Tolerance is a noble value, one that is rooted in the culture of the UAE and established by our country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as a principle of government, said Najla bint Mohammed Al Awar, Minister of Community Development.

''This principle is still in effect today, as ensured by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces,''Najla Al Awar said in a statement on the eve of the International Day for Tolerance, which falls on 16th November .

''And it is this form of tolerant government that has made the UAE a global role model for tolerance, coexistence, moderation, respect, and acceptance of others intellectually, culturally, and religiously. The UAE has always been a pioneer in disseminating the values of peace and tolerance between different cultures and religions. And it continues on the same path, guided by its wise leaders, as every one of our laws seeks to enshrine respect for all members of society, indiscriminately,'' she remarked.

''Sending a resounding message of love and tolerance to all of humanity, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a law dedicated to exterminating all types of discrimination and hate. On the same note, the UAE set a global precedent, becoming the first country in the world to create a ministerial post for tolerance, and a trailblazer when it comes to launching global initiatives in that regard,'' she noted.

These initiatives, the minister explained, include the Global Initiative for Tolerance, which honours global leaders who spread tolerance in the fields of human thought, literary creativeness, and arts. Furthermore, the UAE has launched the Mohammed bin Rashid Award for Tolerance, which seeks to find role models for tolerance among Arab youth – role models for coexistence and constructive dialogue – and to encourage cultural and media efforts to establish these principles among all segments of society.

''In line with these principles, we, at the Ministry of Community Development, strive to promote tolerance and coexistence among all members of the community. To that end, we make a point to underline the role of the family as the primary educational institution that instils values, social skills, principles, and respect in order to raise a generation on social tolerance.'' ''Tolerance and social responsibility are deeply intertwined; they are key factors in achieving cohesion and solidarity in our society. With that in mind, we, at the Ministry, work tirelessly to set strategic plans and innovative methods to bolster our social endeavours and adhere to the principles that bring about justice in the social development process, the minister concluded.