here. Nuclear materials from AQ Khan's network were shipped through here. Money laundering for terrorists before and after 9/11 has been traced here. How do you reply to these objections?
Sheikha Lubna: We, the UAE, did not share the Taliban's ideology as evidenced by the fact that I, a woman, am the Economics Minister. We later broke relations with them. Two hijackers did come from here. Terrorists are really multi-national. Two don't make the UAE....
At that time, Sheikha Lubna had the toughest job in the cabinet. She was the face of the entire UAE handling a public relations nightmare. But, as we say in America's hood, "She handled her business." She handled it so well that Sheikha Lubna received a number of key recognitions, awards and received a major bump up being named Minister of Foreign Trade in early 2008. Her appointments paved the way for three other women cabinet Ministers as well as a growing host of young highly talented woman Ambassadors with considerable clout and power in their own right. She is the forerunner of the women's empowerment in the UAE; influencing positive change in the entire Muslim and Arab world.
Sheikha Lubna represents the 21st Century woman; not just as an Arab who would be ignorantly deemed by the West as an anomaly. She is cutting through veils of discrimination with serious substance, style and a smile. Recently at a private luncheon in Hartford, Connecticut, she told an intimate room of 40 guests that when she first received the call and offered the job of Minister of Economy, she instinctively replied, "I have to ask my mother first." When she mentions her mother, her face softens. For a split second, she becomes a little girl again, but she snaps right back to Minister in an instant.
While in Hartford, Her Excellency received another first becoming the first woman to become an honorary member of the Syracuse 8 -- "Eight African-American athletes at Syracuse University boycotted the 1970 football season in a collective effort to demand change and promote racial equality within the University football program....." After 36 years of protest, another woman of power Chancellor Nancy Cantor officially apologized for SU's history of racism awarding these men the Chancellor's Medal of Honor.
Sheikha Lubna is a blue blooded Princess -- the Qasimi family heads two Emirates in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. She does not do any of dainty stepping however. She is always thinking and busy on her blackberry sending and receiving messages to and from leaders around the globe, she knows in her position she has fully replaced a size 10 man's shoe with a pair of pumps.
During the world's economic turmoil; her job has become even more paramount to the UAE. In Davos in January, she took part in an economic forum and held court in her suite having high level meetings. Literally nearly every week of her life, she has major engagements with world leaders such as Medvedev and Putin of Russia as well as her counterparts such as Lord Digby Jones, the UK Government's Minister of State for Trade. Having studied in the United States during her undergraduate years, she has a special love for the United States. She has been a great Diplomatic bridge between the two nations.
Because she wears a Hijab and is from an Islamic Federation with hereditary male rulers; a lot of us in the West actually search for where her power might be limited, but we are limited. The fact is this woman knows her own power and flies with the flag of the United Arab Emirates as her cape.
-- Huffington Post Blog
In celebration of International Women's Month I want to be selfish and talk about women who redefine what it is to be a woman in charge and in control. These women are murdering stereotypes leading on their own terms for the greater good of society. These women are bold. They have brass ovaries. They are brainy, beautiful and possess a bandwidth of power that demands attention. The first woman I am going to profile is Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade for the United Arab Emirates.
I first heard about Sheikha Lubna during the Dubai Ports Crisis in February of 2006.
The issue was over the sale of port management businesses in six major U.S. seaports to a company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There was concern of whether this sale would compromise port security. I remember how American citizens became very vocal raising serious concerns about how and why the United States would do such a thing since Americans were still suffering from the sting and psychological impact of 9/11 and were also very confused and frankly racist about Arab people.
While then President George W. Bush fought hard to keep the sale alive, he did not have the political capital to stop Congress from ultimately delaying the sale.
During the crisis in came IT specialist Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, then Minister of Economy. One of Forbes' 100 most powerful women, she was the first woman to be appointed cabinet Minister for the UAE in 2004, this petite woman with expressive eyes and proudly wearing her signature designer silk scarves, intimidated CNN's Wolf Blitzer during his visit to Dubai to see what he could sniff out about this controversy. Blitzer under estimated her, and he immediately discovered that the Sheikha was nothing to shake -- with quick responses, wit and perfect elocution she was a force to be reckoned with.
Wolf Blitzer: What do you know that you can share with American public that will reassure the US public, 60% plus who oppose.
Sheikha Lubna: This is a business deal. There is an impact on employment that will be positive. This is not the first port that DPW will manage. It is a world class port operator.
Wolf Blitzer: UAE recognized the Taliban. Two 9/11 hijackers came from here. Nuclear materials from AQ Khan's network were shipped through here. Money laundering for terrorists before and after 9/11 has been traced here. How do you reply to these objections?
Sheikha Lubna: We, the UAE, did not share the Taliban's ideology as evidenced by the fact that I, a woman, am the Economics Minister. We later broke relations with them. Two hijackers did come from here. Terrorists are really multi-national. Two don't make the UAE....
At that time, Sheikha Lubna had the toughest job in the cabinet. She was the face of the entire UAE handling a public relations nightmare. But, as we say in America's hood, "She handled her business." She handled it so well that Sheikha Lubna received a number of key recognitions, awards and received a major bump up being named Minister of Foreign Trade in early 2008. Her appointments paved the way for three other women cabinet Ministers as well as a growing host of young highly talented woman Ambassadors with considerable clout and power in their own right. She is the forerunner of the women's empowerment in the UAE; influencing positive change in the entire Muslim and Arab world.
Sheikha Lubna represents the 21st Century woman; not just as an Arab who would be ignorantly deemed by the West as an anomaly. She is cutting through veils of discrimination with serious substance, style and a smile. Recently at a private luncheon in Hartford, Connecticut, she told an intimate room of 40 guests that when she first received the call and offered the job of Minister of Economy, she instinctively replied, "I have to ask my mother first." When she mentions her mother, her face softens. For a split second, she becomes a little girl again, but she snaps right back to Minister in an instant.
While in Hartford, Her Excellency received another first becoming the first woman to become an honorary member of the Syracuse 8 -- "Eight African-American athletes at Syracuse University boycotted the 1970 football season in a collective effort to demand change and promote racial equality within the University football program....." After 36 years of protest, another woman of power Chancellor Nancy Cantor officially apologized for SU's history of racism awarding these men the Chancellor's Medal of Honor.
Sheikha Lubna is a blue blooded Princess -- the Qasimi family heads two Emirates in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. She does not do any of dainty stepping however. She is always thinking and busy on her blackberry sending and receiving messages to and from leaders around the globe, she knows in her position she has fully replaced a size 10 man's shoe with a pair of pumps.
During the world's economic turmoil; her job has become even more paramount to the UAE. In Davos in January, she took part in an economic forum and held court in her suite having high level meetings. Literally nearly every week of her life, she has major engagements with world leaders such as Medvedev and Putin of Russia as well as her counterparts such as Lord Digby Jones, the UK Government's Minister of State for Trade. Having studied in the United States during her undergraduate years, she has a special love for the United States. She has been a great Diplomatic bridge between the two nations.
Because she wears a Hijab and is from an Islamic Federation with hereditary male rulers; a lot of us in the West actually search for where her power might be limited, but we are limited. The fact is this woman knows her own power and flies with the flag of the United Arab Emirates as her cape.
-- Huffington Post Blog
Monday, December 8, 2008
UAE: Women marginal in private sector
Most private employers lack a strategy to recruit Emirati women, but half plan to hire them in the coming year, a survey indicates.
The survey by the research company YouGov Siraj showed a willingness to add Emirati women to the workforce, but 60 per cent of businesses had not developed a strategy to employ more of them.
Only 13 per cent of private sector employees are Emirati women, the study found.
The study was commissioned by Tawteen, an initiative of the Emirates Foundation that promotes private sector employment for Emiratis. Emiratis of both sexes typically gravitate toward the public sector. Overall, Emiratis make up about 10 per cent of the private sector workforce.
But the study, preliminary details of which were provided to The National, shows that many Emirati women want to enter the workforce. A majority of women surveyed said it was better for families if mothers worked outside the home.
Asked to choose which of two statements they agreed with, 70 per cent picked “it is a mother’s responsibility to work so that she can be a role model for her children”. Eighteen per cent agreed that staying at home with children was best, to “see to their proper upbringing”.
“The survey may show that 70 per cent of women may say they want to work, even if they are mothers, but this still appears to be more an indication of attitudes than behaviour,” said Hussain Alothman, a professor of sociology at the University of Sharjah. “Because when you look at behaviour, it’s still a bit early in the game to say that women are beginning to readily participate in the workforce as they have done in education.” The majority of students in UAE postsecondary schools are women.
Prof Alothman said unlike women in other Arab countries, the issue of staying home and raising children was not the decisive factor in keeping Emirati women from taking jobs. “The issue is more about how the men perceive women being employed. Most local men do not want their wives to go outside the home to work.”
In the YouGov study, researchers surveyed and held focus-group discussions with women from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Subjects included women who were working, first-time job seekers and some who left work but wanted to return. Influential male figures, including fathers, brothers and husbands, also participated. The researchers also interviewed 51 employers.
Two major reasons for employers to hire Emirati women, the researchers found, were to “add prestige” to their organisations (45 per cent) and to promote “cultural know-how and social connections” (41 per cent).
Eighty-four per cent of the companies surveyed said they had introduced development and training opportunities for Emirati women. Sixty-three per cent offered flexible working hours and about half extended maternity leave. But the researchers concluded that private sector employers have not found the right formula.
Employers “need to persuade Emiratis that the private sector is a good choice by introducing family-friendly and culturally sensitive measures”, said Suzan Sandouka, the programme director of Tawteen.
Tawteen’s objective is to “address a number of existing of misconceptions about the private sector for Emiratis and to alleviate their anxieties identified in this research, such as lack of job security and stability, lack of prestige and lack of flexibility”.
Mohanned Tabishet, an anthropologist at UAE University, said shifting women away from the public sector would be difficult because of the perceived advantages of working for the state.
“In practical terms, the state has been more beneficial than the private sector. It pays more benefits and offers more stability,” Prof Tabishet said. “With the private sector you lack many of these benefits, like the housing stipends.
“Women look to the state as a secure form of employment. It’s a logical extension of their social surroundings.”
By Hugh Naylor, The National
The survey by the research company YouGov Siraj showed a willingness to add Emirati women to the workforce, but 60 per cent of businesses had not developed a strategy to employ more of them.
Only 13 per cent of private sector employees are Emirati women, the study found.
The study was commissioned by Tawteen, an initiative of the Emirates Foundation that promotes private sector employment for Emiratis. Emiratis of both sexes typically gravitate toward the public sector. Overall, Emiratis make up about 10 per cent of the private sector workforce.
But the study, preliminary details of which were provided to The National, shows that many Emirati women want to enter the workforce. A majority of women surveyed said it was better for families if mothers worked outside the home.
Asked to choose which of two statements they agreed with, 70 per cent picked “it is a mother’s responsibility to work so that she can be a role model for her children”. Eighteen per cent agreed that staying at home with children was best, to “see to their proper upbringing”.
“The survey may show that 70 per cent of women may say they want to work, even if they are mothers, but this still appears to be more an indication of attitudes than behaviour,” said Hussain Alothman, a professor of sociology at the University of Sharjah. “Because when you look at behaviour, it’s still a bit early in the game to say that women are beginning to readily participate in the workforce as they have done in education.” The majority of students in UAE postsecondary schools are women.
Prof Alothman said unlike women in other Arab countries, the issue of staying home and raising children was not the decisive factor in keeping Emirati women from taking jobs. “The issue is more about how the men perceive women being employed. Most local men do not want their wives to go outside the home to work.”
In the YouGov study, researchers surveyed and held focus-group discussions with women from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Subjects included women who were working, first-time job seekers and some who left work but wanted to return. Influential male figures, including fathers, brothers and husbands, also participated. The researchers also interviewed 51 employers.
Two major reasons for employers to hire Emirati women, the researchers found, were to “add prestige” to their organisations (45 per cent) and to promote “cultural know-how and social connections” (41 per cent).
Eighty-four per cent of the companies surveyed said they had introduced development and training opportunities for Emirati women. Sixty-three per cent offered flexible working hours and about half extended maternity leave. But the researchers concluded that private sector employers have not found the right formula.
Employers “need to persuade Emiratis that the private sector is a good choice by introducing family-friendly and culturally sensitive measures”, said Suzan Sandouka, the programme director of Tawteen.
Tawteen’s objective is to “address a number of existing of misconceptions about the private sector for Emiratis and to alleviate their anxieties identified in this research, such as lack of job security and stability, lack of prestige and lack of flexibility”.
Mohanned Tabishet, an anthropologist at UAE University, said shifting women away from the public sector would be difficult because of the perceived advantages of working for the state.
“In practical terms, the state has been more beneficial than the private sector. It pays more benefits and offers more stability,” Prof Tabishet said. “With the private sector you lack many of these benefits, like the housing stipends.
“Women look to the state as a secure form of employment. It’s a logical extension of their social surroundings.”
By Hugh Naylor, The National
Friday, November 14, 2008
UAE: Conservative UAE gets its first female marriage official
A Muslim woman on Thursday became the first ever female allowed to conduct marriages in the oil-rich United Arab Emirates and throughout the conservative Gulf, the official WAM news agency reported.
It said Fatima Saeed Obeid al-Awani, 33, a married mother of two boys, was named to the post in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi by the justice ministry.
Awani's appointment as "maazoun" -- a job traditionally held by men -- is aimed at "bolstering the role of women in society... in line with Emirati laws and without violating sharia" Muslim law, the agency said.
Awani holds a degree in theology from the faculty of law of the University of the Emirates.
She now becomes the first woman to be allowed to write up marriage contracts throughout the conservative Gulf, but she is not the first woman "maazoun" in an Arab state -- Egypt has already broken ground in that area.
In March Abu Dhabi got its first woman judge and in February the number of women in the cabinet was doubled to four. Last year Abu Dhabi got its first female Emirati taxi driver.
Agence France-Presse
It said Fatima Saeed Obeid al-Awani, 33, a married mother of two boys, was named to the post in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi by the justice ministry.
Awani's appointment as "maazoun" -- a job traditionally held by men -- is aimed at "bolstering the role of women in society... in line with Emirati laws and without violating sharia" Muslim law, the agency said.
Awani holds a degree in theology from the faculty of law of the University of the Emirates.
She now becomes the first woman to be allowed to write up marriage contracts throughout the conservative Gulf, but she is not the first woman "maazoun" in an Arab state -- Egypt has already broken ground in that area.
In March Abu Dhabi got its first woman judge and in February the number of women in the cabinet was doubled to four. Last year Abu Dhabi got its first female Emirati taxi driver.
Agence France-Presse
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
UAE: Victims of domestic violence urged to report incidents
By Bassma Al Jandaly, Staff Reporter, Gulf News
Dubai: Women who are victims of domestic violence are being urged not to suffer in silence and report the abuse immediately.
"If you know someone who may be the target of domestic violence, encourage them to seek professional advice. Our helpline is anonymous and our mission is to provide free assistance for all victims of domestic violence," said Afra Al Basti, CEO of Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC).
She said since nobody reports such incidents, there are no official statistics for domestic violence in Dubai.
"When a family member is abused, it can have long-term destructive effects on the victim as well as the rest of the family. Our society must continue to work to stop domestic violence and assist in creating a loving and secure environment for our children and grandchildren," she said.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dubai Foundation is bringing the issues of abuse in the home in the UAE to the forefront during the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children Month.
Violence against women and children is a global issue. The World Health Organisation estimates that domestic violence affects more than 50 per cent of women worldwide.
The United Nations Children's Fund estimates that more than 300 million children are also victims of child abuse and exploitation. Unfortunately Dubai is not immune to this.
Tarnishing image
According to Maria Jose-Alcala, Senior Adviser, Ending Violence against Women Section at the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM): "Violence against women and girls is a plague that tarnishes our very notion of humanity. And when it occurs within the family - what should be for everyone a most safe and loving haven - we all need to ask ourselves where our values are, that we should tacitly accept systematic abuse against women as acceptable. Domestic violence is tragically a universal and all too common phenomenon."
The Dubai Foundation was established to assist women and children in these situations of abuse and violence.
"We provide immediate assistance through shelter, medical care, and support services. Our doors are open to anyone who needs us. Ending domestic violence in the UAE is one of DFWAC's top priorities," said Al Basti.
Do you know anyone who has suffered domestic abuse? What stops women from approaching the concerned authorities in such cases? How can more women be encouraged to seek help? Fill in the form bellow to send your comments.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your comments
It is not only women who are abused in a relationship. Domestic abuse of men by women is perhaps more difficult to manage as men cannot defend themselves without risking accusations of being the abuser. This gives the abusive women freedom to attack without fear of retaliation or consequence.
From A Reader
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 14:23
It would be easier for women to report such incidents if the contact details for DFWAC were advertised. Television advertisements create a huge impact and when repeated it helps memorise the number. Radio advertisements and billboards are also good options. It would encourage more women to step up.
Sam
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 14:05
Victims of domestic violence prefer to keep quiet rather than come out in the open, because they are scared for various reasons. Firstly, it is hard to trust others for support and protection. They fear their situation could get a lot worse if they did. Secondly, if the victim comes from an influential family, they fear the organisation would not be able to do much to help or better their situation. The only way victims will start believing in these organisations is if strong measures are taken to support and protect them.
Kajal
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 12:26
I am a housemaid and have worked for a family for the last six years. The owner of the apartment has two sons and has divorced his wife. Now, he wants me to divorce my husband who is back home so that he could marry me. I refused to marry him so now he is making my life hard.
Genet Kifle
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 11:46
Many women, including myself, suffer from domestic violence but do not ask for help. This is because eventually women have to continue staying with the same person and any publicity would affect their own self-esteem, as well as the child's. I have a 7-year-old child, if I call the police and tell them my husband beat me then my child would witness all the police coming to the house. In the end, what is my guarantee that my husband would start treating me with respect? What if it gets worse because I spoke about it to someone else?
Sindhu Jacob
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 11:18
Its good to hear that there is such a foundation in UAE, but my question is how far can you go to help these women? I know women suffering from domestic abuse.
Randa
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 10:58
I believe domestic violence happens everywhere. I do not think the victims would feel comfortable sharing it because it would bring shame to many. I do hope for the best in this mission because abusing women is very inhumane.
Pia
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 10:47
It is indeed sad that even today the very individuals who claim to be their guardians subject women to abuse. Intra familial relations are a very sensitive issue and considered private in almost all societies. What is even more appalling is the level of hypocrisy prevalent - many so-called highly placed men who appear to be the moral stalwarts of society are the ones who abuse their spouses back home. In most cases these hapless women are economically dependent on their husbands and often have young children dependent on them as well. Along with these shackles is the fear of ostracism and stigma - in the event of separation from their spouses. It is because of all these factors that most victims of physical and psychological abuse shy away from bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes out in the open. Instead they choose to suffer in silence, sometimes for years. We, as women must extend our helping hand to such sisters in distress and do all we can to help them. I believe that not reporting an incidence of domestic violence is only going to propel and encourage further such incidents, as covering up is not the solution to this burning issue. It is good to see action taken by the authorities.
Shiuli Dutt Dey
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 09:38
I know someone who is suffering from mental and physical abuse from her husband and she does not know where to go. I hope this will help her in dealing with the situation.
Asad
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 08:13
For the last eight years I have been physically and verbally abused in front of my kids and friends several times by my husband. I have not approached the authorities fearing that I would lose the custody of my two young children to their father. Another reason is the humiliation and pain that my ailing parents would go through because of this. I believe these are the common reasons that most women feel reluctant to come forth. However, the years of abuse has hardened me so much that I am a living example of a survivor.
From A Reader
Dubai,UAE
Dubai: Women who are victims of domestic violence are being urged not to suffer in silence and report the abuse immediately.
"If you know someone who may be the target of domestic violence, encourage them to seek professional advice. Our helpline is anonymous and our mission is to provide free assistance for all victims of domestic violence," said Afra Al Basti, CEO of Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC).
She said since nobody reports such incidents, there are no official statistics for domestic violence in Dubai.
"When a family member is abused, it can have long-term destructive effects on the victim as well as the rest of the family. Our society must continue to work to stop domestic violence and assist in creating a loving and secure environment for our children and grandchildren," she said.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dubai Foundation is bringing the issues of abuse in the home in the UAE to the forefront during the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children Month.
Violence against women and children is a global issue. The World Health Organisation estimates that domestic violence affects more than 50 per cent of women worldwide.
The United Nations Children's Fund estimates that more than 300 million children are also victims of child abuse and exploitation. Unfortunately Dubai is not immune to this.
Tarnishing image
According to Maria Jose-Alcala, Senior Adviser, Ending Violence against Women Section at the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM): "Violence against women and girls is a plague that tarnishes our very notion of humanity. And when it occurs within the family - what should be for everyone a most safe and loving haven - we all need to ask ourselves where our values are, that we should tacitly accept systematic abuse against women as acceptable. Domestic violence is tragically a universal and all too common phenomenon."
The Dubai Foundation was established to assist women and children in these situations of abuse and violence.
"We provide immediate assistance through shelter, medical care, and support services. Our doors are open to anyone who needs us. Ending domestic violence in the UAE is one of DFWAC's top priorities," said Al Basti.
Do you know anyone who has suffered domestic abuse? What stops women from approaching the concerned authorities in such cases? How can more women be encouraged to seek help? Fill in the form bellow to send your comments.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your comments
It is not only women who are abused in a relationship. Domestic abuse of men by women is perhaps more difficult to manage as men cannot defend themselves without risking accusations of being the abuser. This gives the abusive women freedom to attack without fear of retaliation or consequence.
From A Reader
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 14:23
It would be easier for women to report such incidents if the contact details for DFWAC were advertised. Television advertisements create a huge impact and when repeated it helps memorise the number. Radio advertisements and billboards are also good options. It would encourage more women to step up.
Sam
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 14:05
Victims of domestic violence prefer to keep quiet rather than come out in the open, because they are scared for various reasons. Firstly, it is hard to trust others for support and protection. They fear their situation could get a lot worse if they did. Secondly, if the victim comes from an influential family, they fear the organisation would not be able to do much to help or better their situation. The only way victims will start believing in these organisations is if strong measures are taken to support and protect them.
Kajal
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 12:26
I am a housemaid and have worked for a family for the last six years. The owner of the apartment has two sons and has divorced his wife. Now, he wants me to divorce my husband who is back home so that he could marry me. I refused to marry him so now he is making my life hard.
Genet Kifle
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 11:46
Many women, including myself, suffer from domestic violence but do not ask for help. This is because eventually women have to continue staying with the same person and any publicity would affect their own self-esteem, as well as the child's. I have a 7-year-old child, if I call the police and tell them my husband beat me then my child would witness all the police coming to the house. In the end, what is my guarantee that my husband would start treating me with respect? What if it gets worse because I spoke about it to someone else?
Sindhu Jacob
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 11:18
Its good to hear that there is such a foundation in UAE, but my question is how far can you go to help these women? I know women suffering from domestic abuse.
Randa
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 10:58
I believe domestic violence happens everywhere. I do not think the victims would feel comfortable sharing it because it would bring shame to many. I do hope for the best in this mission because abusing women is very inhumane.
Pia
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 10:47
It is indeed sad that even today the very individuals who claim to be their guardians subject women to abuse. Intra familial relations are a very sensitive issue and considered private in almost all societies. What is even more appalling is the level of hypocrisy prevalent - many so-called highly placed men who appear to be the moral stalwarts of society are the ones who abuse their spouses back home. In most cases these hapless women are economically dependent on their husbands and often have young children dependent on them as well. Along with these shackles is the fear of ostracism and stigma - in the event of separation from their spouses. It is because of all these factors that most victims of physical and psychological abuse shy away from bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes out in the open. Instead they choose to suffer in silence, sometimes for years. We, as women must extend our helping hand to such sisters in distress and do all we can to help them. I believe that not reporting an incidence of domestic violence is only going to propel and encourage further such incidents, as covering up is not the solution to this burning issue. It is good to see action taken by the authorities.
Shiuli Dutt Dey
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 09:38
I know someone who is suffering from mental and physical abuse from her husband and she does not know where to go. I hope this will help her in dealing with the situation.
Asad
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 05, 2008, 08:13
For the last eight years I have been physically and verbally abused in front of my kids and friends several times by my husband. I have not approached the authorities fearing that I would lose the custody of my two young children to their father. Another reason is the humiliation and pain that my ailing parents would go through because of this. I believe these are the common reasons that most women feel reluctant to come forth. However, the years of abuse has hardened me so much that I am a living example of a survivor.
From A Reader
Dubai,UAE
UAE: Female prosecutors in Dubai eager to embrace new challenges
Dubai: The first batch of female public prosecutors who were sworn in as trainees at the Dubai Judicial Institute (DJI) on Tuesday have shown readiness to face challenges and eagerness to investigate criminal and civil cases.
Ten females, who were among a list of 30 public prosecution trainees that will start a judicial training programme at DJI next Sunday, swore in on Tuesday before Dubai Attorney General Essam Eisa Al Humaidan.
Thuraya Al Zarouni, who worked as a lawyer for six years, said she is ready to face any challenge in her upcoming job and expressed her eagerness to investigate criminal cases.
"I acquired good experience in handling criminal cases when I practiced law... my family supports me now and I am eager to work as a public prosecutor."
She told Gulf News that she chose public prosecution because she wants to serve the country.
"Why not become the first female chief prosecutor or attorney general?" she said.
The 30 public prosecution interns represent the DJI's 10th batch and were sworn in ahead of joining Dubai's Public Prosecution Department as assistant prosecutors.
The interns, who are the largest batch so far, were short-listed from over 250 applicants from all over the UAE, following a meticulous selection process that included oral and written examinations and a personal interview.
"I am seeking to specialise in criminal or commercial cases investigations. I have chosen to become a public prosecutor because I want to serve my country and make the UAE proud of its women. My family opposed my practising law at first but then they accepted the idea and supported me," said Amna Jamal Bukattara, who has eight years of experience.
By Bassam Za'za', Senior Reporter, Gulf News
Ten females, who were among a list of 30 public prosecution trainees that will start a judicial training programme at DJI next Sunday, swore in on Tuesday before Dubai Attorney General Essam Eisa Al Humaidan.
Thuraya Al Zarouni, who worked as a lawyer for six years, said she is ready to face any challenge in her upcoming job and expressed her eagerness to investigate criminal cases.
"I acquired good experience in handling criminal cases when I practiced law... my family supports me now and I am eager to work as a public prosecutor."
She told Gulf News that she chose public prosecution because she wants to serve the country.
"Why not become the first female chief prosecutor or attorney general?" she said.
The 30 public prosecution interns represent the DJI's 10th batch and were sworn in ahead of joining Dubai's Public Prosecution Department as assistant prosecutors.
The interns, who are the largest batch so far, were short-listed from over 250 applicants from all over the UAE, following a meticulous selection process that included oral and written examinations and a personal interview.
"I am seeking to specialise in criminal or commercial cases investigations. I have chosen to become a public prosecutor because I want to serve my country and make the UAE proud of its women. My family opposed my practising law at first but then they accepted the idea and supported me," said Amna Jamal Bukattara, who has eight years of experience.
By Bassam Za'za', Senior Reporter, Gulf News
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Middle East: Mideast women seek more clout
A group visits Maine under a program to help women achieve gains in Middle Eastern politics.
Mona Abdulrahman Al-Anbari will head back to Qatar next month, energized to work for a particular candidate for the national legislature -- partly because of what she saw in Maine.
Al-Anbari, a journalist who is thinking of trying for a local office herself, said seeing women run for some of Maine's highest political offices, including the U.S. Senate and House, has convinced her that women in Qatar need to take on a bigger role in that country's political process.
"When I get home, I will certainly be pushing for (more) women to participate in elections," she said through an interpreter. She plans to back one woman candidate who wants a quota to make sure that women make up a sizable portion of the Qatar legislature.
Al-Anbari, visiting Maine as part of the State Department's Middle East Partnership Initiative, said she was particularly impressed to see Maine women forcefully advocate positions, both as political workers and as candidates themselves.
The group that visited Maine consisted of 10 women from the Middle East -- politicians, party workers, activists, educators and journalists -- along with translators and State Department officials. While here since Sunday, they received briefings on Maine government and politics; met with officials from Emerge Maine, which runs a political training program for Democratic women; went to the campaign office of Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine; met with state Sen. Beth Edmonds, D-Freeport, president of the Maine Senate; and met with Cape Elizabeth High School social studies classes and the student World Affairs Council.
Access to politics and public office varies widely across the Middle East. In some countries, such as Lebanon, women are mostly welcomed as equals in the political world, said May Tony Akl.
Akl is an official with the Free Patriotic Movement, which was one of the political groups active in the "Cedar Revolution" of 2005, which resulted in the ouster of Syrian forces from Lebanon. The country only recently revamped its election laws, getting rid of a system under which the Syrians controlled voting and effectively named the winners, Akl said.
Akl said Lebanese political parties now face many of the same issues parties in the United States have, grappling with how many paid staffers should be hired, encouraging volunteers and figuring out fundraising.
Lebanon has six or seven major parties, often set up along religious lines, said Maya Sukar, who works for the Christian-based Lebanese Forces Party.
Sukar said many Lebanese women don't like politics, so she hopes telling them about how involved women are in the U.S. might lead to a change of heart and encourage more to become candidates or work for a party.
Al-Anbari said things are improving in politics for women in her country. She said the law was only recently changed to allow women to run for the national legislature, providing an opportunity for women like the one who wants to institute a quota.
"I am ambitious now and want to offer her help," Al-Anbari said.
The law was also only recently changed to allow women to run for office in the United Arab Emirates, said Suaad Zaayed Ibrahim Al Oraimi. She said half of the legislature is elected popularly and half selected by the government. In the most recent election, one woman won a seat and eight were appointed, giving women nine of 40 seats.
"It's good. I am happy with that," said Al Oraimi, a professor.
Al Oraimi said getting UAE residents interested in politics and government can be difficult. With oil revenue, the country provides free housing, health care and education and is responsible for creating most of the jobs that are available.
With that amount of government support, she said, many residents just want to make sure the services keep coming.
"They are comfortable and don't feel the need to fight for everything," she said.
The program began Oct. 14 in Washington with a series of seminars on the U.S. political system and then visits to states. After wrapping up the visit to Portland today, the group will head to Seattle to observe the last days of political races there and watch the results of the voting Tuesday.
-- Portland Press Herald
Mona Abdulrahman Al-Anbari will head back to Qatar next month, energized to work for a particular candidate for the national legislature -- partly because of what she saw in Maine.
Al-Anbari, a journalist who is thinking of trying for a local office herself, said seeing women run for some of Maine's highest political offices, including the U.S. Senate and House, has convinced her that women in Qatar need to take on a bigger role in that country's political process.
"When I get home, I will certainly be pushing for (more) women to participate in elections," she said through an interpreter. She plans to back one woman candidate who wants a quota to make sure that women make up a sizable portion of the Qatar legislature.
Al-Anbari, visiting Maine as part of the State Department's Middle East Partnership Initiative, said she was particularly impressed to see Maine women forcefully advocate positions, both as political workers and as candidates themselves.
The group that visited Maine consisted of 10 women from the Middle East -- politicians, party workers, activists, educators and journalists -- along with translators and State Department officials. While here since Sunday, they received briefings on Maine government and politics; met with officials from Emerge Maine, which runs a political training program for Democratic women; went to the campaign office of Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine; met with state Sen. Beth Edmonds, D-Freeport, president of the Maine Senate; and met with Cape Elizabeth High School social studies classes and the student World Affairs Council.
Access to politics and public office varies widely across the Middle East. In some countries, such as Lebanon, women are mostly welcomed as equals in the political world, said May Tony Akl.
Akl is an official with the Free Patriotic Movement, which was one of the political groups active in the "Cedar Revolution" of 2005, which resulted in the ouster of Syrian forces from Lebanon. The country only recently revamped its election laws, getting rid of a system under which the Syrians controlled voting and effectively named the winners, Akl said.
Akl said Lebanese political parties now face many of the same issues parties in the United States have, grappling with how many paid staffers should be hired, encouraging volunteers and figuring out fundraising.
Lebanon has six or seven major parties, often set up along religious lines, said Maya Sukar, who works for the Christian-based Lebanese Forces Party.
Sukar said many Lebanese women don't like politics, so she hopes telling them about how involved women are in the U.S. might lead to a change of heart and encourage more to become candidates or work for a party.
Al-Anbari said things are improving in politics for women in her country. She said the law was only recently changed to allow women to run for the national legislature, providing an opportunity for women like the one who wants to institute a quota.
"I am ambitious now and want to offer her help," Al-Anbari said.
The law was also only recently changed to allow women to run for office in the United Arab Emirates, said Suaad Zaayed Ibrahim Al Oraimi. She said half of the legislature is elected popularly and half selected by the government. In the most recent election, one woman won a seat and eight were appointed, giving women nine of 40 seats.
"It's good. I am happy with that," said Al Oraimi, a professor.
Al Oraimi said getting UAE residents interested in politics and government can be difficult. With oil revenue, the country provides free housing, health care and education and is responsible for creating most of the jobs that are available.
With that amount of government support, she said, many residents just want to make sure the services keep coming.
"They are comfortable and don't feel the need to fight for everything," she said.
The program began Oct. 14 in Washington with a series of seminars on the U.S. political system and then visits to states. After wrapping up the visit to Portland today, the group will head to Seattle to observe the last days of political races there and watch the results of the voting Tuesday.
-- Portland Press Herald
Friday, September 26, 2008
UAE: Government attaches top priority to women's education
Dr Hanif Hassan, the UAE’s Minister of Education, reviewed the efforts of the UAE in supporting education and creating an international education system.
At a recent seminar he attended in Washington D.C., he said, “The ministry’s mission collaboratively supports our students, schools and partners in the delivery of a world-class educational system by planning, implementing, and monitoring high quality educational standards, policies, programmes, and guidelines.”
He also emphasised that the “21st century teacher project” would train 10,000 teachers while Dh200 million would be spent on the programme.
He highlighted the strides made by the country in women’s education.
“The UAE currently occupies the first rank in women’s education, especially higher education.
“The number of women who completed their high school education exceeded men.
“Women have become an important source of talents, skills and economic resource in the UAE,” he said.
- Khaleej Times
At a recent seminar he attended in Washington D.C., he said, “The ministry’s mission collaboratively supports our students, schools and partners in the delivery of a world-class educational system by planning, implementing, and monitoring high quality educational standards, policies, programmes, and guidelines.”
He also emphasised that the “21st century teacher project” would train 10,000 teachers while Dh200 million would be spent on the programme.
He highlighted the strides made by the country in women’s education.
“The UAE currently occupies the first rank in women’s education, especially higher education.
“The number of women who completed their high school education exceeded men.
“Women have become an important source of talents, skills and economic resource in the UAE,” he said.
- Khaleej Times
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
UAE: Initiative to provide data on UAE women
DUBAI — The Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) has signed a strategic co-operation agreement with the Dubai Statistics Centre (DSC) to share crucial data that will further the goals of both organisations to provide better understanding on the status of UAE women.
The agreement was signed by Mona Al Marri, Chairperson of the board of Dubai Women Establishment, and Arif Obaid Al Muhairi, CEO of the Dubai Statistics Centre, recently.
The DWE aims to source relevant updated data on women that will aid the establishment to provide an in-depth analysis of their status and their individual and collective capabilities to contribute to the national economy.
Mona Al Marri said, "The agreement is among the initial outcomes of the DWE's five-pronged strategy that aims to enhance Emirati women's contribution in the society. Such exclusive statistics and numbers will help us identify real challenges the UAE working women face in their day-to-day life and will allow us to offer most appropriate solutions while paving the way for their active participation through leadership positions in the private and public sectors.
"Apart from exchanging statistics, our cooperation with the Dubai Statistics Centre will ensure the joint implementation of statistical initiatives including women-oriented surveys. With the guidance of experts from the centre, we will launch new research initiatives exploring women's role in the society and to become the reference on UAE women."
Underlining the importance of cooperating with governmental establishments to support Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, Al Muhairi said the centre is keen to align itself with any organisation through providing data, market indicators and statistical forecasts or surveys.
Al Muhairi said: "The synergy between the two establishments emphasises our commitment to obtaining and categorising information that would be beneficial to UAE women, especially in research. We are confident that the agreement will help the DWE devise relevant strategies and implement the most appropriate programmes for the advantage of UAE women."
As part of its holistic objective to ensure Emirati women play a key role not only in the local arena but throughout the Gulf region, the DWE has initiated several women-centric programmes with the active participation of private and public sector organisations. It recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Mohammed bin Rashid Programme for Leadership Development to formulate programmes for training and developing a significant number of elite Emirati leaders.
-- Khaleej Times
The agreement was signed by Mona Al Marri, Chairperson of the board of Dubai Women Establishment, and Arif Obaid Al Muhairi, CEO of the Dubai Statistics Centre, recently.
The DWE aims to source relevant updated data on women that will aid the establishment to provide an in-depth analysis of their status and their individual and collective capabilities to contribute to the national economy.
Mona Al Marri said, "The agreement is among the initial outcomes of the DWE's five-pronged strategy that aims to enhance Emirati women's contribution in the society. Such exclusive statistics and numbers will help us identify real challenges the UAE working women face in their day-to-day life and will allow us to offer most appropriate solutions while paving the way for their active participation through leadership positions in the private and public sectors.
"Apart from exchanging statistics, our cooperation with the Dubai Statistics Centre will ensure the joint implementation of statistical initiatives including women-oriented surveys. With the guidance of experts from the centre, we will launch new research initiatives exploring women's role in the society and to become the reference on UAE women."
Underlining the importance of cooperating with governmental establishments to support Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, Al Muhairi said the centre is keen to align itself with any organisation through providing data, market indicators and statistical forecasts or surveys.
Al Muhairi said: "The synergy between the two establishments emphasises our commitment to obtaining and categorising information that would be beneficial to UAE women, especially in research. We are confident that the agreement will help the DWE devise relevant strategies and implement the most appropriate programmes for the advantage of UAE women."
As part of its holistic objective to ensure Emirati women play a key role not only in the local arena but throughout the Gulf region, the DWE has initiated several women-centric programmes with the active participation of private and public sector organisations. It recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Mohammed bin Rashid Programme for Leadership Development to formulate programmes for training and developing a significant number of elite Emirati leaders.
-- Khaleej Times
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