Chapter 2 Sheikh Zayed and the Beginnings of the Federal National Council PDF

Chapter 2 Sheikh Zayed and the Beginnings of the Federal National Council Shura is a process where decisions are made through thoughtful discussion and consideration of various issues. It allows ordinary people to participate in decision-making, making them feel involved and ensuring their voices...

Chapter 2 Sheikh Zayed and the Beginnings of the Federal National Council Shura is a process where decisions are made through thoughtful discussion and consideration of various issues. It allows ordinary people to participate in decision-making, making them feel involved and ensuring their voices are heard. The UAE has practiced Al Shura as a way to govern the relationship between rulers and citizens long before the formation of the Union. People have always exchanged opinions on matters concerning citizens' needs and concerns. The goal of Shura is to ensure that citizens' aspirations and expectations are met, reflecting the value of public participation and consultation. This tradition of Shura led to the establishment of the Federal National Council (FNC), which became one of the five pillars of the UAE constitution after the Union. The majlises are gatherings where people come together to communicate, share knowledge, and build connections. They are a crucial part of Emirati culture and can still be found in many UAE households. In the past, people from all walks of life—children, adults, the wealthy, and the poor—would meet in the majlis. It was a place where poets and wise individuals would come to share their knowledge. Sheikh Zayed valued these gatherings, understanding that they helped promote unity, harmony, and solidarity. He frequently visited his own majlis, where he spent time listening to people and discussing various issues. His majlis was also a place where poetry and traditional culture were celebrated. Sheikh Zayed appreciated the tradition of consultation and the majlis and made sure these values formed part of the new state's foundation, leading to the creation of the Federal National Council. The first session of the FNC was convened on February 13, 1972, marking a significant moment in the country's history. Sheikh Zayed encouraged the FNC members to speak freely and represent the needs of citizens honestly. Consultation has always been integral to political life in the Emirates. Before the Union, the majlises of the rulers were key places where views and advice were exchanged between rulers and citizens. This tradition is reflected in the UAE's Constitution, with the establishment of the Federal National Council (FNC) as the fourth federal authority. The FNC plays a role in the political decision-making process by discussing and approving federal laws, regulating societal affairs, and addressing issues raised by its members concerning citizens' needs. The FNC also provides a platform for exchanging opinions with the government in the best interest of the country and its people. This democratic aspect of governance reflects the UAE's long-standing tradition of public participation in politics. Recent changes have allowed for 20 out of 40 FNC members to be elected by an electoral college, further promoting public involvement. In 2006, Sheikh Khalifa approved a resolution revising the method of selecting FNC representatives, combining both election and appointment processes. This allowed citizens to elect half of the FNC members, while the other half were appointed by the rulers' courts of the emirates. The third election took place in October 2015, with 224,279 voters, 48% of whom were women. The goal of electing members to the FNC is to strengthen national loyalty and encourage public engagement in national affairs. This initiative also aims to involve young, educated, and enthusiastic individuals—both men and women—in shaping the country’s future. It reflects the trust between rulers and citizens and the government’s commitment to supporting social and economic growth alongside the people. This encouragement of citizen participation in government is rooted in the tradition of the majlis, and aligns with the vision outlined by Sheikh Zayed during the first FNC meeting in 1972: to create a bright and prosperous future for the country and future generations.