FNC to throw spotlight on human-rights in UAE

For the first time in 41 years, the Federal National Council will this year aim to deal with human-rights issues in the UAE.

A new committee will dedicate itself to studying human rights in the country - what progress has been made and what work is still needed.

The decision to form the committee followed a resolution passed by the European parliament criticising the UAE's record on human rights.

The council has also co-ordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss how to respond to the criticism. Plans on this will be announced.

The council is most likely planning a strong comeback at the next meeting of the inter-parliamentary union - an international organisation of parliaments - to improve its image.

Following the EU resolution in October, FNC member Dr Abdulrahim Al Shahin quizzed the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr Anwar Gargash, on the country's plans and a large number of Emiratis protested to the council, demanding action.

osalem@thenational.ae