Tuesday, 31 July 2007
By Sabria S. Jawhar
Yesterday, while I was perusing the local Arabic newspapers, I was shocked to see so many pictures of apparently grief-stricken Saudis staring out at me. At first, I assumed that during my two-day emergency vacation from the Saudi Gazette some crisis had seized the Kingdom and my compatriots had been moved to tears because of it.
I quickly learned, however, that the tears were being shed over the Saudi loss in the championship game at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup soccer tournament in Jakarta. To be honest, I also felt sad that we had lost but I did not shed any tears over it. The fact is that the cup should go to the best team and, clearly, in that particular match, at least, the Saudi national team was not the best. It didn't take an expert to see that the Saudi performance, unfortunately, was not of the championship level.
Nevertheless, the scenes of those misty eyes and tears made me ask myself when was the last time that Saudis cried over something. And what was the motive behind those tears? Speaking for myself, I cried this summer more than any other time this year.
I cried first when my flight landed in Tokyo, Japan, last month and the bus took me through the streets of that beautiful and clean city. At that time, I wondered: what is happening to my beloved country? Who is to blame for the miserable appearance of most of our big cities? Why do some of them look like old, deserted cities straight out of the 18th century?
Why don't we have a transportation system and infrastructure like that of Japan, Seoul or even Dubai? Why does it take us so long to approve a project and much longer to implement it? Certainly, it's not the lack of money or expertise? Don't we love our country enough to dedicate ourselves to developing it?
On my way back from Tokyo, I had a layover at Istanbul airport. What I saw there was far beyond my expectations. The first thing that came to mind was King Abdul Aziz Airport in Jeddah, a once beautiful lady that has lost all but just a hint of the good old days of beauty and glory.
My second stop was at Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Madina and there I experienced my greatest shock. The female waiting area in the airport was like a junkyard. The filth and disarray made it impossible to sit, let alone pray.
That scene brought tears to my eyes. If this is what we are doing to the gateway of the Prophet's Mosque and this is the image that we are projecting to the Islamic world, then it's no wonder that Jeddah airport looks as miserable as it does.
The second time I cried this summer was when I read in an Arabic newspaper about a hot debate, which denigrated the importance of women in the workplace, saying that jobs should be secured for males first. The point seemed to be that the high level of unemployment in the Kingdom was the fault of women. Some people are still demanding that women stay at home and take care of kids. The whole world is progressing. People are talking about knowledge-based economies, high technology, and the use of nuclear power for peaceful purposes and we are still fighting over whether women should work or stay at home! Tell me: do I have the right to cry over my own people casting a blind eye to the progress in the world around them while busying themselves with issues as obsolete as the Great Wall of China?
It would have been more acceptable to me if those tearful eyes I saw in Monday's newspapers were a reaction to the deteriorating situation in the region. It would have been better if we all sat and cried over the daily deaths of tens if not hundreds of innocent souls in Iraq that stem from the horrendous miscalculation of the Bush administration.
The situation in Lebanon and Palestine is another good topic to cry over. Some people may think I'm exaggerating but this is why I cried this summer. In the end, maybe my people will find themselves part of a scenario that will move them to tears for reasons other than a lost football match. It could be that Saudis, and Arabs, in general, are saving their tears for bigger things, especially in light of the announcement by Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert concerning a new $30 billion defense package to preserve Israel's regional military superiority.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
To Keep Homes Intact
Monday, 30 July 2007
Ministry recommends citizenship for foreign mothers of Saudi children
By Sabria S. Jawhar
OFFICIALS at the Ministry of Social Affairs have submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Interior that, if passed, guarantees citizenship or at least permanent residency to foreign mothers of Saudi children, an official said.
"We have submitted the proposal. We are waiting for the Ministry's (of Interior) answer as it is the only concerned authority in this matter," said Nora Aal-Al-Sheikh, director of the supervision office at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Makkah region. She said that with the increasing number of divorce cases in general and among Saudi and non-Saudi couples in particular, foreign mothers of Saudi children should be granted citizenship in order to keep their rights as well as the family ties intact.
This citizenship, she explained, could be with specific limitations in order to prevent misusing or passing it on to those who are not entitled from the mother's side.
They could also be given a permanent Iqama (residency permission) as a temporary solution, she added.
Hadyah, an Arab national who didn't want her full name or nationality published, is only one example of many women who have been victims to misuse of custody and absence of a multilateral or bilateral treaty among Arab states dealing with the enforcement of custody agreements or judgments. She was married to a Saudi man who was 23 years her senior.
The marriage was not a fruit of love or agreement. On the contrary, it was mainly motivated by her impoverished condition and his desire to wed.
"I had to support my family and help them to survive and he was the only one who offered that sort of help with the condition of my becoming his wife," she said.
Unlike most of such kind of marriages that take place outside Saudi Arabia, Hadyah's marriage was legally registered and all of her rights as a wife were kept intact.
At the beginning of the marriage, he was so kind and generous with her as well as with her family.
But the appearance of happiness did not last long as after having two babies, he grew tired of the continuous travel to her country and decided to bring her, along with their children back to the Kingdom.
Hadyah's journey of suffering began here. His behavior, she explained, dramatically changed especially in the presence of his first wife and her children.
"He started to look down on me and treat me like a maid," she said. "Sometimes, he humiliates me by talking about my family's background as if he picked me up from the street."
Having been told that in Saudi Arabia custody disputes favor the Saudi parent and often rules in favor of men, Hadyah decided to maintain her marital status intact as her main concern was to retain the custody of her children and not be forced to leave the country if divorced.
The disagreement between her and her husband reached such a level and he decided to go forth with divorcing her and keep their children under the custody of his first wife.
Since visitation rights under these circumstances are not implemented unless the Saudi parent with custody rights voluntarily puts in the effort to make arrangements, it took Hady ah nine years to see her children again.
This reunion only occurred when she obtained an Umrah visa to enter the Kingdom accompanied with her new husband.
Al-Sheikh said that such kinds of problems are common among such marriages.
Actually, she added, her administration faces such kind of custody problems even among Saudi couples when the father abuses his rights.
Usually, she added, when couples face a crises in their marriage and decide on divorce, the main issue that results in a breakdown of communication between them is with regard to the guardianship and custody of their children.
In most of the cases, she explained, the husband insists on keeping the children and deporting the mother back to her home country without any respect to her feelings as a mother. The woman, she added, finds it difficult to find someone who is ready to sponsor her due to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor that tend to limit the number of visas given to non-Saudis.
The divorce also makes it difficult for a non-Saudi woman to live in Saudi Arabia without having a fixed financial income that allows her to support herself as well as her children in case she is granted custody.
Khalid Abu Rashid, A Saudi lawyer, said that the court does not differentiate between Saudi and non-Saudi mothers when it comes to custody.
"The ruling is usually in favor of the parent who can provide the best environment for the children whether the mother or the father regardless of their nationality," Abu Rashid said.
However, he said, due to the very limited job opportunities for non-Saudi women and means of financial support, they cannot provide their children with a suitable environment.
Based on this, most of the judges rule in favor of the father who, in most cases, is capable of supporting the children financially.
In the absence of the enforcement of the law of alimony in Saudi Arabia, Nora suggested taking the alimony out of the husband's salary automatically every month. She said that there should be a system that keeps the mother with her children after divorce and grants them a good monthly income.
Those children, she added, will be part of the fabric of the Saudi society, thus should be granted a healthy family environment in which they grow up as good citizens.
"Depriving children from their mother's care will create negative emotional states among them to an extent that would increase violence and certainly reflect negatively on the society," she said.
"The system should be developed in a way that serves the society to which it was initially introduced.
Ministry recommends citizenship for foreign mothers of Saudi children
By Sabria S. Jawhar
OFFICIALS at the Ministry of Social Affairs have submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Interior that, if passed, guarantees citizenship or at least permanent residency to foreign mothers of Saudi children, an official said.
"We have submitted the proposal. We are waiting for the Ministry's (of Interior) answer as it is the only concerned authority in this matter," said Nora Aal-Al-Sheikh, director of the supervision office at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Makkah region. She said that with the increasing number of divorce cases in general and among Saudi and non-Saudi couples in particular, foreign mothers of Saudi children should be granted citizenship in order to keep their rights as well as the family ties intact.
This citizenship, she explained, could be with specific limitations in order to prevent misusing or passing it on to those who are not entitled from the mother's side.
They could also be given a permanent Iqama (residency permission) as a temporary solution, she added.
Hadyah, an Arab national who didn't want her full name or nationality published, is only one example of many women who have been victims to misuse of custody and absence of a multilateral or bilateral treaty among Arab states dealing with the enforcement of custody agreements or judgments. She was married to a Saudi man who was 23 years her senior.
The marriage was not a fruit of love or agreement. On the contrary, it was mainly motivated by her impoverished condition and his desire to wed.
"I had to support my family and help them to survive and he was the only one who offered that sort of help with the condition of my becoming his wife," she said.
Unlike most of such kind of marriages that take place outside Saudi Arabia, Hadyah's marriage was legally registered and all of her rights as a wife were kept intact.
At the beginning of the marriage, he was so kind and generous with her as well as with her family.
But the appearance of happiness did not last long as after having two babies, he grew tired of the continuous travel to her country and decided to bring her, along with their children back to the Kingdom.
Hadyah's journey of suffering began here. His behavior, she explained, dramatically changed especially in the presence of his first wife and her children.
"He started to look down on me and treat me like a maid," she said. "Sometimes, he humiliates me by talking about my family's background as if he picked me up from the street."
Having been told that in Saudi Arabia custody disputes favor the Saudi parent and often rules in favor of men, Hadyah decided to maintain her marital status intact as her main concern was to retain the custody of her children and not be forced to leave the country if divorced.
The disagreement between her and her husband reached such a level and he decided to go forth with divorcing her and keep their children under the custody of his first wife.
Since visitation rights under these circumstances are not implemented unless the Saudi parent with custody rights voluntarily puts in the effort to make arrangements, it took Hady ah nine years to see her children again.
This reunion only occurred when she obtained an Umrah visa to enter the Kingdom accompanied with her new husband.
Al-Sheikh said that such kinds of problems are common among such marriages.
Actually, she added, her administration faces such kind of custody problems even among Saudi couples when the father abuses his rights.
Usually, she added, when couples face a crises in their marriage and decide on divorce, the main issue that results in a breakdown of communication between them is with regard to the guardianship and custody of their children.
In most of the cases, she explained, the husband insists on keeping the children and deporting the mother back to her home country without any respect to her feelings as a mother. The woman, she added, finds it difficult to find someone who is ready to sponsor her due to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor that tend to limit the number of visas given to non-Saudis.
The divorce also makes it difficult for a non-Saudi woman to live in Saudi Arabia without having a fixed financial income that allows her to support herself as well as her children in case she is granted custody.
Khalid Abu Rashid, A Saudi lawyer, said that the court does not differentiate between Saudi and non-Saudi mothers when it comes to custody.
"The ruling is usually in favor of the parent who can provide the best environment for the children whether the mother or the father regardless of their nationality," Abu Rashid said.
However, he said, due to the very limited job opportunities for non-Saudi women and means of financial support, they cannot provide their children with a suitable environment.
Based on this, most of the judges rule in favor of the father who, in most cases, is capable of supporting the children financially.
In the absence of the enforcement of the law of alimony in Saudi Arabia, Nora suggested taking the alimony out of the husband's salary automatically every month. She said that there should be a system that keeps the mother with her children after divorce and grants them a good monthly income.
Those children, she added, will be part of the fabric of the Saudi society, thus should be granted a healthy family environment in which they grow up as good citizens.
"Depriving children from their mother's care will create negative emotional states among them to an extent that would increase violence and certainly reflect negatively on the society," she said.
"The system should be developed in a way that serves the society to which it was initially introduced.
Monday, July 30, 2007
To Keep Homes Intact
Monday, 30 July 2007
Ministry recommends citizenship for foreign mothers of Saudi children
By Sabria S. Jawhar
OFFICIALS at the Ministry of Social Affairs have submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Interior that, if passed, guarantees citizenship or at least permanent residency to foreign mothers of Saudi children, an official said.
"We have submitted the proposal. We are waiting for the Ministry's (of Interior) answer as it is the only concerned authority in this matter," said Nora Aal-Al-Sheikh, director of the supervision office at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Makkah region. She said that with the increasing number of divorce cases in general and among Saudi and non-Saudi couples in particular, foreign mothers of Saudi children should be granted citizenship in order to keep their rights as well as the family ties intact.
This citizenship, she explained, could be with specific limitations in order to prevent misusing or passing it on to those who are not entitled from the mother's side.
They could also be given a permanent Iqama (residency permission) as a temporary solution, she added.
Hadyah, an Arab national who didn't want her full name or nationality published, is only one example of many women who have been victims to misuse of custody and absence of a multilateral or bilateral treaty among Arab states dealing with the enforcement of custody agreements or judgments. She was married to a Saudi man who was 23 years her senior.
The marriage was not a fruit of love or agreement. On the contrary, it was mainly motivated by her impoverished condition and his desire to wed.
"I had to support my family and help them to survive and he was the only one who offered that sort of help with the condition of my becoming his wife," she said.
Unlike most of such kind of marriages that take place outside Saudi Arabia, Hadyah's marriage was legally registered and all of her rights as a wife were kept intact.
At the beginning of the marriage, he was so kind and generous with her as well as with her family.
But the appearance of happiness did not last long as after having two babies, he grew tired of the continuous travel to her country and decided to bring her, along with their children back to the Kingdom.
Hadyah's journey of suffering began here. His behavior, she explained, dramatically changed especially in the presence of his first wife and her children.
"He started to look down on me and treat me like a maid," she said. "Sometimes, he humiliates me by talking about my family's background as if he picked me up from the street."
Having been told that in Saudi Arabia custody disputes favor the Saudi parent and often rules in favor of men, Hadyah decided to maintain her marital status intact as her main concern was to retain the custody of her children and not be forced to leave the country if divorced.
The disagreement between her and her husband reached such a level and he decided to go forth with divorcing her and keep their children under the custody of his first wife.
Since visitation rights under these circumstances are not implemented unless the Saudi parent with custody rights voluntarily puts in the effort to make arrangements, it took Hady ah nine years to see her children again.
This reunion only occurred when she obtained an Umrah visa to enter the Kingdom accompanied with her new husband.
Al-Sheikh said that such kinds of problems are common among such marriages.
Actually, she added, her administration faces such kind of custody problems even among Saudi couples when the father abuses his rights.
Usually, she added, when couples face a crises in their marriage and decide on divorce, the main issue that results in a breakdown of communication between them is with regard to the guardianship and custody of their children.
In most of the cases, she explained, the husband insists on keeping the children and deporting the mother back to her home country without any respect to her feelings as a mother. The woman, she added, finds it difficult to find someone who is ready to sponsor her due to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor that tend to limit the number of visas given to non-Saudis.
The divorce also makes it difficult for a non-Saudi woman to live in Saudi Arabia without having a fixed financial income that allows her to support herself as well as her children in case she is granted custody.
Khalid Abu Rashid, A Saudi lawyer, said that the court does not differentiate between Saudi and non-Saudi mothers when it comes to custody.
"The ruling is usually in favor of the parent who can provide the best environment for the children whether the mother or the father regardless of their nationality," Abu Rashid said.
However, he said, due to the very limited job opportunities for non-Saudi women and means of financial support, they cannot provide their children with a suitable environment.
Based on this, most of the judges rule in favor of the father who, in most cases, is capable of supporting the children financially.
In the absence of the enforcement of the law of alimony in Saudi Arabia, Nora suggested taking the alimony out of the husband's salary automatically every month. She said that there should be a system that keeps the mother with her children after divorce and grants them a good monthly income.
Those children, she added, will be part of the fabric of the Saudi society, thus should be granted a healthy family environment in which they grow up as good citizens.
"Depriving children from their mother's care will create negative emotional states among them to an extent that would increase violence and certainly reflect negatively on the society," she said.
"The system should be developed in a way that serves the society to which it was initially introduced.
Ministry recommends citizenship for foreign mothers of Saudi children
By Sabria S. Jawhar
OFFICIALS at the Ministry of Social Affairs have submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Interior that, if passed, guarantees citizenship or at least permanent residency to foreign mothers of Saudi children, an official said.
"We have submitted the proposal. We are waiting for the Ministry's (of Interior) answer as it is the only concerned authority in this matter," said Nora Aal-Al-Sheikh, director of the supervision office at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Makkah region. She said that with the increasing number of divorce cases in general and among Saudi and non-Saudi couples in particular, foreign mothers of Saudi children should be granted citizenship in order to keep their rights as well as the family ties intact.
This citizenship, she explained, could be with specific limitations in order to prevent misusing or passing it on to those who are not entitled from the mother's side.
They could also be given a permanent Iqama (residency permission) as a temporary solution, she added.
Hadyah, an Arab national who didn't want her full name or nationality published, is only one example of many women who have been victims to misuse of custody and absence of a multilateral or bilateral treaty among Arab states dealing with the enforcement of custody agreements or judgments. She was married to a Saudi man who was 23 years her senior.
The marriage was not a fruit of love or agreement. On the contrary, it was mainly motivated by her impoverished condition and his desire to wed.
"I had to support my family and help them to survive and he was the only one who offered that sort of help with the condition of my becoming his wife," she said.
Unlike most of such kind of marriages that take place outside Saudi Arabia, Hadyah's marriage was legally registered and all of her rights as a wife were kept intact.
At the beginning of the marriage, he was so kind and generous with her as well as with her family.
But the appearance of happiness did not last long as after having two babies, he grew tired of the continuous travel to her country and decided to bring her, along with their children back to the Kingdom.
Hadyah's journey of suffering began here. His behavior, she explained, dramatically changed especially in the presence of his first wife and her children.
"He started to look down on me and treat me like a maid," she said. "Sometimes, he humiliates me by talking about my family's background as if he picked me up from the street."
Having been told that in Saudi Arabia custody disputes favor the Saudi parent and often rules in favor of men, Hadyah decided to maintain her marital status intact as her main concern was to retain the custody of her children and not be forced to leave the country if divorced.
The disagreement between her and her husband reached such a level and he decided to go forth with divorcing her and keep their children under the custody of his first wife.
Since visitation rights under these circumstances are not implemented unless the Saudi parent with custody rights voluntarily puts in the effort to make arrangements, it took Hady ah nine years to see her children again.
This reunion only occurred when she obtained an Umrah visa to enter the Kingdom accompanied with her new husband.
Al-Sheikh said that such kinds of problems are common among such marriages.
Actually, she added, her administration faces such kind of custody problems even among Saudi couples when the father abuses his rights.
Usually, she added, when couples face a crises in their marriage and decide on divorce, the main issue that results in a breakdown of communication between them is with regard to the guardianship and custody of their children.
In most of the cases, she explained, the husband insists on keeping the children and deporting the mother back to her home country without any respect to her feelings as a mother. The woman, she added, finds it difficult to find someone who is ready to sponsor her due to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor that tend to limit the number of visas given to non-Saudis.
The divorce also makes it difficult for a non-Saudi woman to live in Saudi Arabia without having a fixed financial income that allows her to support herself as well as her children in case she is granted custody.
Khalid Abu Rashid, A Saudi lawyer, said that the court does not differentiate between Saudi and non-Saudi mothers when it comes to custody.
"The ruling is usually in favor of the parent who can provide the best environment for the children whether the mother or the father regardless of their nationality," Abu Rashid said.
However, he said, due to the very limited job opportunities for non-Saudi women and means of financial support, they cannot provide their children with a suitable environment.
Based on this, most of the judges rule in favor of the father who, in most cases, is capable of supporting the children financially.
In the absence of the enforcement of the law of alimony in Saudi Arabia, Nora suggested taking the alimony out of the husband's salary automatically every month. She said that there should be a system that keeps the mother with her children after divorce and grants them a good monthly income.
Those children, she added, will be part of the fabric of the Saudi society, thus should be granted a healthy family environment in which they grow up as good citizens.
"Depriving children from their mother's care will create negative emotional states among them to an extent that would increase violence and certainly reflect negatively on the society," she said.
"The system should be developed in a way that serves the society to which it was initially introduced.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Women Seek Exclusive Driving Club
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
By Khozaima Al-Attas
JEDDAH Mayor Adel Fakeeh was taken off-guard Monday when about 150 women, both students and workers, asked him to approve a special driving club for women where they can learn driving to deal with emergencies.
They also sought his support for reactivating the Labor Ministry decision to limit the jobs in lingerie shops to saleswomen.
Fakeeh expressed his reservation about these demands on grounds that their implementation doesn't fall under the jurisdiction of the mayoralty.
The role of the mayoralty is limited to granting a piece of land for the construction of the club once the authorities concerned approve the proposal.
Driving debate has been raging in the Kingdom ever since King Abdullah left open the possibility that women may be allowed to drive.
Information Minister Iyad Madani at the Jeddah Economic Forum last year said there was nothing in the law preventing women from obtaining a license.
"There is nothing in the law that prevents women from applying for a driver's license," he said.
As far as reserving jobs for women in lingerie shops is concerned, the deadline to replace salesmen with saleswomen was postponed last year for an undetermined period.
Labor Minister Dr. Ghazi Al-Gosaibi made this decision following a representation by shop owners that they cannot meet the requirements of the Cabinet order within the specified deadline.
The Cabinet had set June 20, 2006, as the deadline to replace salesmen with saleswomen at all lingerie shops. The deadline to hire women in abaya shops and women-exclusive garment stores was June 9, 2007.
The Cabinet took the decision last June and businesses were given a year to prepare for implementation.
Statistics show that there are around 49 shopping malls and centers in Jeddah with around 247 shops to sell women's wears, 38 percent of the shops are for lingerie with only 15 percent of women sellers from the estimated number 879 employees.
The group of women, which met Adel Fakeeh Monday, also asked for the construction of playgrounds and sport clubs exclusively for women at the beach.
They also suggested construction of public libraries fully devoted to women.
They asked the mayor to open special sections in the mayoralty for women to enable them to follow their transactions themselves.
Feekeh revealed that the mayoralty's next budget will include allocations for securing jobs to Saudi women. The mayoralty will also open a special department to serve businesswomen.
He said the mayoralty has devoted Monday and Wednesday to serve women to follow up their transactions until a special section for women services is ready next year.
By Khozaima Al-Attas
JEDDAH Mayor Adel Fakeeh was taken off-guard Monday when about 150 women, both students and workers, asked him to approve a special driving club for women where they can learn driving to deal with emergencies.
They also sought his support for reactivating the Labor Ministry decision to limit the jobs in lingerie shops to saleswomen.
Fakeeh expressed his reservation about these demands on grounds that their implementation doesn't fall under the jurisdiction of the mayoralty.
The role of the mayoralty is limited to granting a piece of land for the construction of the club once the authorities concerned approve the proposal.
Driving debate has been raging in the Kingdom ever since King Abdullah left open the possibility that women may be allowed to drive.
Information Minister Iyad Madani at the Jeddah Economic Forum last year said there was nothing in the law preventing women from obtaining a license.
"There is nothing in the law that prevents women from applying for a driver's license," he said.
As far as reserving jobs for women in lingerie shops is concerned, the deadline to replace salesmen with saleswomen was postponed last year for an undetermined period.
Labor Minister Dr. Ghazi Al-Gosaibi made this decision following a representation by shop owners that they cannot meet the requirements of the Cabinet order within the specified deadline.
The Cabinet had set June 20, 2006, as the deadline to replace salesmen with saleswomen at all lingerie shops. The deadline to hire women in abaya shops and women-exclusive garment stores was June 9, 2007.
The Cabinet took the decision last June and businesses were given a year to prepare for implementation.
Statistics show that there are around 49 shopping malls and centers in Jeddah with around 247 shops to sell women's wears, 38 percent of the shops are for lingerie with only 15 percent of women sellers from the estimated number 879 employees.
The group of women, which met Adel Fakeeh Monday, also asked for the construction of playgrounds and sport clubs exclusively for women at the beach.
They also suggested construction of public libraries fully devoted to women.
They asked the mayor to open special sections in the mayoralty for women to enable them to follow their transactions themselves.
Feekeh revealed that the mayoralty's next budget will include allocations for securing jobs to Saudi women. The mayoralty will also open a special department to serve businesswomen.
He said the mayoralty has devoted Monday and Wednesday to serve women to follow up their transactions until a special section for women services is ready next year.
Consumer Protection Agencies Approved
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
Saudi Gazette
THE Cabinet in Jeddah Monday approved the establishment of two agencies to protect the rights of consumers.
The first one, called Deputy Ministry for Consumer Affairs, will be part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It will supervise services offered to consumers by various administrations of the Ministry.
The second one, called the Consumer Protection Society, is a private entity that will look after the consumers' interest and defend their rights.
It will also help authorities spread consumer awareness and protect consumers from deception, forgery and misrepresentation of commodities and services, including imported and locally manufactured food and pharmaceutical products.
Citizens with special interest and expertise on consumer protection issues will be on the board of the society's general assembly.
The Cabinet, presided over by King Abdullah, called upon the ministries of Municipal and Rural Affairs, Agriculture, Commerce and Industry, Health, as well as Saudi Arabian Standards Organization, Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and Customs Department to strengthen and reinforce their roles in protecting consumers' rights.
At present, consumer concerns in the Kingdom are handled by chambers of commerce and industry through consumer protection committees in most of them.
These committees at the chambers of commerce and industry participate along with other technical and general committees and the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) board of directors in setting quality standards of food and drug.
Most government agencies have departments to ensure consumer protection in collaboration with SASO.
The Cabinet also approved the academic calendar for the next 10 years.
The academic year has been split into two semesters. The duration of each semester will be at least 15 weeks, including the examination period.
Eid holidays for government employees will also apply to universities and schools.
King Abdullah also briefed the Council on the outcome of his meetings with the leaders of Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, Egypt, and Jordan.
King Abdullah expressed confidence that the Spanish, French and Polish leadership will consolidate their positive roles in enabling the Palestinian people to restore their legitimate rights and help Iraq achieve its national unity.
Saudi Gazette
THE Cabinet in Jeddah Monday approved the establishment of two agencies to protect the rights of consumers.
The first one, called Deputy Ministry for Consumer Affairs, will be part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It will supervise services offered to consumers by various administrations of the Ministry.
The second one, called the Consumer Protection Society, is a private entity that will look after the consumers' interest and defend their rights.
It will also help authorities spread consumer awareness and protect consumers from deception, forgery and misrepresentation of commodities and services, including imported and locally manufactured food and pharmaceutical products.
Citizens with special interest and expertise on consumer protection issues will be on the board of the society's general assembly.
The Cabinet, presided over by King Abdullah, called upon the ministries of Municipal and Rural Affairs, Agriculture, Commerce and Industry, Health, as well as Saudi Arabian Standards Organization, Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and Customs Department to strengthen and reinforce their roles in protecting consumers' rights.
At present, consumer concerns in the Kingdom are handled by chambers of commerce and industry through consumer protection committees in most of them.
These committees at the chambers of commerce and industry participate along with other technical and general committees and the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) board of directors in setting quality standards of food and drug.
Most government agencies have departments to ensure consumer protection in collaboration with SASO.
The Cabinet also approved the academic calendar for the next 10 years.
The academic year has been split into two semesters. The duration of each semester will be at least 15 weeks, including the examination period.
Eid holidays for government employees will also apply to universities and schools.
King Abdullah also briefed the Council on the outcome of his meetings with the leaders of Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, Egypt, and Jordan.
King Abdullah expressed confidence that the Spanish, French and Polish leadership will consolidate their positive roles in enabling the Palestinian people to restore their legitimate rights and help Iraq achieve its national unity.
More Beggars Flood Streets
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
Saudi Gazette
THE number of beggars in the Kingdom has ballooned in the last two years, according to the latest statistics of the Ministry of Social Affairs published in Al-Madina Arabic language newspaper Sunday.
Some 81 percent of the beggars are expatriates. Their number grew to 24,771 from 15,015 in two years. Saudi beggars in different regions also rose 40 percent from 3,630 to 5,317 in two years.
Many of the beggars do not have chronic diseases or permanent disabilities.
Four government departments are preparing a national plan that includes formation of local committees in Taif, Makkah and Jeddah to arrest beggars and hand them over to authorities.
It is in line with the order of the Council of Ministers to rid Saudi Arabia of beggary.
Dr. Sa'eed Al-Ghamdi, Director General of Social Affairs in Makkah, has submitted a plan in this regard to Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah Province.
Statistics last year found that begging among children was on the rise in Makkah, especially around the Grand Mosque.
Some of the arrested child beggars said their fathers dumped them on the street, where they spent more than 12 hours at traffic lights. Their fathers would collect the proceeds when they returned home.
A. Kh., a 14-year-old beggar, said, "I have been begging for many years. My father dumps me at the traffic lights and in the Central Area surrounding the Grand Mosque. When I spot the Immigration (Passports) Department's men or the Vagrancy Combat Office teams, I mix with the worshipers. During a day I collect at least SR200. When I return home, I find my father waiting for me to take the proceeds. I came to know many other beggars old and young. Each one has his trick to win sympathy. Some of them pretend to be handicapped while others make sure to win the sympathy of the worshipers and get money. We know the rich from their appearance. We know where they are staying and in what hotels. We stand near their luxurious cars. One woman gave me more than SR1,000. When she saw my health condition, she sympathized with me."
Last year, 4,228 male and female beggars were apprehended.
Non-Saudi beggar is handed over to the Committee for Investigating Expatriate Beggars that is an affiliate of Makkah Police so that the necessary measures are taken. In brief, they are deported to their respective countries.
However, if the beggar is a Saudi national, he is handed over to the Vagrancy Combat Office so that sociologists study his case to know the reasons for begging. If the study shows that he is in need, he is transferred to the charitable societies to help or to the General Organization for Social Insurance. If he is disabled and nobody is there to take care of him, he is transferred to the social care home.
Saudi Gazette
THE number of beggars in the Kingdom has ballooned in the last two years, according to the latest statistics of the Ministry of Social Affairs published in Al-Madina Arabic language newspaper Sunday.
Some 81 percent of the beggars are expatriates. Their number grew to 24,771 from 15,015 in two years. Saudi beggars in different regions also rose 40 percent from 3,630 to 5,317 in two years.
Many of the beggars do not have chronic diseases or permanent disabilities.
Four government departments are preparing a national plan that includes formation of local committees in Taif, Makkah and Jeddah to arrest beggars and hand them over to authorities.
It is in line with the order of the Council of Ministers to rid Saudi Arabia of beggary.
Dr. Sa'eed Al-Ghamdi, Director General of Social Affairs in Makkah, has submitted a plan in this regard to Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah Province.
Statistics last year found that begging among children was on the rise in Makkah, especially around the Grand Mosque.
Some of the arrested child beggars said their fathers dumped them on the street, where they spent more than 12 hours at traffic lights. Their fathers would collect the proceeds when they returned home.
A. Kh., a 14-year-old beggar, said, "I have been begging for many years. My father dumps me at the traffic lights and in the Central Area surrounding the Grand Mosque. When I spot the Immigration (Passports) Department's men or the Vagrancy Combat Office teams, I mix with the worshipers. During a day I collect at least SR200. When I return home, I find my father waiting for me to take the proceeds. I came to know many other beggars old and young. Each one has his trick to win sympathy. Some of them pretend to be handicapped while others make sure to win the sympathy of the worshipers and get money. We know the rich from their appearance. We know where they are staying and in what hotels. We stand near their luxurious cars. One woman gave me more than SR1,000. When she saw my health condition, she sympathized with me."
Last year, 4,228 male and female beggars were apprehended.
Non-Saudi beggar is handed over to the Committee for Investigating Expatriate Beggars that is an affiliate of Makkah Police so that the necessary measures are taken. In brief, they are deported to their respective countries.
However, if the beggar is a Saudi national, he is handed over to the Vagrancy Combat Office so that sociologists study his case to know the reasons for begging. If the study shows that he is in need, he is transferred to the charitable societies to help or to the General Organization for Social Insurance. If he is disabled and nobody is there to take care of him, he is transferred to the social care home.
3,106 in Custody for Terror Links – Naif
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
Agencies
AUTHORITIES have arrested 9,000 people during anti-terror operations over the past four years, Interior Minister Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz said in comments published, Monday.
Except for 3,106, most of these arrested people have been released, Arabic language daily quoted him as saying.
"The security forces have foiled 180 terrorist operations," Prince Naif said.
If only 10 percent of these operations had succeeded, the Kingdom would have faced "catastrophe," he said, adding that the extremists' "huge plan" had been disrupted.
His comments come a day after he announced the formation of special security forces to protect the Kingdom's vast oil infrastructure from attacks.
"Preparations are underway to put in place a force of 35,000 men to assure the protection of the industrial installations," he said.
The first units from the new force would be deployed to protect oil infrastructure.
Security forces thwarted an alleged Al-Qaeda suicide car bomb attack against Abqaiq oil processing facility in February last year. Two members of the security forces and two assailants were killed.
Oil prices leapt in the immediate aftermath of that incident.
The Kingdom has been battling suspected Al-Qaeda militants since they launched a wave of shootings and bombings, many targeting Westerners, in May 2003.
In April this year the interior ministry said 172 terror suspects had been rounded up in one security operation, along with weapons and cash.
Some of the militants were allegedly plotting airborne attacks on oil facilities and army bases.
Earlier this month, Prince Naif announced the establishment of two courts - one in Riyadh and one in Jeddah - to speed up the trials of terrorist suspects.
Saudi Arabia has already created a state security court to try terror-related cases.
The special tribunal comprises five to seven judges, nominated by the justice and interior ministers and appointed by King Abdullah.
Earlier this year, Saudi security forces arrested 10 people accused of staging a massive fund-raising operation to send insurgents to Iraq and other troubled spots in the Middle East.
Security men conducted raids in Jeddah and Madina, arresting nine Saudis and one foreigner and seizing a "huge amount" of cash.
Seven Saudis were arrested at a house in Jeddah and two taken into custody in Madina. The nationality of the foreigner was not released.
The Ministry of Interior issued a statement Jan. 22 warning against collecting donations for groups not registered with the government.
Agencies
AUTHORITIES have arrested 9,000 people during anti-terror operations over the past four years, Interior Minister Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz said in comments published, Monday.
Except for 3,106, most of these arrested people have been released, Arabic language daily quoted him as saying.
"The security forces have foiled 180 terrorist operations," Prince Naif said.
If only 10 percent of these operations had succeeded, the Kingdom would have faced "catastrophe," he said, adding that the extremists' "huge plan" had been disrupted.
His comments come a day after he announced the formation of special security forces to protect the Kingdom's vast oil infrastructure from attacks.
"Preparations are underway to put in place a force of 35,000 men to assure the protection of the industrial installations," he said.
The first units from the new force would be deployed to protect oil infrastructure.
Security forces thwarted an alleged Al-Qaeda suicide car bomb attack against Abqaiq oil processing facility in February last year. Two members of the security forces and two assailants were killed.
Oil prices leapt in the immediate aftermath of that incident.
The Kingdom has been battling suspected Al-Qaeda militants since they launched a wave of shootings and bombings, many targeting Westerners, in May 2003.
In April this year the interior ministry said 172 terror suspects had been rounded up in one security operation, along with weapons and cash.
Some of the militants were allegedly plotting airborne attacks on oil facilities and army bases.
Earlier this month, Prince Naif announced the establishment of two courts - one in Riyadh and one in Jeddah - to speed up the trials of terrorist suspects.
Saudi Arabia has already created a state security court to try terror-related cases.
The special tribunal comprises five to seven judges, nominated by the justice and interior ministers and appointed by King Abdullah.
Earlier this year, Saudi security forces arrested 10 people accused of staging a massive fund-raising operation to send insurgents to Iraq and other troubled spots in the Middle East.
Security men conducted raids in Jeddah and Madina, arresting nine Saudis and one foreigner and seizing a "huge amount" of cash.
Seven Saudis were arrested at a house in Jeddah and two taken into custody in Madina. The nationality of the foreigner was not released.
The Ministry of Interior issued a statement Jan. 22 warning against collecting donations for groups not registered with the government.
Peace a Wild Dream
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
By Sabria S Jawhar
THE United Nations, from the outset, has always endeavored to address the conflict in the Middle East in a manner that saves lives and improves security. However, all its efforts have failed to bring about peace in the region. Today, the situation is at its worst because of the US policy of aggression in the region and the continuation of its blatant support to Israel, which has encouraged the Jewish state to reject and sabotage various peace initiatives over the years.
Last week, the Department of Public Information at the United Nations held a seminar on peace in the Middle East in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in Tokyo. The seminar aimed at restoring the path to peace by reengaging Israeli and Palestinians in the search for a comprehensive and lasting political settlement. It brought together almost 100 participants from the Middle East and other parts of the world. Current and former policymakers, parliamentarians, representatives of civil societies and labor unions, mayors, academics and journalists were among the participants.
Yet, despite the high-profile participation, the seminar failed to come up with even a list of recommendations that can be followed up some day. It also fell short of convincing some of the participants to overcome their ill will towards each other, which resulted in the discussion being reduced to a bitter argument that was unprofessional despite the organizers' best efforts to create a friendly atmosphere.
For me, the seminar was nothing but a reflection of the real big picture of the situation in the region. If we are ever to achieve peace in the Middle East, I wonder, do we need a new approach? Why have previous efforts to achieve peace failed? What led to the present situation of unbridled violence and loss of life?
From the Madrid and Oslo accords in 1991-93 to the Arab Initiative of 2007, the international community has been yearning for peace through a strong political settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which guarantees peace and a secure future for a new Palestinian state and for Israel as well.
But peace will remain elusive so long as Israel wields the power to resist moves to find a solution to the Palestinian issue. Simply put, the scale of power weighs heavily in favor of Israel.
There is no denying that the US government has contributed to this power imbalance with its huge financial and military support to Israel over the decades. US aid to Israel exceeds the amount of foreign aid it provides to any other country. In contrast, the US began providing limited financial assistance to the Palestinian Authority only since 2002.
Now, following the violent takeover of Gaza by Hamas, the US government, which regards Hamas as a terrorist organization, aims to pour money, aid and political recognition on the West Bank. But how can the US ever be committed to the West Bank and Gaza as it struggles to extricate itself from the Iraqi quagmire, especially with the mounting pressure inside the US for withdrawal? What will happen if those anti-war advocates win?
Another obstacle to peace is the US habit of using its veto power to strike down UN Security Council resolutions that criticize Israeli actions, even as it condemns other nations for similar actions. This favoritism and unlimited support to Israel by the US, along with its wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, have compelled many in the region to perceive the US as a cruel occupying power. It has created an increasing feeling of ill-will against Israel, the US and the countries supporting US foreign policy. US policy regarding Israel, Afghanistan and Iraq, and its threatening manner towards Iran, have angered youths in the region and led to the creation of several extremist organizations with their individual anti-US and anti-Israel agendas.
When Hamas got involved in the political process in Palestine and gave up its role as a resistance group, it won 62 percent of the Palestinian vote in an election that was deemed legal by the international community. But rather than honor the will of the Palestinians to practice democracy through a legal election, the US criticizes Hamas as a terrorist organization and declares it would not work or cooperate with the newly elected government.
The blockade and isolation of Hamas by the US and Israel created confusion. Even Hamas leaders did not know what role to play - resistance or a legal government? Following the disagreement between Hamas and Fatah that temporarily ended with the Makkah agreement, Hamas agreed to fall in line, accepting the least influential ministries and with the minimum authority. But did this put an end to its isolation? The answer is No.
Let's take as an example the Arab peace initiative that was initiated at the Beirut summit in 2002 and collectively agreed upon at the Riyadh summit in 2007. The initiative tackled most, if not all, the major issues between the two sides. Considered a progressive proposal, it calls for Israel to withdraw its forces from all the Occupied Territories, including the Golan Heights, to recognize "an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital" in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as well as a "just solution" for the Palestinian refugees wanting to return to their homes. In exchange, the Arab states affirmed they would recognize the state of Israel, consider the Arab-Israeli conflict over and establish "normal relations" with Israel.
In response, Israel is still imposing conditions for negotiations that make the whole process nothing but a wild dream.
The US and Israel seem also to be overlooking the role of Iran and Syria in the peace process, with whom they refuse to negotiate. While the US, in the past few months, has loosened its rigid position of not negotiating with Iran and Syria - although it's still a long way from meaningful dialogue - it continues its counterproductive polices by hinting at possible military action against both countries but for different reasons. The point, though, is that the more the US escalates its threats against those two influential countries in the region, the more they will create trouble by provoking extremist groups.
The insecurity and instability that such countries are able to create by using their influence would generate a new generation of extremists who believe in nothing but violence as a way of obtaining political gains; a new generation that is well-versed in technology and scientific infrastructure of modernity; a generation that embraces modern technology but rejects cultural modernity including democracy.
With the shocking developments in Gaza, the peace process dream seems to have become unattainable. This deteriorated situation is a natural outcome of the Bush administration's six years of negligence.
Are the US and Israel aware of the consequences of the collapse of the unity government and the isolation of Hamas in the Gaza Strip? The answer is no as it seems that they have both found a good opportunity in this development.
The US and Israel certainly had their own agendas in mind when they quickly expressed support for the Palestinian Authority. It seems that the Bush administration is aiming to guide the West Bank towards significantly better living standards, by providing political, economic and military support, while at the same time seeking to teach Hamas a lesson by leaving the people in Gaza to languish in poverty and misery through the economic blockade and political isolation.
Maybe it is trying to force Hamas supporters, both in Gaza and West Bank, to turn away and align themselves with Fatah, accusing Hamas of being the main reason behind their misery.
This scenario is likely but officials in the US have to keep in mind other scenarios too. For instance, the support that Hamas gets from Iran and Syria, What if Hamas manages to establish a lawful and prosperous nation? What if it succeeds in bringing about security? By isolating Hamas, the US and Israel are giving it a chance to reorganize its military operations and start a new furious wave of resistance. If Hamas loses control of Gaza, this would open the gate for terrorist groups from all over the world to turn it into a new training ground for terrorists to target Israeli and American interests in the region.
The solution to the Middle East crisis doesn't lie in the region. On the contrary, it lies in Washington. Any delay in accepting comprehensive initiatives such as that of the Riyadh summit will worsen the situation and make the confrontation more violent and bloody. It will also create an atmosphere for terrorism that would be exported not only to the neighboring countries but also to the rest of the world.
By Sabria S Jawhar
THE United Nations, from the outset, has always endeavored to address the conflict in the Middle East in a manner that saves lives and improves security. However, all its efforts have failed to bring about peace in the region. Today, the situation is at its worst because of the US policy of aggression in the region and the continuation of its blatant support to Israel, which has encouraged the Jewish state to reject and sabotage various peace initiatives over the years.
Last week, the Department of Public Information at the United Nations held a seminar on peace in the Middle East in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in Tokyo. The seminar aimed at restoring the path to peace by reengaging Israeli and Palestinians in the search for a comprehensive and lasting political settlement. It brought together almost 100 participants from the Middle East and other parts of the world. Current and former policymakers, parliamentarians, representatives of civil societies and labor unions, mayors, academics and journalists were among the participants.
Yet, despite the high-profile participation, the seminar failed to come up with even a list of recommendations that can be followed up some day. It also fell short of convincing some of the participants to overcome their ill will towards each other, which resulted in the discussion being reduced to a bitter argument that was unprofessional despite the organizers' best efforts to create a friendly atmosphere.
For me, the seminar was nothing but a reflection of the real big picture of the situation in the region. If we are ever to achieve peace in the Middle East, I wonder, do we need a new approach? Why have previous efforts to achieve peace failed? What led to the present situation of unbridled violence and loss of life?
From the Madrid and Oslo accords in 1991-93 to the Arab Initiative of 2007, the international community has been yearning for peace through a strong political settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which guarantees peace and a secure future for a new Palestinian state and for Israel as well.
But peace will remain elusive so long as Israel wields the power to resist moves to find a solution to the Palestinian issue. Simply put, the scale of power weighs heavily in favor of Israel.
There is no denying that the US government has contributed to this power imbalance with its huge financial and military support to Israel over the decades. US aid to Israel exceeds the amount of foreign aid it provides to any other country. In contrast, the US began providing limited financial assistance to the Palestinian Authority only since 2002.
Now, following the violent takeover of Gaza by Hamas, the US government, which regards Hamas as a terrorist organization, aims to pour money, aid and political recognition on the West Bank. But how can the US ever be committed to the West Bank and Gaza as it struggles to extricate itself from the Iraqi quagmire, especially with the mounting pressure inside the US for withdrawal? What will happen if those anti-war advocates win?
Another obstacle to peace is the US habit of using its veto power to strike down UN Security Council resolutions that criticize Israeli actions, even as it condemns other nations for similar actions. This favoritism and unlimited support to Israel by the US, along with its wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, have compelled many in the region to perceive the US as a cruel occupying power. It has created an increasing feeling of ill-will against Israel, the US and the countries supporting US foreign policy. US policy regarding Israel, Afghanistan and Iraq, and its threatening manner towards Iran, have angered youths in the region and led to the creation of several extremist organizations with their individual anti-US and anti-Israel agendas.
When Hamas got involved in the political process in Palestine and gave up its role as a resistance group, it won 62 percent of the Palestinian vote in an election that was deemed legal by the international community. But rather than honor the will of the Palestinians to practice democracy through a legal election, the US criticizes Hamas as a terrorist organization and declares it would not work or cooperate with the newly elected government.
The blockade and isolation of Hamas by the US and Israel created confusion. Even Hamas leaders did not know what role to play - resistance or a legal government? Following the disagreement between Hamas and Fatah that temporarily ended with the Makkah agreement, Hamas agreed to fall in line, accepting the least influential ministries and with the minimum authority. But did this put an end to its isolation? The answer is No.
Let's take as an example the Arab peace initiative that was initiated at the Beirut summit in 2002 and collectively agreed upon at the Riyadh summit in 2007. The initiative tackled most, if not all, the major issues between the two sides. Considered a progressive proposal, it calls for Israel to withdraw its forces from all the Occupied Territories, including the Golan Heights, to recognize "an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital" in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as well as a "just solution" for the Palestinian refugees wanting to return to their homes. In exchange, the Arab states affirmed they would recognize the state of Israel, consider the Arab-Israeli conflict over and establish "normal relations" with Israel.
In response, Israel is still imposing conditions for negotiations that make the whole process nothing but a wild dream.
The US and Israel seem also to be overlooking the role of Iran and Syria in the peace process, with whom they refuse to negotiate. While the US, in the past few months, has loosened its rigid position of not negotiating with Iran and Syria - although it's still a long way from meaningful dialogue - it continues its counterproductive polices by hinting at possible military action against both countries but for different reasons. The point, though, is that the more the US escalates its threats against those two influential countries in the region, the more they will create trouble by provoking extremist groups.
The insecurity and instability that such countries are able to create by using their influence would generate a new generation of extremists who believe in nothing but violence as a way of obtaining political gains; a new generation that is well-versed in technology and scientific infrastructure of modernity; a generation that embraces modern technology but rejects cultural modernity including democracy.
With the shocking developments in Gaza, the peace process dream seems to have become unattainable. This deteriorated situation is a natural outcome of the Bush administration's six years of negligence.
Are the US and Israel aware of the consequences of the collapse of the unity government and the isolation of Hamas in the Gaza Strip? The answer is no as it seems that they have both found a good opportunity in this development.
The US and Israel certainly had their own agendas in mind when they quickly expressed support for the Palestinian Authority. It seems that the Bush administration is aiming to guide the West Bank towards significantly better living standards, by providing political, economic and military support, while at the same time seeking to teach Hamas a lesson by leaving the people in Gaza to languish in poverty and misery through the economic blockade and political isolation.
Maybe it is trying to force Hamas supporters, both in Gaza and West Bank, to turn away and align themselves with Fatah, accusing Hamas of being the main reason behind their misery.
This scenario is likely but officials in the US have to keep in mind other scenarios too. For instance, the support that Hamas gets from Iran and Syria, What if Hamas manages to establish a lawful and prosperous nation? What if it succeeds in bringing about security? By isolating Hamas, the US and Israel are giving it a chance to reorganize its military operations and start a new furious wave of resistance. If Hamas loses control of Gaza, this would open the gate for terrorist groups from all over the world to turn it into a new training ground for terrorists to target Israeli and American interests in the region.
The solution to the Middle East crisis doesn't lie in the region. On the contrary, it lies in Washington. Any delay in accepting comprehensive initiatives such as that of the Riyadh summit will worsen the situation and make the confrontation more violent and bloody. It will also create an atmosphere for terrorism that would be exported not only to the neighboring countries but also to the rest of the world.
Teach Them How to Love their Country
Tuesday, 12 June 2007
By Sabria S Jawhar
THE Ministry of Interior's efforts to combat terrorists have been recognized locally and internationally. These efforts are not limited to the military level where they recently proved they have the required capability to foil attempts to target the country's economic and security establishments. As for those few cases in which the terrorists could strike, the ministry's men managed to reach the culprits and bring them to justice.
At the intellectual level, the ministry has established a 130- member Guidance Committee to hold dialogues with what the Saudi government refers to as "deviant groups" so as to try to change their minds and lead them back to the right path.
The Guidance Committee consists of Islamic scholars, preachers and academics, who team up and work according to a preset program to rehabilitate detained suspects or convicts affected by the deviant group's ideology.
The committee claims to have accomplished a great victory by bringing back to the right path almost as many as 700 detainees who had wrong beliefs or destructive ideas.
The committee is divided into three subcommittees handling security, scientific and psychological affairs. Their work includes lecturing detainees on religious issues that they have doubts about or which are misinterpreted. Those lectures last for five weeks. Then they are tested and, if they pass, are given certificates. The detainees are also involved in one-to-one dialogues with qualified preachers who clear any confusion concerning religious issues. A team of psychologists and sociologists also talk to them and study their social and economic background.
These tremendous efforts should be applauded. However the question remains: are these enough to combat and uproot terrorism?
Saudi society is religious by nature. They listen to Imams at mosques and follow their advice. This fact had pushed the Saudi government to inspect the attitude of several Imams in mosques, in 2003, send about 1,000 Imams for retraining programs to promote religious moderation and repudiate violence.
But, unfortunately, we still hear from time to time, some Imams using violent language in preaching to youth, which brings us back to the same cycle and raises question: where does violence come from?
We rarely hear an Imam in his Friday sermon or at any other ceremony talk about the importance of loving one's country and protecting its property as a religious duty. Sometimes, it seems to me, they are very cautions and avoid talking about patriotism, as if there is a contradiction between patriotism and religion.
I believe that guidance and advice should relate patriotism to religion. The new generation has to learn how to love their own country and to consider that as part of being a Muslim. Youngsters have to know that having national pride or strong patriotism is not against Islam. On the contrary, it is the core of Islam. Imams in mosques should highlight this and appeal to the citizens' religious sentiments when they tackle terrorism or any other security issues.
They have to stop using that timid language of theirs when condemning terrorist acts as if they are doing it out of duty and not conviction.
Education should involve more with love of the country. Educators have to know that instilling patriotism is a practice, not a book for study and test.
We have to realize that we've already lost some of our kids by overlooking the importance of loving one's own land. They became victims of foreign ideology that made them forsake their own country as a strategy for fighting infidels. What mentality is this that believes targeting and destroying one's own country's economy is a holy war? If those people were taught in advance that Jihad is not being waged in their own country, that it is governed by very strict regulations and that it should be declared by their country's ruler, would they have done what they did to their country in the name of Jihad?
Watching the Saudi television interview with those arrested for the terrorist plot to attack oil facilities in the Kingdom, clearly reflects the importance of enhancing the patriotism in the souls of those kids. One of the terrorist-cell member's excuse of "uncontrolled jealousy" as the reason behind the plot or its possible consequence, is what we have to stop and think about. What jealousy are they talking about? And was it for the good of the country?
Simply, we have to teach them how to love and how to express it. Love is not a crime or a shame that we have to hide. Love for the country starts from home, mosque and schools.
Have we shown enough love at these places? Did we offer our kids a role model of how to love?
By Sabria S Jawhar
THE Ministry of Interior's efforts to combat terrorists have been recognized locally and internationally. These efforts are not limited to the military level where they recently proved they have the required capability to foil attempts to target the country's economic and security establishments. As for those few cases in which the terrorists could strike, the ministry's men managed to reach the culprits and bring them to justice.
At the intellectual level, the ministry has established a 130- member Guidance Committee to hold dialogues with what the Saudi government refers to as "deviant groups" so as to try to change their minds and lead them back to the right path.
The Guidance Committee consists of Islamic scholars, preachers and academics, who team up and work according to a preset program to rehabilitate detained suspects or convicts affected by the deviant group's ideology.
The committee claims to have accomplished a great victory by bringing back to the right path almost as many as 700 detainees who had wrong beliefs or destructive ideas.
The committee is divided into three subcommittees handling security, scientific and psychological affairs. Their work includes lecturing detainees on religious issues that they have doubts about or which are misinterpreted. Those lectures last for five weeks. Then they are tested and, if they pass, are given certificates. The detainees are also involved in one-to-one dialogues with qualified preachers who clear any confusion concerning religious issues. A team of psychologists and sociologists also talk to them and study their social and economic background.
These tremendous efforts should be applauded. However the question remains: are these enough to combat and uproot terrorism?
Saudi society is religious by nature. They listen to Imams at mosques and follow their advice. This fact had pushed the Saudi government to inspect the attitude of several Imams in mosques, in 2003, send about 1,000 Imams for retraining programs to promote religious moderation and repudiate violence.
But, unfortunately, we still hear from time to time, some Imams using violent language in preaching to youth, which brings us back to the same cycle and raises question: where does violence come from?
We rarely hear an Imam in his Friday sermon or at any other ceremony talk about the importance of loving one's country and protecting its property as a religious duty. Sometimes, it seems to me, they are very cautions and avoid talking about patriotism, as if there is a contradiction between patriotism and religion.
I believe that guidance and advice should relate patriotism to religion. The new generation has to learn how to love their own country and to consider that as part of being a Muslim. Youngsters have to know that having national pride or strong patriotism is not against Islam. On the contrary, it is the core of Islam. Imams in mosques should highlight this and appeal to the citizens' religious sentiments when they tackle terrorism or any other security issues.
They have to stop using that timid language of theirs when condemning terrorist acts as if they are doing it out of duty and not conviction.
Education should involve more with love of the country. Educators have to know that instilling patriotism is a practice, not a book for study and test.
We have to realize that we've already lost some of our kids by overlooking the importance of loving one's own land. They became victims of foreign ideology that made them forsake their own country as a strategy for fighting infidels. What mentality is this that believes targeting and destroying one's own country's economy is a holy war? If those people were taught in advance that Jihad is not being waged in their own country, that it is governed by very strict regulations and that it should be declared by their country's ruler, would they have done what they did to their country in the name of Jihad?
Watching the Saudi television interview with those arrested for the terrorist plot to attack oil facilities in the Kingdom, clearly reflects the importance of enhancing the patriotism in the souls of those kids. One of the terrorist-cell member's excuse of "uncontrolled jealousy" as the reason behind the plot or its possible consequence, is what we have to stop and think about. What jealousy are they talking about? And was it for the good of the country?
Simply, we have to teach them how to love and how to express it. Love is not a crime or a shame that we have to hide. Love for the country starts from home, mosque and schools.
Have we shown enough love at these places? Did we offer our kids a role model of how to love?
Tips for a Good Summer Vacation
Tuesday, 19 June 2007
By Sabria S Jawhar
DO you feel like gritting your teeth and clenching your fists? Do you have a desire to raise your voice and yell? When you talk to an official anywhere do you have thoughts like "Who the hell does he think he is?"
Don't worry, it's only typical of the advent of summer. However, don't let anger get the better of you otherwise you might land in trouble or end up spending your summer vacation in jail instead of a lovely resort in the Kingdom or abroad.
Also, keep in mind that during summer people are more inclined to become angry and short-tempered than at any other time of the year, except Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
For those who don't know how to control their temper in summer, I recommend the following;
If you are a visitor to Saudi Arabia, avoid going out in the middle of a summer day. If your car, God forbid, is hit by another one, make sure not to stop and claim money for repairs unless you're sure the other driver is not Saudi, otherwise the damage will be double as you will lose your car and most probably one of your eyes. Moreover, you won't get back your claim. Saudis are always right.
If you're hungry, go for any other restaurant food but Haneedh, Mandi or Madhbi (Saudi traditional dishes), or you'll waste your time in a very long queue and end up quitting to make do with fried chicken from a Bukhari restaurant in a side street, because Saudis have the priority - not because they pay more but simply because the expatriate workers at restaurants have become smarter and know now, more than any other time, whom to serve first. After all, no one wants to lose his teeth or eyes over such a trifle matter.
If you are attending a seminar in Japan, make sure you go with a cool driver who doesn't smoke cigarette. Otherwise he will piss off the consulate's bored guard who might harass, push or slap him on the face. Also make sure that you know where you will be staying even if you are the guest of the ministry of foreign affairs of Japan or the United Nations. Officials there are very straightforward and believe in nothing that is not Japanese.
If you are going to China, happy you - people at the consulate are so friendly they tell you even how to get a cheaper price for the visa, "The earlier you apply, the less you pay." If you don't know how to fill in the application, don't worry, you'll always find someone to help you only for 10 riyals per person.
If you are going to Australia, apply and pay the money for the visa in the Kingdom but be informed that you are expected to pay for the express mail to send your passport to Dubai. Officials at the Australian embassy in Riyadh seem to be not entitled to issue visas. Don't worry about the legality of sending your passport outside the borders without a courier to carry it; the beautiful Australia is worth violating the Saudi passport's law.
If you are traveling by Saudia Airlines, make sure that you have a tranquilizer. Zanax is highly recommended. It keeps your temper down in front of the already edgy official. Also don't forget to take a blanket and pillow for the kids as well as for yourself: your flight might be delayed a whole day. Compensation is a wild dream.
Finally, if you have a tragic or funny experience with a foreign consulate or embassy, please share it with us. From my side, I wish all those courageous and cool people who bear the humiliating treatment at most of the western embassies and consulates a safe and enjoyable trip.
I also wish a happy stay for those who have chosen to stand the hot Saudi weather and temper. As for me, I haven't decided what to do with my vacation yet. But till I do so, wish me a happy one and meet you in three weeks, Insha' Allah.
By Sabria S Jawhar
DO you feel like gritting your teeth and clenching your fists? Do you have a desire to raise your voice and yell? When you talk to an official anywhere do you have thoughts like "Who the hell does he think he is?"
Don't worry, it's only typical of the advent of summer. However, don't let anger get the better of you otherwise you might land in trouble or end up spending your summer vacation in jail instead of a lovely resort in the Kingdom or abroad.
Also, keep in mind that during summer people are more inclined to become angry and short-tempered than at any other time of the year, except Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
For those who don't know how to control their temper in summer, I recommend the following;
If you are a visitor to Saudi Arabia, avoid going out in the middle of a summer day. If your car, God forbid, is hit by another one, make sure not to stop and claim money for repairs unless you're sure the other driver is not Saudi, otherwise the damage will be double as you will lose your car and most probably one of your eyes. Moreover, you won't get back your claim. Saudis are always right.
If you're hungry, go for any other restaurant food but Haneedh, Mandi or Madhbi (Saudi traditional dishes), or you'll waste your time in a very long queue and end up quitting to make do with fried chicken from a Bukhari restaurant in a side street, because Saudis have the priority - not because they pay more but simply because the expatriate workers at restaurants have become smarter and know now, more than any other time, whom to serve first. After all, no one wants to lose his teeth or eyes over such a trifle matter.
If you are attending a seminar in Japan, make sure you go with a cool driver who doesn't smoke cigarette. Otherwise he will piss off the consulate's bored guard who might harass, push or slap him on the face. Also make sure that you know where you will be staying even if you are the guest of the ministry of foreign affairs of Japan or the United Nations. Officials there are very straightforward and believe in nothing that is not Japanese.
If you are going to China, happy you - people at the consulate are so friendly they tell you even how to get a cheaper price for the visa, "The earlier you apply, the less you pay." If you don't know how to fill in the application, don't worry, you'll always find someone to help you only for 10 riyals per person.
If you are going to Australia, apply and pay the money for the visa in the Kingdom but be informed that you are expected to pay for the express mail to send your passport to Dubai. Officials at the Australian embassy in Riyadh seem to be not entitled to issue visas. Don't worry about the legality of sending your passport outside the borders without a courier to carry it; the beautiful Australia is worth violating the Saudi passport's law.
If you are traveling by Saudia Airlines, make sure that you have a tranquilizer. Zanax is highly recommended. It keeps your temper down in front of the already edgy official. Also don't forget to take a blanket and pillow for the kids as well as for yourself: your flight might be delayed a whole day. Compensation is a wild dream.
Finally, if you have a tragic or funny experience with a foreign consulate or embassy, please share it with us. From my side, I wish all those courageous and cool people who bear the humiliating treatment at most of the western embassies and consulates a safe and enjoyable trip.
I also wish a happy stay for those who have chosen to stand the hot Saudi weather and temper. As for me, I haven't decided what to do with my vacation yet. But till I do so, wish me a happy one and meet you in three weeks, Insha' Allah.
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