Need to work at GWB index
The British government, led by Prime Minister David Cameron, decided to measure UK’s ‘general well being,’ as there is ‘more to life than money.’
MPs in the UK appreciated the move, saying public happiness and well being are major and legitimate goals for the government and GDP should be associated with GWB (General Well Being) while considering future policies.
The move has been followed by many other countries like USA, France and Canada after economists Joseph Stiglitz and Amartya Sen won Nobel prizes for their work on this issue.
In UK, the focus will be more on regularly measuring the well being of the public by the Office of the National Statistics which will be checking attitude, satisfaction, public spending on services like health and education and the levels of transparency etc.
Many studies showed that the best policy is the one that produces greatest happiness for all people living in that country, and happiness should be one of the factors while studying the progress of any society besides GDP numbers and the living standards.
In Kuwait and in most countries in the Gulf which are financially stable, we need similar measures, because locals leave the country in large numbers whenever there is a holiday. This is because there is not much to do in the field of recreation and entertainment, and sometimes people leave for other reasons like health, education and so on. Those are important signs however, which mean that people are going elsewhere to seek happiness and satisfaction. Hence, we need to give considerable attention to this fact, especially in the development plan which will reflect the future of Kuwait until 2035. We need to work hard in the next two decades to have a happier Kuwait.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/163192/reftab/73/t/How-happy-can-Kuwait-be/Default.aspx
Sunday 19 December 2010
Saturday 4 December 2010
Obama’s midterm setback
Rapprochement with Muslims must continue
In an article ‘Stay with Obama’s opening to Muslims’ in the International Herald Tribune dated Nov 6th , 2010, Britain’s former foreign secretary David Miliband called the West not to let Obama’s midterm setback undercut his efforts in rapprochement with Muslim world, especially since his visits to Ankara and Cairo helped in boosting intelligence cooperation regarding security issues like in Yemen, besides economic, cultural, scientific, and other issues and in confronting world’s problems like water shortages, global health, terrorism and climate change.
This opinion reflects the thoughts of millions of Muslims. Although media has been generating Islamophobia and portraying Muslims as symbols of terrorism, there are moderate silent Muslims who are the real assets and who can truly be utilized to combat radicalism. These moderate Muslims, especially from financially stable Muslim countries, can help in bringing together their fellow believers in the areas of solving world problems.
The article touched on what is truly needed in challenging times and during global power shifts, especially with the influence of the financial crisis, new creditors and currency wars.
Going back to the voice of reason, the Muslim world must be at the top of the list, given the size of the Muslim community with a population 1.57 billion — one-fifth of the world’s — and is able to provide security, equality and peace within the international community.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/162647/reftab/73/Default.aspx
In an article ‘Stay with Obama’s opening to Muslims’ in the International Herald Tribune dated Nov 6th , 2010, Britain’s former foreign secretary David Miliband called the West not to let Obama’s midterm setback undercut his efforts in rapprochement with Muslim world, especially since his visits to Ankara and Cairo helped in boosting intelligence cooperation regarding security issues like in Yemen, besides economic, cultural, scientific, and other issues and in confronting world’s problems like water shortages, global health, terrorism and climate change.
This opinion reflects the thoughts of millions of Muslims. Although media has been generating Islamophobia and portraying Muslims as symbols of terrorism, there are moderate silent Muslims who are the real assets and who can truly be utilized to combat radicalism. These moderate Muslims, especially from financially stable Muslim countries, can help in bringing together their fellow believers in the areas of solving world problems.
The article touched on what is truly needed in challenging times and during global power shifts, especially with the influence of the financial crisis, new creditors and currency wars.
Going back to the voice of reason, the Muslim world must be at the top of the list, given the size of the Muslim community with a population 1.57 billion — one-fifth of the world’s — and is able to provide security, equality and peace within the international community.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/162647/reftab/73/Default.aspx
Wednesday 24 November 2010
Put end to food shortage
All countries must join hands
The World Food Day, which was celebrated on Oct 16th, should not just remain an annual event. On this day, we should call on everyone to work together and put an end to hunger all over the world.
As per Food and Agriculture Organization’s report, nearly one billion people all over the world are suffering from food shortage in 2010. This shows that there is need for serious cooperation in this field, especially since climate change and the recent financial crisis have also played a role.
Until all countries join hands and help people in need through the United Nations’ organizations, food shortage will remain a never-ending tragedy and will be source of misery for several children all over the world.
The wealthy countries can help their poorer counterparts by financing and providing technology to develop agricultural field and minimizing food shortage, which is the prime cause for the increase in prices of foodstuffs.
HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of a 100 million dollar fund to provide food to the needy people in the Islamic world makes Kuwait a leading example and it will no doubt reflect positively on peace and security in the world, especially since all efforts in the east and west are directed towards elimination of poverty and hunger around the world.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
The World Food Day, which was celebrated on Oct 16th, should not just remain an annual event. On this day, we should call on everyone to work together and put an end to hunger all over the world.
As per Food and Agriculture Organization’s report, nearly one billion people all over the world are suffering from food shortage in 2010. This shows that there is need for serious cooperation in this field, especially since climate change and the recent financial crisis have also played a role.
Until all countries join hands and help people in need through the United Nations’ organizations, food shortage will remain a never-ending tragedy and will be source of misery for several children all over the world.
The wealthy countries can help their poorer counterparts by financing and providing technology to develop agricultural field and minimizing food shortage, which is the prime cause for the increase in prices of foodstuffs.
HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of a 100 million dollar fund to provide food to the needy people in the Islamic world makes Kuwait a leading example and it will no doubt reflect positively on peace and security in the world, especially since all efforts in the east and west are directed towards elimination of poverty and hunger around the world.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
Kuwait stands to gain a lot from Switzerland
Time to choose the right friends
A LUNCH banquet was held in honor of Micheline Calmy-Rey, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs in Switzerland (Minister of Foreign Affairs), in the Amiri tent at the Bayan Palace upon her arrival in Kuwait on Nov 7, 2010. In this event, HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah made the most important announcement on the future of the country, particularly the vision of HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to transform Kuwait into a financial and commercial hub in the region.
Several steps have been taken to develop Kuwait and make it a better place to live, including the approval of the development plan for fiscal 2010 to 2014; allocation of $140 billion for the enhancement of infrastructure and establishment of ports, railways and cities; and improvement of public services. These steps are part of a promise to effect positive changes in the country, especially the efforts to raise the standard of education, ensure gender equality, boost the economy and protect political freedom.
It is extremely important for Kuwait in the near future to choose the right friends in the world like Switzerland, which usually extends a helping hand economically and politically, in addition to its willingness to share its positive experiences in democracy, freedom and neutrality.
This is the right time for Kuwait to push the wheels of development forward, because it currently enjoys strong ties with the US, UK, France, Canada and China. Development efforts will be more meaningful this time because the country is on the verge of celebrating the golden jubilee of its independence. Such efforts give people a glimmer hope that the next 50 years will be better, in terms of the quality of life, openness, modernization and national recovery.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
A LUNCH banquet was held in honor of Micheline Calmy-Rey, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs in Switzerland (Minister of Foreign Affairs), in the Amiri tent at the Bayan Palace upon her arrival in Kuwait on Nov 7, 2010. In this event, HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah made the most important announcement on the future of the country, particularly the vision of HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to transform Kuwait into a financial and commercial hub in the region.
Several steps have been taken to develop Kuwait and make it a better place to live, including the approval of the development plan for fiscal 2010 to 2014; allocation of $140 billion for the enhancement of infrastructure and establishment of ports, railways and cities; and improvement of public services. These steps are part of a promise to effect positive changes in the country, especially the efforts to raise the standard of education, ensure gender equality, boost the economy and protect political freedom.
It is extremely important for Kuwait in the near future to choose the right friends in the world like Switzerland, which usually extends a helping hand economically and politically, in addition to its willingness to share its positive experiences in democracy, freedom and neutrality.
This is the right time for Kuwait to push the wheels of development forward, because it currently enjoys strong ties with the US, UK, France, Canada and China. Development efforts will be more meaningful this time because the country is on the verge of celebrating the golden jubilee of its independence. Such efforts give people a glimmer hope that the next 50 years will be better, in terms of the quality of life, openness, modernization and national recovery.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
Sunday 14 November 2010
Shift from virtual to natural world
Vital to regulate contents of video games
MANY researchers have warned that those who spend hours browsing social networking sites might suffer from various health problems like depression, loneliness, anxiety, traumatic stress, lethargy and sleep disorders. People are considered Internet addicts if they spend 1.5 hours or more on online activities.Different behavior modification techniques are required to cure anyone of Internet addiction but most importantly we need an effective prevention system to protect the young generation from immoral sites, which may influence social behavior and the law, particularly the online games (short fight, war clips and lyrics). These games may lead to the spread of violence and aggression that have a negative impact on our private and public lives. The youth might imitate the criminal acts in these games and use the online ways of solving problems in real life. Online games have become a source of aggression and innocent individuals have fallen victim to this violence. We can cite as an example the random stabbing incidents on the streets in many countries, some of which have escalated to organized crimes.In the Internet world, it is necessary to regulate the contents of games and establish a legal government body to protect the whole society, especially the youth. Efforts to prevent the spread of crimes have become futile due to our inability to control the virtual crimes, which lead to a new society ready to engage in criminal acts in the real world.Kuwait and the entire world must not completely rely on the Internet. They should encourage face-to-face communication for people to live in the natural and real world, instead of spending most of their time in the virtual world. We should stop regarding online fear and insecurity as part of the reality.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
MANY researchers have warned that those who spend hours browsing social networking sites might suffer from various health problems like depression, loneliness, anxiety, traumatic stress, lethargy and sleep disorders. People are considered Internet addicts if they spend 1.5 hours or more on online activities.Different behavior modification techniques are required to cure anyone of Internet addiction but most importantly we need an effective prevention system to protect the young generation from immoral sites, which may influence social behavior and the law, particularly the online games (short fight, war clips and lyrics). These games may lead to the spread of violence and aggression that have a negative impact on our private and public lives. The youth might imitate the criminal acts in these games and use the online ways of solving problems in real life. Online games have become a source of aggression and innocent individuals have fallen victim to this violence. We can cite as an example the random stabbing incidents on the streets in many countries, some of which have escalated to organized crimes.In the Internet world, it is necessary to regulate the contents of games and establish a legal government body to protect the whole society, especially the youth. Efforts to prevent the spread of crimes have become futile due to our inability to control the virtual crimes, which lead to a new society ready to engage in criminal acts in the real world.Kuwait and the entire world must not completely rely on the Internet. They should encourage face-to-face communication for people to live in the natural and real world, instead of spending most of their time in the virtual world. We should stop regarding online fear and insecurity as part of the reality.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Council’s decision on church a victory for rule of law
CANCELLATION of the Municipal Council’s decision on rejecting a request for the construction of a Catholic church in Mahboula is considered a victory for the rule of law and it will have a positive impact on the Constitution of Kuwait.Legally speaking, there was no majority at Al-Ahmadi Committee when the council rejected the request of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to allocate land for the construction of a new church in Mahboula. Article 35 of the Constitution also states that freedom of belief is absolute. Kuwait protects people’s freedom to practice their own religion in accordance with the customs and provided they do not violate public policies or morals.On the practical level, Kuwait needs to clearly define the range of religious freedom. There should be a stable understanding in the society and public bodies for freedom of belief or to practice one’s own religion within the limits of the universal understanding of basic human rights and international conventions.The government, National Assembly and Municipal Council should prioritize the rights of non-Muslims, especially when their population is growing. Churches must be considered worship places in Kuwait and should be managed in a responsible way because religion influences the activities of thousands of expatriates in this country. We cannot claim to be protectors of the freedom of belief and religion without allowing the people to build their own worship places or churches. Kuwait has been regarded a country of abundance and freedom since its inception 300 years ago, particularly after 1899 when the country became a protectorate of the British Empire by signing the protection agreement with Sheikh Mubarak as its representative. It has opened its doors to immigrants from surrounding areas like Mesopotamia, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon.In coordination with our wise leaders and following in the footsteps of our forefathers, we have to preserve our history and adopt the changes to be in line with the modern times, especially when most newcomers abide by the law and rules of the country.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
CANCELLATION of the Municipal Council’s decision on rejecting a request for the construction of a Catholic church in Mahboula is considered a victory for the rule of law and it will have a positive impact on the Constitution of Kuwait.Legally speaking, there was no majority at Al-Ahmadi Committee when the council rejected the request of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to allocate land for the construction of a new church in Mahboula. Article 35 of the Constitution also states that freedom of belief is absolute. Kuwait protects people’s freedom to practice their own religion in accordance with the customs and provided they do not violate public policies or morals.On the practical level, Kuwait needs to clearly define the range of religious freedom. There should be a stable understanding in the society and public bodies for freedom of belief or to practice one’s own religion within the limits of the universal understanding of basic human rights and international conventions.The government, National Assembly and Municipal Council should prioritize the rights of non-Muslims, especially when their population is growing. Churches must be considered worship places in Kuwait and should be managed in a responsible way because religion influences the activities of thousands of expatriates in this country. We cannot claim to be protectors of the freedom of belief and religion without allowing the people to build their own worship places or churches. Kuwait has been regarded a country of abundance and freedom since its inception 300 years ago, particularly after 1899 when the country became a protectorate of the British Empire by signing the protection agreement with Sheikh Mubarak as its representative. It has opened its doors to immigrants from surrounding areas like Mesopotamia, Iran, Palestine and Lebanon.In coordination with our wise leaders and following in the footsteps of our forefathers, we have to preserve our history and adopt the changes to be in line with the modern times, especially when most newcomers abide by the law and rules of the country.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
Laws needed to protect people from Net abuses
Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign int’l agreements
Google, Youtube, Facebook, iPod, iPhone and iPad have become a vital part of our life. They are playing the role of mother and father in guiding us and in helping us make the right choices. The Time Magazine, in its May 2010 issue, stated that there are over 500 million Facebook users, and added that if Facebook were a state, it would have been the third most populous country in the world.President Barack Obama can be called the first e-president. He used the Internet extensively, especially Google, Youtube, Wikipedia and his website ‘Change’ in his presidential campaign. The first signs of e-war were noticed during the conflict between Russia and Georgia, where the latter’s air defenses were hacked and crippled from doing their role. Georgia lost the war as a result.Everyone has the right to have unlimited knowledge and there are no restrictions on how to use this information. However, we must maintain some limits to ensure privacy.In Kuwait, we need to e-reevaluate our legislation as we still do not have well structured laws to protect individuals from Internet abuses, fraud, threats, embezzlement, copy right infringements etc. Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign international agreements to provide right protection to its e-government projects and its data. It will also help in maintaining citizens and expatriates’ security, rights and freedoms.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
Google, Youtube, Facebook, iPod, iPhone and iPad have become a vital part of our life. They are playing the role of mother and father in guiding us and in helping us make the right choices. The Time Magazine, in its May 2010 issue, stated that there are over 500 million Facebook users, and added that if Facebook were a state, it would have been the third most populous country in the world.President Barack Obama can be called the first e-president. He used the Internet extensively, especially Google, Youtube, Wikipedia and his website ‘Change’ in his presidential campaign. The first signs of e-war were noticed during the conflict between Russia and Georgia, where the latter’s air defenses were hacked and crippled from doing their role. Georgia lost the war as a result.Everyone has the right to have unlimited knowledge and there are no restrictions on how to use this information. However, we must maintain some limits to ensure privacy.In Kuwait, we need to e-reevaluate our legislation as we still do not have well structured laws to protect individuals from Internet abuses, fraud, threats, embezzlement, copy right infringements etc. Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign international agreements to provide right protection to its e-government projects and its data. It will also help in maintaining citizens and expatriates’ security, rights and freedoms.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
Sunday 31 October 2010
Put end to food shortage
All countries must join hands
The World Food Day, which was celebrated on Oct 16th, should not just remain an annual event. On this day, we should call on everyone to work together and put an end to hunger all over the world. As per Food and Agriculture Organization’s report, nearly one billion people all over the world are suffering from food shortage in 2010. This shows that there is need for serious cooperation in this field, especially since climate change and the recent financial crisis have also played a role.Until all countries join hands and help people in need through the United Nations’ organizations, food shortage will remain a never-ending tragedy and will be source of misery for several children all over the world.The wealthy countries can help their poorer counterparts by financing and providing technology to develop agricultural field and minimizing food shortage, which is the prime cause for the increase in prices of foodstuffs. HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of a 100 million dollar fund to provide food to the needy people in the Islamic world makes Kuwait a leading example and it will no doubt reflect positively on peace and security in the world, especially since all efforts in the east and west are directed towards elimination of poverty and hunger around the world.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
The World Food Day, which was celebrated on Oct 16th, should not just remain an annual event. On this day, we should call on everyone to work together and put an end to hunger all over the world. As per Food and Agriculture Organization’s report, nearly one billion people all over the world are suffering from food shortage in 2010. This shows that there is need for serious cooperation in this field, especially since climate change and the recent financial crisis have also played a role.Until all countries join hands and help people in need through the United Nations’ organizations, food shortage will remain a never-ending tragedy and will be source of misery for several children all over the world.The wealthy countries can help their poorer counterparts by financing and providing technology to develop agricultural field and minimizing food shortage, which is the prime cause for the increase in prices of foodstuffs. HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of a 100 million dollar fund to provide food to the needy people in the Islamic world makes Kuwait a leading example and it will no doubt reflect positively on peace and security in the world, especially since all efforts in the east and west are directed towards elimination of poverty and hunger around the world.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/161330/reftab/96/t/Put-end-to-food-shortage/Default.aspx
Sunday 24 October 2010
Laws needed to protect people from Net abuses
Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign int’l agreements
Google, Youtube, Facebook, iPod, iPhone and iPad have become a vital part of our life. They are playing the role of mother and father in guiding us and in helping us make the right choices. The Time Magazine, in its May 2010 issue, stated that there are over 500 million Facebook users, and added that if Facebook were a state, it would have been the third most populous country in the world.President Barack Obama can be called the first e-president. He used the Internet extensively, especially Google, Youtube, Wikipedia and his website ‘Change’ in his presidential campaign. The first signs of e-war were noticed during the conflict between Russia and Georgia, where the latter’s air defenses were hacked and crippled from doing their role. Georgia lost the war as a result.Everyone has the right to have unlimited knowledge and there are no restrictions on how to use this information. However, we must maintain some limits to ensure privacy.In Kuwait, we need to e-reevaluate our legislation as we still do not have well structured laws to protect individuals from Internet abuses, fraud, threats, embezzlement, copy right infringements etc. Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign international agreements to provide right protection to its e-government projects and its data. It will also help in maintaining citizens and expatriates’ security, rights and freedoms.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
Google, Youtube, Facebook, iPod, iPhone and iPad have become a vital part of our life. They are playing the role of mother and father in guiding us and in helping us make the right choices. The Time Magazine, in its May 2010 issue, stated that there are over 500 million Facebook users, and added that if Facebook were a state, it would have been the third most populous country in the world.President Barack Obama can be called the first e-president. He used the Internet extensively, especially Google, Youtube, Wikipedia and his website ‘Change’ in his presidential campaign. The first signs of e-war were noticed during the conflict between Russia and Georgia, where the latter’s air defenses were hacked and crippled from doing their role. Georgia lost the war as a result.Everyone has the right to have unlimited knowledge and there are no restrictions on how to use this information. However, we must maintain some limits to ensure privacy.In Kuwait, we need to e-reevaluate our legislation as we still do not have well structured laws to protect individuals from Internet abuses, fraud, threats, embezzlement, copy right infringements etc. Kuwait should take decisive steps and sign international agreements to provide right protection to its e-government projects and its data. It will also help in maintaining citizens and expatriates’ security, rights and freedoms.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/161026/t/Laws-needed-to-protect-people-from-Net-abuses/Default.aspx
Sunday 5 September 2010
Green economy seen as need of the hour
IN THESE times of energy shortage and pollution, green economy is increasingly seen by nations as the need of the hour. There has been such great store laid by green economy that countries dared to continue spending in this field despite the global economic crisis.
Renewable energy is looked upon as a vital element by major economies in the world. This fact can be seen in the vast amounts spent in research and development in this field globally. The expenditure on renewable energy projects touched around $200 billion worldwide.
There is an evident competition burgeoning among the nations in the race to master renewable energy sources on all fronts.
The world has awakened to the fact that the future belongs to those who can efficiently tap, use and supply clean energy.In the coming years we will see great moves made in terms of planning in the field of renewable energy.
Sun, wind and tides will be exploited to harness energy and make the world more energy efficient and with surplus energy.
At another level, there is a drive the world over to bring about greater awareness on the importance of green energy and the responsibilities of citizens to leave less carbon footprint in their daily lives. Factories and individuals have already begun to adopt more environmentally friendly ways of consuming energy, and the green drive is also proving to be beneficial to the economy by creating more green jobs. Backed by the governments, these initiatives have already begun to show fruitful results.Speaking locally, I feel the Environment Public Authority (EPA) in Kuwait should take up a more active role to control pollution in the south of the country in Umm Al Haiman. The issue must be given due importance and legal proceedings must be taken up against the perpetrators. We must file for civil damages to make those who are responsible for harming the environment and the health of ordinary citizens to pay. Some of the refineries that spew out toxic waste into the atmosphere are situated dangerously close to residential areas and have been identified as the main cause for the increasing incidence of lung cancer and other illnesses, terminal and otherwise, among children and adults.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/159237/reftab/73/t/Green-economy-seen-as-need-of-the-hour/Default.aspx
Renewable energy is looked upon as a vital element by major economies in the world. This fact can be seen in the vast amounts spent in research and development in this field globally. The expenditure on renewable energy projects touched around $200 billion worldwide.
There is an evident competition burgeoning among the nations in the race to master renewable energy sources on all fronts.
The world has awakened to the fact that the future belongs to those who can efficiently tap, use and supply clean energy.In the coming years we will see great moves made in terms of planning in the field of renewable energy.
Sun, wind and tides will be exploited to harness energy and make the world more energy efficient and with surplus energy.
At another level, there is a drive the world over to bring about greater awareness on the importance of green energy and the responsibilities of citizens to leave less carbon footprint in their daily lives. Factories and individuals have already begun to adopt more environmentally friendly ways of consuming energy, and the green drive is also proving to be beneficial to the economy by creating more green jobs. Backed by the governments, these initiatives have already begun to show fruitful results.Speaking locally, I feel the Environment Public Authority (EPA) in Kuwait should take up a more active role to control pollution in the south of the country in Umm Al Haiman. The issue must be given due importance and legal proceedings must be taken up against the perpetrators. We must file for civil damages to make those who are responsible for harming the environment and the health of ordinary citizens to pay. Some of the refineries that spew out toxic waste into the atmosphere are situated dangerously close to residential areas and have been identified as the main cause for the increasing incidence of lung cancer and other illnesses, terminal and otherwise, among children and adults.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/159237/reftab/73/t/Green-economy-seen-as-need-of-the-hour/Default.aspx
Thursday 19 August 2010
‘Kuwaiti law does not recognise unregistered deals’
Labeed Ameen’s firm specialises in cross-border disputes
Labeed Abdal Mohammed Ameen is a lawyer with his own private practice. He has a Masters in Law from Kuwait University. His firm handles both civil and criminal cases, with an especial focus on commercial cases involving Multi National Companies and cross-border commercial disputes.When the disputes are cross border, it is a bit involved. “We have a team of special lawyers to handle such cases to coordinate between the laws of the two countries and build up a strong strategy for defense.” IrregularitiesLabeed and his team have to be conversant with the laws of the countries where the disputing parties belong, and have to be constantly updated to be on par with the changes in the laws. When asked to recall some of his most interesting cases, a host of legal battles came rushing to his mind. Recently there was a case filed by a plaintiff in the UAE against a Kuwaiti subcontracting company. The dispute was regarding construction materials imported by the company from the plaintiff, and some alleged irregularities in the transaction. Labeed built up a strong case for his Kuwaiti client and won the case.
Kuwait is a big economy and the companies here have many multi-national deals. In another instance, a local company got into a legal confrontation with importers in India and China. It was over payments for pipes and other materials bought for construction works in the oil industry. PartnershipLabeed’s word of advice for businesses and entrepreneurs in Kuwait is firstly that they have to be aware of their legal responsibilities. “Make sure you register your company and all agreements related to your business.”
In the case of a foreign partnership, where a Kuwait company is functioning as an agent, there is what is called an agent agreement which needs to be registered according to the format given by the ministry. Most companies don’t register their agreements in which the terms of profit sharing and other details of the business are mentioned.
Kuwaiti law does not recognize any unregistered deals or agreements. This advice holds good for the foreign business community in Kuwait as well.
In Labeed’s experience, he has seen many foreign entrepreneurs entering into agreements that are actually inimical to their interests. They do this without being fully aware of the law or its ramifications. In such instances, he advices entrepreneurs to seek legal help before signing into any agreement. Loan sharks pose another challenge to entrepreneurs, who often find themselves strapped for cash and are on the look out for financiers. It is this scenario the unscrupulous loan sharks take advantage of. Labeed’s advises businessmen to be wary of such loan sharks and to borrow money only from credible financiers, from the right channels.
SponsorsSome foreign entrepreneurs enter into business agreements with Kuwaiti sponsors without registering the agreement documents, says Labeed. “Initially, the partners are very close and there is a tendency to trust one another. Agreements are made merely in spoken words, and nothing is put in black and white.”However, the lawyer adds, when the business is up and running and when the partners begin to see real money, their true colors begin to emerge. “The foreign partners are short changed with the sponsor going down on his promises.”
Then there is what is called Side Agreements, or Sleeping Partner Agreements. Under this, an entrepreneur offers his skills to a company for a share in the profits. Such agreements are almost never registered, and more often than not end up in legal wrangling.
In cross-border disputes, Labeed does not always represent the Kuwaiti side. Even foreign parties appoint Labeed to fight their case in Kuwait. Recently, a Swiss company sought the legal help of Labeed to sue a Kuwaiti commercial agent, who was authorized by the Swiss firm to market a food product in Kuwait. The agent did not fulfill the target as specified in the agreement. “The Swiss company approached us to terminate the contract and appoint a new agent for them. The former agent, meanwhile, went to the court claiming compensation, and we are now defending our client.”Labeed advises foreign entrepreneurs to be active in commercial forums of their respective communities, as these organizations will be in touch with their embassies and the Commercial and Economic Council, which can provide due guidance in business matters.
By: Valiya S. Sajjad
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/158469/t/%E2%80%98Kuwaiti-law-does-not-recognise-unregistered-deals%E2%80%99/Default.aspx
Labeed Abdal Mohammed Ameen is a lawyer with his own private practice. He has a Masters in Law from Kuwait University. His firm handles both civil and criminal cases, with an especial focus on commercial cases involving Multi National Companies and cross-border commercial disputes.When the disputes are cross border, it is a bit involved. “We have a team of special lawyers to handle such cases to coordinate between the laws of the two countries and build up a strong strategy for defense.” IrregularitiesLabeed and his team have to be conversant with the laws of the countries where the disputing parties belong, and have to be constantly updated to be on par with the changes in the laws. When asked to recall some of his most interesting cases, a host of legal battles came rushing to his mind. Recently there was a case filed by a plaintiff in the UAE against a Kuwaiti subcontracting company. The dispute was regarding construction materials imported by the company from the plaintiff, and some alleged irregularities in the transaction. Labeed built up a strong case for his Kuwaiti client and won the case.
Kuwait is a big economy and the companies here have many multi-national deals. In another instance, a local company got into a legal confrontation with importers in India and China. It was over payments for pipes and other materials bought for construction works in the oil industry. PartnershipLabeed’s word of advice for businesses and entrepreneurs in Kuwait is firstly that they have to be aware of their legal responsibilities. “Make sure you register your company and all agreements related to your business.”
In the case of a foreign partnership, where a Kuwait company is functioning as an agent, there is what is called an agent agreement which needs to be registered according to the format given by the ministry. Most companies don’t register their agreements in which the terms of profit sharing and other details of the business are mentioned.
Kuwaiti law does not recognize any unregistered deals or agreements. This advice holds good for the foreign business community in Kuwait as well.
In Labeed’s experience, he has seen many foreign entrepreneurs entering into agreements that are actually inimical to their interests. They do this without being fully aware of the law or its ramifications. In such instances, he advices entrepreneurs to seek legal help before signing into any agreement. Loan sharks pose another challenge to entrepreneurs, who often find themselves strapped for cash and are on the look out for financiers. It is this scenario the unscrupulous loan sharks take advantage of. Labeed’s advises businessmen to be wary of such loan sharks and to borrow money only from credible financiers, from the right channels.
SponsorsSome foreign entrepreneurs enter into business agreements with Kuwaiti sponsors without registering the agreement documents, says Labeed. “Initially, the partners are very close and there is a tendency to trust one another. Agreements are made merely in spoken words, and nothing is put in black and white.”However, the lawyer adds, when the business is up and running and when the partners begin to see real money, their true colors begin to emerge. “The foreign partners are short changed with the sponsor going down on his promises.”
Then there is what is called Side Agreements, or Sleeping Partner Agreements. Under this, an entrepreneur offers his skills to a company for a share in the profits. Such agreements are almost never registered, and more often than not end up in legal wrangling.
In cross-border disputes, Labeed does not always represent the Kuwaiti side. Even foreign parties appoint Labeed to fight their case in Kuwait. Recently, a Swiss company sought the legal help of Labeed to sue a Kuwaiti commercial agent, who was authorized by the Swiss firm to market a food product in Kuwait. The agent did not fulfill the target as specified in the agreement. “The Swiss company approached us to terminate the contract and appoint a new agent for them. The former agent, meanwhile, went to the court claiming compensation, and we are now defending our client.”Labeed advises foreign entrepreneurs to be active in commercial forums of their respective communities, as these organizations will be in touch with their embassies and the Commercial and Economic Council, which can provide due guidance in business matters.
By: Valiya S. Sajjad
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/158469/t/%E2%80%98Kuwaiti-law-does-not-recognise-unregistered-deals%E2%80%99/Default.aspx
Kuwait lawyer on Hariri panel
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 17: The Admission Panel of the Special Tribunal of Lebanon (STL) in the Netherlands approved the admission of Kuwaiti attorney Labeed Abdal to the list of Defense Counsel’s List Monday.The attorney was speaking to the Arab Times Tuesday following his appointment to the tribunal. Labeed will be the first lawyer from Kuwait and the Gulf region listed in a special tribunal that has an international character “because the STL was established following the request of the Lebanese government to the UN to conduct the trial of the people allegedly involved in the assassination of former premiere Rafiq Al Hariri.“The UN and the Lebanese government negotiated an agreement and formed the STL, which came into force on May 2007.”
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/158409/t/Kuwait-lawyer-on-Hariri-panel/Default.aspx
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/158409/t/Kuwait-lawyer-on-Hariri-panel/Default.aspx
Monday 9 August 2010
PM’s Lat. Am visit crucial
THE recent visit of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, along with a number of ministers and a high-level trade delegation, to South America is vital in the Kuwaiti government’s move towards an important continent.Rekindling ties with Latin America through the premier’s visit to Cuba, Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Mexico is crucial in promoting the KD 37 billion development plan of Kuwait, in addition to attracting foreign investors to the country. This requires the full cooperation of both wings of Kuwait’s democracy.The Parliament and government are expected to exert tremendous efforts to reach a solid agreement on the development program of the executive and other future projects, especially in the infrastructure and economic sectors. This is pertinent since the Kuwaiti Cabinet is appointed by HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in accordance with Article 56 of the Constitution, while members of the Parliament are elected into office.The private sector and foreign business communities in Kuwait expect both authorities to take more positive steps, as the country could no longer afford any tension between the two authorities, which usually clash at the beginning of each legislative round.Foreign business councils, circles and forums under the umbrella of many important embassies in Kuwait must be given a better chance to develop investment opportunities between Kuwait and other countries in the world, considering their dedicated and continuous efforts for Kuwait and the whole business community.Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/157918/Default.aspx
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/157918/Default.aspx
Saturday 31 July 2010
Lessons from Iraqi invasion
I was in Iraq as a POW during the last state of liberating Kuwait by the allied forces after invading it by the Iraqi forces on the Aug 2, 1990.
The experience there was totally inhuman, against the Geneva Convention and totally not expected from a close Muslim & Arab neighbour.
After the Iraqis felt the eminent air and land strikes, they started to arrest Kuwaiti civilians from streets and homes, to keep them in hand when exchanging for their Iraqi POWs.
As Kuwait is approaching the 20th anniversary of the invasion, I find it essential to go through some of the lessons of that experience and to talk about the needed measures for our coming future:
1) We need to protect the rule of Law, Freedoms and equality for all the people on this soil.
2) Kuwait as a small country between three giant neighbours, we need strong long term ties with the strategic friends and allies to protect our security and existence.
3) Fortunately, we do have strong and growing budget we need to invest more in education, as it is the long term investment for the coming future generations of this country.
4) It is important to keep strong business relations with the east and the west, to maintain steady cooperation with the world, which truly helped in our difficult days.
5) As Iraq is reaching stability slowly and hopefully surly, we will need to benefit from the bright side of our neighbourhood and try to build bridges between us, even if in new free trade zones in the south of Iraq and the north of Kuwait.
6) The Gulf Cooperation Council must be utilized for a better regional economy, given the regional economical growth and financial stability for all the GCC members.
7) Kuwait as a financial centre will require comprehensive legislative and administrative steps to make real changes in the doing business environment of Kuwait and be able to compete on the regional and the global levels...
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com/
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/157506/reftab/73/t/Lessons-from-Iraqi-invasion/Default.aspx
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
The experience there was totally inhuman, against the Geneva Convention and totally not expected from a close Muslim & Arab neighbour.
After the Iraqis felt the eminent air and land strikes, they started to arrest Kuwaiti civilians from streets and homes, to keep them in hand when exchanging for their Iraqi POWs.
As Kuwait is approaching the 20th anniversary of the invasion, I find it essential to go through some of the lessons of that experience and to talk about the needed measures for our coming future:
1) We need to protect the rule of Law, Freedoms and equality for all the people on this soil.
2) Kuwait as a small country between three giant neighbours, we need strong long term ties with the strategic friends and allies to protect our security and existence.
3) Fortunately, we do have strong and growing budget we need to invest more in education, as it is the long term investment for the coming future generations of this country.
4) It is important to keep strong business relations with the east and the west, to maintain steady cooperation with the world, which truly helped in our difficult days.
5) As Iraq is reaching stability slowly and hopefully surly, we will need to benefit from the bright side of our neighbourhood and try to build bridges between us, even if in new free trade zones in the south of Iraq and the north of Kuwait.
6) The Gulf Cooperation Council must be utilized for a better regional economy, given the regional economical growth and financial stability for all the GCC members.
7) Kuwait as a financial centre will require comprehensive legislative and administrative steps to make real changes in the doing business environment of Kuwait and be able to compete on the regional and the global levels...
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com/
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/157506/reftab/73/t/Lessons-from-Iraqi-invasion/Default.aspx
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
Friday 23 July 2010
Traffic cameras in Kuwait
Installing cameras in the streets were meant to be a way to minimize accidents and save lives.Yet, one can clearly see that, it became an indirect way to impose taxes, when the cameras are installed in the streets without proper indications such as camera signs, the differences between streets, its speed, its users and the recent developments in the car industry.Moreover, sometimes these cameras have become a reason for the increase in accidents rates instead of decreasing it, because of the sudden effects of the flashes that make the drivers panic and induce them to apply strong breaks so as to avoid traffic fine and causes more crashes for the vehicles following them.In the existing Traffic Law of Kuwait, cameras were not mentioned clearly and the M.O.I. is imposing fines on the drivers depending on mere ministerial decrees, which should be swiftly amended as per the constitutional provisions of Kuwait which requires applying fines by the relevant traffic laws, which should have been released by the parliament to authorize the levying of fines.For sure it is a must, we all need to prevent car wars in the streets because of any reckless speed driving and negligent or deliberate crossing of red traffic lights and for that we need to have solid legal grounds to collect fines. Also we need to assure that for some streets a little bit higher speeds should be allowed, as the new generation cars are not like those 30 years ago, given the new models of cars with hybrid engines that give high speed from 0-100 MPH in seconds, with little consumption of fuel and less pollution.Adding enough traffic signs, using electronic alerts and enough distance between the locations of the cameras to give the drivers sufficient time to reduce speed, will make it more meaningful to actually have safer streets with less threats to the innocent people.Light and shadeWe need quick measures and media campaigns in all languages from the Ministry of Interior — The Public Authority for Traffic Affairs to deploy vigilant police officers at the zebra crossings on the important places and busy junctions in Kuwait, so as to assure the absolute protection of the pedestrians and save lives.The effective measures and campaigns which were done before, regarding the use of seat belts while driving on the streets, through the media were successful and we want that to happen again...
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot..com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/157187/reftab/96/t/Traffic-cameras-in-Kuwait/Default.aspx
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.labeedabdal.blogspot..com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/157187/reftab/96/t/Traffic-cameras-in-Kuwait/Default.aspx
The sorry state of education
There is a kind of sorry state in the education system in Kuwait, as there are the public schools and the private schools, which are getting into unresolved difficulties and big challenges in different ways, while we are not a country of dearth of resources.In the public schools main challenge is to have good educators who are committed to their normal obligation of moulding and building the young generation in their educational career with providing quality information and skills.In the private schools, you will find good and committed teachers, who crossed oceans and came to Kuwait and get confronted with the private schools administrations, whom some times prefer the parents and in some cases their spoiled children than the needed respect for the teaches and their respective disciplinary role in the class.The education system in Kuwait went through long history and started from the mid of 20th century by Al Katatib system. Which are Quranic schools taught reading, writing and some maths by individual teachers and started to become formal education by the government by taking control of education in 1939.With respect to the old and long history, it presently requires more control from the Ministry of Education to supervise the operation of public and private schools and maintain a better grip on the educational system, to reach more modern goals away from the mentioned difficulties and concerns with more justice and fairness for all parties of the educational process.Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
Blog: www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/Default.aspx?TabId=96&smid=414&ArticleID=156927&reftab=73&t=The-sorry-state-of-education
Blog: www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney at Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/Default.aspx?TabId=96&smid=414&ArticleID=156927&reftab=73&t=The-sorry-state-of-education
Saturday 10 July 2010
Fostering charity culture in Kuwait
Need to make easier means to facilitate, up donations
Charity has been part of the Kuwaiti culture since the early beginning of this society more than 300 years ago.Historically merchants supported the society by building schools, paying for teachers, promoting sports clubs and newspapers and magazines.Whereas in the existing times, charity became more religiously centered and generally known to be away from the civil society activities in some cases and its willingness to contribute for those who are in need, no matter their religion, origin, sex or background.We need to make easier means to facilitate and increase donation to people in need, such as the patients with serious illnesses like heart problems or cancer, the elderly people with lack of means for protection, sick, deserted children, people with disability and low paid workers, etc.Philanthropic undertakings should include nationals, foreigners and expatriates in need and foreign organizations should be allowed to contribute if they are willing to participate in, as the expatriate community still are integral part of the society and they share its highs and lows.There should be sufficient legal guarantee and strong institutional support to increase donations from the non-profit organizations and with no terrorism background or fear.However, impose strict measures in the collection, such as stipulation to payments only through K-net and a close watch on the utilization of the funds, by the concerned authorities to prevent doubtful situation of charity, as we need by all means to increase the responsible charity education and the culture of sharing.The charity concerns everybody and not only the rich or the government. Somebody thinking the charity should be only within the country and someone thinking it is not good for the business. In reality we need to uphold the charity as a social responsibility of the companies and the society’s core values, where it should be part of the public awareness of the need of living together in peace and prosperity.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/156571/t/Fostering-charity-culture-in-Kuwait/Default.aspx
Charity has been part of the Kuwaiti culture since the early beginning of this society more than 300 years ago.Historically merchants supported the society by building schools, paying for teachers, promoting sports clubs and newspapers and magazines.Whereas in the existing times, charity became more religiously centered and generally known to be away from the civil society activities in some cases and its willingness to contribute for those who are in need, no matter their religion, origin, sex or background.We need to make easier means to facilitate and increase donation to people in need, such as the patients with serious illnesses like heart problems or cancer, the elderly people with lack of means for protection, sick, deserted children, people with disability and low paid workers, etc.Philanthropic undertakings should include nationals, foreigners and expatriates in need and foreign organizations should be allowed to contribute if they are willing to participate in, as the expatriate community still are integral part of the society and they share its highs and lows.There should be sufficient legal guarantee and strong institutional support to increase donations from the non-profit organizations and with no terrorism background or fear.However, impose strict measures in the collection, such as stipulation to payments only through K-net and a close watch on the utilization of the funds, by the concerned authorities to prevent doubtful situation of charity, as we need by all means to increase the responsible charity education and the culture of sharing.The charity concerns everybody and not only the rich or the government. Somebody thinking the charity should be only within the country and someone thinking it is not good for the business. In reality we need to uphold the charity as a social responsibility of the companies and the society’s core values, where it should be part of the public awareness of the need of living together in peace and prosperity.
Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
www.labeedabdal.blogspot.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/RSS/tabid/69/smid/414/ArticleID/156571/t/Fostering-charity-culture-in-Kuwait/Default.aspx
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