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Forum Advocates More Chances for NGOs

ABU DHABI —Senior officials from more than 38 countries met in the capital on Saturday to prepare the final draft of the 5th edition of the Forum for the Future’s recommendations that would include giving non-governmental organisations (NGOs) more chances to work freely in the developing countries.

The final recommendations will be announced on Sunday. At the Emirates Palace Hotel in the UAE capital, representatives of governments, civil society and private sector discussed the main topics and the most important steps to be recommended such as the economic, political and social reforms in the future.

In his opening speech, Dr Tariq Ahmed Al Haidan, Assistant Undersecretary of the UAE Foreign Ministry, chairman of the meeting, said, “This preparatory meeting is held to supplement the previous meetings with their positive results that enhance this forum’s goals, which are built on the respect of cultural and human heritage, religious beliefs, regional sovereignty of states and peoples.

“Besides, we want our discussions to be responsible, objective and transparent to reach common and positive grounds serving the great efforts of both governments and civil society to prepare for this forum agenda.”

The basic topics discussed included the importance of participation of the civil society and private sector to achieve the reforms and improvements in the educational institutions, freedom of speech, media, women’s participation in political decision-making and respect of human rights.

“Today, our communities — at the local, regional and international levels — face many problems and challenges caused from the imbalance in the international relations, particularly regarding security,” said Dr Al Haidan.

Five main issues were discussed on Saturday, starting with political reforms that focus on governance and decision-making.

Secondly, the legal environment that should enable the NGOs to work without difficulty.

Thirdly, women empowerment that highlighted the important role of women in building societies and their right to get equal chances in the labour market.

Fourthly, sustainable development focusing on improving education and vocational training. Finally, the meeting discussed cooperation between civil society and the private and public sectors to implement the reforms’ mechanisms.

ahmed@khaleejtimes.com