Report by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on the occasion of the UAE 48th National Day
December 2nd of every year is an occasion for UAE nationals and residents alike, to express pride in the country’s developmental and civilizational achievements.
This year, the United Arab Emirates celebrates its 48th National Day, forging ahead with wisdom and perseverance, following in the footsteps of its founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, under the leadership of the President, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers their highnesses the members of the Federal Supreme Council, Rulers of all the emirates, and through the hands of its loyal daughters and sons who stand at the heart of the country’s growth and development, attaining developmental, cultural, economic, political and social achievements.
The values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on him, laid the foundations of modern cultural and developmental renaissance in the country. Inspired by these values, the wise leaders of the country took to building a bright future for the UAE, strengthening its stance among the countries of the region and the world, turning it into an oasis of peace and political stability, economic and social development, and tolerance.
The UAE has championed the values of tolerance and multiculturalism, rejecting discrimination and hatred by adopting nationwide programs in partnership with various local, regional and international bodies. Today, the UAE forges ahead, a model of tolerance and acceptance, with more than 200 nationalities living in harmony, chasing it as their second home. The law guarantees residents, similarly to nationals, enjoy the right to use the state’s healthcare, educational, cultural and entertainment facilities without any discrimination.
The UAE has appointed a Minister of Tolerance, to promote the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, and support moderate religious discourse. The country adheres to several international conventions on tolerance, coexistence and rejection of violence and extremism, including but not limited to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination of 1974, and the UAE has adopted many legislation, measures, initiatives and measures that contribute to the promotion of a culture of tolerance at the national level, including the “Combating Discrimination and Hate” Law, which includes articles criminalizing discrimination between individuals or groups on the basis of religion, sect, race, color, origin, or the exploitation of religion in atonement, or financially supporting terrorism.
The UAE is also active in the fight against extremism and terrorism. The fight against terrorism and extremism is a key element in the UAE’s efforts to ensure its national security and enhance international security. The country has accomplished key achievements in this regard, both through military participation in Islamic and international alliances or through the enactment of local laws that combat terrorism and its causes, such as the Anti-Discrimination and Hatred Act and the Federal Law establishing Hedayah, the International Guidance Center for Excellence in the Fight Against Violent Extremism, in addition to a decreed law that criminalizes acts of contempt against religions and their sanctities, combating all forms of discrimination, renouncing hate speech, and criminalizing discrimination between individuals or groups on the basis of religion, creed, sect, sect, race, color or origin.