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Dubai: An academic and female candidate in the upcoming Federal National Council elections said she would encourage an exchange of ideas and cultures between Emirati and expatriate families in the UAE if elected.
Dr Meshgan Al Awar, the director of the Research and Studies Centre at Dubai Police Academy, is focusing on social values through her role as a mother and working woman during her election campaign. At a press conference held yesterday, she said there was a need to enhance the cultural understanding between Emiratis and expatriate communities in the UAE.
Suggesting an "open hearts and open minds" policy, Dr Meshgan said that she would propose legislation that would encourage a cultural exchange between the communities. According to her, such a policy would also help maintain the Emirati identity.
"Our children [interact] with so many different nationalities. This gives rise to the need for a better understanding between cultures," she said.
Dr Meshgan also highlighted the role of the Arabic language in shaping the Emirati identity at a time when English grows in prominence in academic and social circles, citing her own children as an example of those 'who are able to speak English but have not forgotten their language'.
Dr Meshgan's poll platform is built on a three-point plan of making the Emirati family, Emirati leaders and the FNC effective. According to her, the FNC could be empowered through constitutional reforms.
"There is a widespread perception that our legislative process requires reform to give it inner strength," reads her press release.
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