On January 15, 2017, I had the privilege of meeting Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, the president of Zayed University and UAE Minister of State for Tolerance at her university. We discussed her unique role in the ministry and the ministry’s importance for society at large.
Sheikha Lubna asserted, “the UAE is one of the greatest examples of tolerance.” The UAE’s tolerance is reflected in the very fabric of its society, incorporating both nationals and foreign residents in such a way that “everything reflects tolerance.” Sheikha Lubna is well-positioned to have a broad perspective on the nation’s composition and needs. She previously held four ministerial portfolios and was the UAE’s first female Minister of the Economy. Talking about her new job as Minister of State for Tolerance, she explained that the UAE has service ministries, such as social welfare; ministries with international roles, such as foreign affairs; policy-making ministries; and two new and “odd” ministries: the ministries of happiness and tolerance. She noted that “these reflect the values that are integral to all of us. Tolerance is acceptance—accepting and rejoicing in our differences. We have to interact with the community. It is a challenging job, but an exciting ministry. Hopefully, we will see great results.”
Indeed, after seeing the ministry’s progressive plans, I, too, truly expect to see great results. I wish you all the best, Sheikha Lubna, and thank you for your dedication.
UAE National Tolerance Program
During the holy month of Ramadan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, vice president of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, announced in a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, June 8, 2016, that the country would continue to promote the principles of tolerance set by His Highness Sheikh Zayed, the UAE’s founding father. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said, “Tolerance is a key value of our ancestors and our founding fathers. The UAE has succeeded in spreading it throughout the Arab region and the world.”
He continued: “The holy month of Ramadan is a great opportunity to spread the spirit of tolerance and show the real image of moderation and respect for others,” adding, “Tolerance is the basis for building societies and promoting values of peaceful coexistence. Today, we need to be more tolerant and united to face the changes happening around us.”
According to a report by the Emirates News Agency, the National Tolerance Program would involve collaborations among federal and local entities within five main themes: