‘Tolerance not an option, but a right’

dubai — Everyone has the right to tolerance in a society, while forgiveness is an option you grant a wrongdoer, urged a prominent Emirati author and diplomat, during the launch of a new reading initiative.
 
Former UAE ambassador Dr. Yousef Al Hassan was speaking at the first session of the ‘In Book’s Presence’ initiative, launched by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) on Wednesday, and held in support of the UAE’s Year of Reading 2016.
 
 
Meaning of tolerance
 
In line with the UAE national programme for tolerance, Al Hassan presented his latest book titled Identity, Tolerance and Culture of Dialogue’s Questions to a group of intellectuals and interested parties.
 
Al Hassan’s book revolves around the notion of people’s differences and the role societies must play in managing them to achieve a stable life. “For years, we have seen politicians and scholars resisting the term ‘tolerance’ because they associate it with social hierarchy and arrogance,” he said. “But the real meaning of tolerance is to accept the other and live collectively. It is everyone’s right to speak their opinions, therefore, tolerance is not an option.” He stated that conflict could be managed by sparking a dialogue and promoting national identity.
 
Al Hassan praised the UAE’s efforts in promoting tolerance, adding that its latest national programme is “ambitious and civilised.” “In 2008, Abu Dhabi set up nine sculptures that spell out the word ‘tolerance’ on the front gate of The Crown Prince Court. That was even before a Minister of Tolerance was appointed.” He added: “This reflects the government’s full awareness that tolerance is the main element of a peaceful society.”
 
He noted that the key lay in creating open-minded and productive citizens who look at society beyond people’s differences.
 
“Educational institutes, media and corporations must join hands in promoting tolerance. If we let the concept slip, we will never see stability,” he added.
 
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com