Skip to main content

International Day for Tolerance: UAE’s Efforts in Promoting Diversity and Understanding Recognized Globally

 













In 1996, the UN general assembly convened Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on November 16. People are more connected today – but this does not mean there is more understanding. Sectarian tensions can be found at the heart of many conflicts.

Tolerance is much more than passively accepting the other. It must be taught, nurtured and defended. On the International Day of Tolerance, let us pledge to forge a path defined by dialogue, social cohesion and mutual understanding.

UAE’s tolerance and peace efforts in focus

The UAE’s efforts to foster tolerance, citizenship and global peace are becoming increasingly prominent. Earlier this month, Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities organised the first International Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Ethiopia.

The first-of-its-kind Summit sought to offer a platform for open dialogue on enhancing interfaith understanding, spreading tolerance and peace, and supporting comprehensive citizenship – eventually building bridges of cooperation to connect different cultures.

During the conference, the President of Ethiopia lauded the UAE’s efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue and building bridges of cultural communication in the international community. He also thanked the Gulf state for supporting cultural and scientific projects in Ethiopia.

UAE countering hate speech to strengthen unity

In June 2024, the UAE observed the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. Zaki Nusseibeh, cultural adviser to the UAE President and chancellor of the UAE University, highlighted the significant efforts of the country to strengthen unity.

Speaking ahead of the international occasion, he noted: “Countering hate speech in the UAE is not merely an ethical obligation but rather a deeply rooted approach and legacy inherited from the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan.”

The Gulf state has enacted strict regulations to combat discrimination and hate speech, ensuring the rights of all people and promoting safe living in an atmosphere of mutual respect. The country continues to promote global tolerance and peace.

International Day of Tolerance in the UAE

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, earlier said that the International Day for Tolerance is an opportunity to highlight the increasing need for global understanding and respect for human dignity.

The UAE is a young and multicultural society. The country is home to people from more than 200 nationalities, including Emiratis and expatriates from India, Egypt, Pakistan and the Philippines. The UAE celebrates its diversity as a source of strength.

The Gulf state also embraces freedom of belief and religion. People from different cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds call the place their home. The UAE’s multiculturalism is supported by its status as a global business and tourism hub.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...

UAE Introduces AI-Driven Drones for Crescent Moon Sighting

  For the first time in history, the UAE is employing artificial intelligence-powered drones to sight the crescent moon, signaling the start of Ramadan. This modernized approach blends technology with Islamic tradition, enhancing the reliability of moon sighting methods. Historically, the crescent moon has been identified through naked-eye sightings and advanced astronomical calculations. By incorporating AI-supported drones, the UAE is reinforcing its position as a leader in technological innovation while maintaining deep respect for religious customs. This method is backed by national research centers and astronomical observatories, ensuring precision and credibility in determining the start of Ramadan. Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, marked by fasting from dawn to dusk. Suhoor, the early morning meal, and Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, hold great importance during this period. The holy month is also a time of increased charitable giving, with many Muslims part...

UAE-WHO Initiative Aims to Combat Malnutrition on Yemen’s Socotra Island

  A Lifeline for Socotra: How the UAE and WHO Are Tackling Malnutrition Yemen’s Socotra Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking biodiversity, is facing a silent crisis—malnutrition. With alarming rates of acute malnutrition among children and anemia in pregnant women, the island’s healthcare system is under immense strain. However, a new humanitarian initiative led by the  United Arab Emirates (UAE)  and the  World Health Organization (WHO)  is bringing hope to thousands of vulnerable families. The Crisis in Socotra Socotra, home to over  83,000 people , has long struggled with food insecurity and limited healthcare access. Recent reports reveal: 10.9%  of children under five suffer from  Global Acute Malnutrition (GAM) . 1.6%  face  Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) , a life-threatening condition. 92.7%  of pregnant women experience  anemia , increasing risks during childbirth. Only  32 health facili...