‘Vote’ a vital universal step
PRESENTING the proposed establishment of an independent Palestinian state to the United Nations (UN) for voting in September is a vital universal step, which will lead to a peaceful end to a prolonged dispute.The Palestinians and all the international advocates of the proposal should consider the need to support the bilateral interests of both sides, in addition to narrowing the gap between the Palestinians and the Israelis. The UN General Assembly has always been supportive of the legitimate dream of the Palestinians and more is expected of the Security Council not to veto the proposal again. I think the issue does not involve the Palestinians alone, because it also affects the moderate people of Israel who want peace in the region. People from both sides are willing to live in peace as neighbors and to stop bloodshed and deaths. A unified declaration of independence and full UN support are possible only if Europe will also promote the Palestinian state in the General Assembly. This might convince all members of the Security Council to endorse the proposal.However, seeing the same results only means that the endless dispute, along with its dire consequences, is more beneficial to some hidden parties rather than resolving the issue!Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-Law
http://arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/168395/reftab/36/t/New-Palestinian-state/Default.aspx
http://arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/168395/reftab/36/t/New-Palestinian-state/Default.aspx
Monday, 25 April 2011
Friday, 1 April 2011
Voice of support for Japan
We can still learn valuable lessons THE massive and unprecedented earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan recently are one of the worst natural disasters, resulting in the destruction of buildings, bridges and farms. Over 9,500 people died and more than 16,000 were reported missing. It is considered the most horrifying catastrophe that Japan witnessed since the Hiroshima bombing 60 years ago. Besides the twin natural disasters, Japan is also grappling with the rising radiation levels. The whole world is expected to stand by Japan and its people not only due to the magnitude of the crisis but also the nation’s long history of generous contributions to the international community, especially the East and the West. Considering the previous calamities experienced by other countries, such as those in South Asia or America (Hurricane Katrina), everybody should take serious steps to establish global monitoring centers with satellites to warn the people and give them enough time to take the necessary precautionary measures. This will minimize, if not prevent, the loss of human lives and properties. Disasters may cause pain, despair and depression, and people might not be able to stop them, but we can still learn valuable lessons, such as effective ways to deal with catastrophes in the future. The entire world must come together to give hope to the people in Japan and help in the reconstruction process. Japan cannot overcome such a devastating crisis without the support of the international community. Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By: By Labed Abdal - Attorney-at-law http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/167438/reftab/73/t/Voice-of-support-for-Japan/Default.aspx
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Libya and the Changing equastion
Planned strategy on missile strikes vital The missile strikes against Libya need to be carried out as per a planned strategy which will include the duration and the final targets as the operation might take weeks and months without any signs of progress or end in sight. There is no doubt that the international community was forced to come to rescue after seeing the brutal actions of the Libyan dictator against his people, yet there are hopes that this north African desert will not become another example of a never-ending war. However, many questions need to be answered like how long the allies will be there, who will take power when Gaddafi leaves, and how many safety valves can be placed. Also, there must be efforts to provide legitimacy to the new ruler after the actual removal of the corrupt regime. Moreover, the operations of the US, UK and France must be limited to avoid any ground wars which are costly and long, especially since we are in the middle of a global financial crisis. In light of the existing circumstances, it seems the best solution is to engage the UN forces as peace keepers with the involvement of Arab League (after heavy and limited air strikes on target sites) and propose a truce in order to manage a power transition without bloodshed and to prevent another Iraq or Afghanistan in North Africa. Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By: Labeed Abdal http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/167269/reftab/73/t/Libya-and-the-changing-equation/Default.aspx
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Arabs face challenges
Direction lost
THE Middle East recently witnessed unprecedented changes, which were not possible in the 1920s or 1930s. It seems the wave of protests in the region is part of the new world order due to the sudden change in the attitude of the Arabs towards their old regimes. So far, most of the uprisings have been triggered by poverty, absence of better opportunities or jobs and freedom of expression.
Several Arab regimes have started implementing legal and administrative reforms, even if it is too late, just to please the people and defuse their anger. However, the situation has been chaotic and uncertain for many years.
The level of uncertainty became too high, shocking the so-called ‘superpowers’ and ‘observers’. They suddenly lost direction due to the remarkable changes in the rules of the game, particularly the regulations laid down after World War I.
We can compare the current situation to a delicate surgery, which requires careful pre and post-operation preparations. This makes us wonder if the old rules will be implemented again. Will the new rules lead to real freedom in the Arab nations? Or it depends on the Sudanese separation model that might be used in Iraq, Egypt, Libya and maybe Syria.
The Arab countries are currently facing a number of challenges, but it all depends on what they can say or do for their future in the presence of the strong Middle Eastern or global powers.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/166479/reftab/73/t/Arabs-face-challenges/Default.aspx
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
THE Middle East recently witnessed unprecedented changes, which were not possible in the 1920s or 1930s. It seems the wave of protests in the region is part of the new world order due to the sudden change in the attitude of the Arabs towards their old regimes. So far, most of the uprisings have been triggered by poverty, absence of better opportunities or jobs and freedom of expression.
Several Arab regimes have started implementing legal and administrative reforms, even if it is too late, just to please the people and defuse their anger. However, the situation has been chaotic and uncertain for many years.
The level of uncertainty became too high, shocking the so-called ‘superpowers’ and ‘observers’. They suddenly lost direction due to the remarkable changes in the rules of the game, particularly the regulations laid down after World War I.
We can compare the current situation to a delicate surgery, which requires careful pre and post-operation preparations. This makes us wonder if the old rules will be implemented again. Will the new rules lead to real freedom in the Arab nations? Or it depends on the Sudanese separation model that might be used in Iraq, Egypt, Libya and maybe Syria.
The Arab countries are currently facing a number of challenges, but it all depends on what they can say or do for their future in the presence of the strong Middle Eastern or global powers.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/166479/reftab/73/t/Arabs-face-challenges/Default.aspx
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Equal rights urged
Multiculturalism vital
The Daily Telegraph, on Feb 5, 2011, published an article about British Prime Minister David Cameron’s speech on national identity and religious tolerance in which he said there is ‘passive tolerance’ for divided communities.The British system believes in freedom of speech and religion, democracy and equal rights regardless of race or sex. Proclaiming a doctrine of ‘muscular liberation,’ Cameron said everyone, from ministers to ordinary voters, should actively confront those who hold extremist views, and warned that groups that fail to promote British values will no longer receive public money or be able to engage with the state.He made the speech at an international security conference in Munich, after Daily Telegraph disclosed the extent to which British intelligence community fears the ‘unique threat’ of terrorist attacks by radicalized British Muslims.Cameron’s talk was realistic and must be taken seriously by the British community without any blame game, as I must say there are legitimate channels for those who acquired British nationality to give their opinion. In fact, even the second or third generation immigrants have this right and are given full and equal rights in education, health and employment.In multicultural societies, immigrants should make positive, healthy and responsible contribution in the exchange of cultures, not by terror and without trying to undermine others. The system too should ensure that whites and all others are fairly treated.Moreover, in democratic systems in all parts of the world, the governments and parliaments do reflect the development of laws, public rights and liberties by maintaining the rights of people to vote and have representation in parliament which highly reflects the voice of people and the nation in general and helps in creation of a public culture and setting limits without the need of radical or extreme ways of expression.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/166122/reftab/36/t/Equal-rights-urged/Default.aspx
The Daily Telegraph, on Feb 5, 2011, published an article about British Prime Minister David Cameron’s speech on national identity and religious tolerance in which he said there is ‘passive tolerance’ for divided communities.The British system believes in freedom of speech and religion, democracy and equal rights regardless of race or sex. Proclaiming a doctrine of ‘muscular liberation,’ Cameron said everyone, from ministers to ordinary voters, should actively confront those who hold extremist views, and warned that groups that fail to promote British values will no longer receive public money or be able to engage with the state.He made the speech at an international security conference in Munich, after Daily Telegraph disclosed the extent to which British intelligence community fears the ‘unique threat’ of terrorist attacks by radicalized British Muslims.Cameron’s talk was realistic and must be taken seriously by the British community without any blame game, as I must say there are legitimate channels for those who acquired British nationality to give their opinion. In fact, even the second or third generation immigrants have this right and are given full and equal rights in education, health and employment.In multicultural societies, immigrants should make positive, healthy and responsible contribution in the exchange of cultures, not by terror and without trying to undermine others. The system too should ensure that whites and all others are fairly treated.Moreover, in democratic systems in all parts of the world, the governments and parliaments do reflect the development of laws, public rights and liberties by maintaining the rights of people to vote and have representation in parliament which highly reflects the voice of people and the nation in general and helps in creation of a public culture and setting limits without the need of radical or extreme ways of expression.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/166122/reftab/36/t/Equal-rights-urged/Default.aspx
Monday, 14 February 2011
Hu’s visit opens new doors to boost American-Chinese ties
Both parties tackle important issues
CHINESE President Hu Jintao met his American counterpart, Barack Obama, when he visited the US recently. During the meeting, both leaders reached an agreement to strengthen ties between the two nations based on mutual respect and benefit. This visit has opened new doors for the American-Chinese relations to prosper, considering both parties had looked into a number of important issues like the dispute between North and South Korea, Iran’s nuclear project, situation in Tibet, currency wars, human rights in China and many other global challenges.The visit also signaled the closure of the cold war chapter between the East and the West, while providing opportunities for working together and building mutual trust, away from the unrest brought about by loss of trust and mounting uncertainty.The two nations’ intention to embark on projects with an estimated total cost of $45 billion is a huge step towards building new strategic relationships, bridging gaps and creating a new structure of economic cooperation. This ushers in a new era of construction, stability and development between the two nations and the world, instead of harming each other.Moreover, the meeting has not only focused on issues concerning the US and China but also the international security concerns. These two countries are not ordinary members of the United Nations (UN); they are responsible and major players in the Security Council, which must put world peace and security on top of its priority list, especially this time when the international community is gearing towards a new world order — multi-polarity.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/165557/reftab/73/Default.aspx
CHINESE President Hu Jintao met his American counterpart, Barack Obama, when he visited the US recently. During the meeting, both leaders reached an agreement to strengthen ties between the two nations based on mutual respect and benefit. This visit has opened new doors for the American-Chinese relations to prosper, considering both parties had looked into a number of important issues like the dispute between North and South Korea, Iran’s nuclear project, situation in Tibet, currency wars, human rights in China and many other global challenges.The visit also signaled the closure of the cold war chapter between the East and the West, while providing opportunities for working together and building mutual trust, away from the unrest brought about by loss of trust and mounting uncertainty.The two nations’ intention to embark on projects with an estimated total cost of $45 billion is a huge step towards building new strategic relationships, bridging gaps and creating a new structure of economic cooperation. This ushers in a new era of construction, stability and development between the two nations and the world, instead of harming each other.Moreover, the meeting has not only focused on issues concerning the US and China but also the international security concerns. These two countries are not ordinary members of the United Nations (UN); they are responsible and major players in the Security Council, which must put world peace and security on top of its priority list, especially this time when the international community is gearing towards a new world order — multi-polarity.Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/165557/reftab/73/Default.aspx
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
‘Tunisia-effect’ likely to hit more Middle East countries, says Abdal
‘We would like to see Iraq democratic’
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 1: Tunisia triggered a snowball effect of change in the region by overthrowing its president through mass unrest. The effect is likely to rub on to more countries in the Middle East, says Kuwaiti lawyer Labeed Abdal.
The lawyer shared some of his insights into the politics, law and other issues in the region during a recent interview with the Arab Times.
Talking about the origins of Kuwait’s legal system, Labeed said Kuwait’s legal system came from the Latin system, “as our laws were drafted from Egyptian and French laws. Our system depends on codification of laws unlike the Anglo Saxon system which evolves laws from precedents”.
Labeed added that most of the legal advisers in the early times during the drafting of the constitution were Egyptians, “which is the reason that we took after the Latin system. Moreover, Egypt is one of the oldest Arab countries with an established legal system, and so we invited Egyptian legal experts to support us in the drafting of our laws.”
“Kuwait also borrowed from Islamic Sharia for laws relating to family matters, marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance, will and so on for Muslims.”
To a question on Kuwait’s claim of war indemnity from Iraq, the lawyer replied that it is based on a UN resolution. “Reparation for the damage caused by the Iraqi invasion is justified according to international law and justice.”
Moving to the subject of an emerging state in post-Bathist Iraq, Labeed noted the new constitution of Iraq reflects the aspirations of the Iraqis for their future. He hailed the innovative power-sharing model in which Shias are in control in the South, Sunnis in the central provinces and the Kurds in the North.
“We in Kuwait would like to see Iraq as a democratic country, stable and free, as they are our neighbors, and it will be to the benefit of the region for Iraq to prosper and be an active member in the international community. This is necessary for the peace and security of the region and the world at large.”
Labeed, who was honored by being included in the Special Tribunal (STL) of Lebanon for the trial of the alleged murderers of Lebanon’s late Prime Minister, Rafiq Hariri, said that he became an international lawyer after getting enlisted in the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Hague as a Defense Counsel. This gave him much experience in international criminal procedures and the ability to deal with international crimes including crimes against humanity and genocide.
“After being enlisted as a defense lawyer in the ICC, I became even more interested to register in the STL. I now had all the necessary credentials and was eager to work for international justice. And I was inducted into the tribunal”.
The investigations of the trial are still going on and the prosecution is gathering more evidence to be able to make a final list of the accused persons, Labeed added.
“The court was established by a request from the Lebanese government and accordingly a resolution by the UN Security Council was issued to establish and organize the court.”
Labeed feels the GCC is moving towards the formation of common currency, “and all the member states are doing everything in their capacity to make it happen”. He is confident that such a move will give a big boost to the region as it would open up free movement of capital and goods, and pave the way for a regional railroad network.
When asked if a common legal system for the GCC would be possible, Labeed said that there already are regional agreements that regulate trade, customs, transportation, agriculture and industry among others.
To a question on Kuwait’s developmental model in comparison to Dubai and Qatar, which is growing at a fast pace, Labeed replied that Kuwait is moving in the same direction, “especially after the new Development Plan, extending till 2035.
“Kuwait has already committed $ 145 billion for infrastructure including education, health and railroads.”
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Valiya S. Sajjad
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/165070/t/%E2%80%98Tunisia-effect%E2%80%99-likely-to-hit-more-Middle-East-countries,-says-Abdal/Default.aspx
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 1: Tunisia triggered a snowball effect of change in the region by overthrowing its president through mass unrest. The effect is likely to rub on to more countries in the Middle East, says Kuwaiti lawyer Labeed Abdal.
The lawyer shared some of his insights into the politics, law and other issues in the region during a recent interview with the Arab Times.
Talking about the origins of Kuwait’s legal system, Labeed said Kuwait’s legal system came from the Latin system, “as our laws were drafted from Egyptian and French laws. Our system depends on codification of laws unlike the Anglo Saxon system which evolves laws from precedents”.
Labeed added that most of the legal advisers in the early times during the drafting of the constitution were Egyptians, “which is the reason that we took after the Latin system. Moreover, Egypt is one of the oldest Arab countries with an established legal system, and so we invited Egyptian legal experts to support us in the drafting of our laws.”
“Kuwait also borrowed from Islamic Sharia for laws relating to family matters, marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance, will and so on for Muslims.”
To a question on Kuwait’s claim of war indemnity from Iraq, the lawyer replied that it is based on a UN resolution. “Reparation for the damage caused by the Iraqi invasion is justified according to international law and justice.”
Moving to the subject of an emerging state in post-Bathist Iraq, Labeed noted the new constitution of Iraq reflects the aspirations of the Iraqis for their future. He hailed the innovative power-sharing model in which Shias are in control in the South, Sunnis in the central provinces and the Kurds in the North.
“We in Kuwait would like to see Iraq as a democratic country, stable and free, as they are our neighbors, and it will be to the benefit of the region for Iraq to prosper and be an active member in the international community. This is necessary for the peace and security of the region and the world at large.”
Labeed, who was honored by being included in the Special Tribunal (STL) of Lebanon for the trial of the alleged murderers of Lebanon’s late Prime Minister, Rafiq Hariri, said that he became an international lawyer after getting enlisted in the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Hague as a Defense Counsel. This gave him much experience in international criminal procedures and the ability to deal with international crimes including crimes against humanity and genocide.
“After being enlisted as a defense lawyer in the ICC, I became even more interested to register in the STL. I now had all the necessary credentials and was eager to work for international justice. And I was inducted into the tribunal”.
The investigations of the trial are still going on and the prosecution is gathering more evidence to be able to make a final list of the accused persons, Labeed added.
“The court was established by a request from the Lebanese government and accordingly a resolution by the UN Security Council was issued to establish and organize the court.”
Labeed feels the GCC is moving towards the formation of common currency, “and all the member states are doing everything in their capacity to make it happen”. He is confident that such a move will give a big boost to the region as it would open up free movement of capital and goods, and pave the way for a regional railroad network.
When asked if a common legal system for the GCC would be possible, Labeed said that there already are regional agreements that regulate trade, customs, transportation, agriculture and industry among others.
To a question on Kuwait’s developmental model in comparison to Dubai and Qatar, which is growing at a fast pace, Labeed replied that Kuwait is moving in the same direction, “especially after the new Development Plan, extending till 2035.
“Kuwait has already committed $ 145 billion for infrastructure including education, health and railroads.”
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Valiya S. Sajjad
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/165070/t/%E2%80%98Tunisia-effect%E2%80%99-likely-to-hit-more-Middle-East-countries,-says-Abdal/Default.aspx
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