Power to bring about change
I think celebrities wield an immense power on the general public by virtue of their popularity or sometimes notoriety, and are often looked up to as role models (“Priyanka Chopra proud to meet Malala Yousafzai”, Gulf News, September 21. When they take up humanitarian causes and travel to disturbed areas, they are able to shine a spotlight on issues, which otherwise may not get the attention they deserve. Actor, George Clooney had taken up the issue of the Darfur people in Sudan a few years ago. As a result, a lot of people who hadn’t heard of Sudan were interested in the conflict and the fate of the affected people. More recently, his wife Amal Clooney took up the cause of the atrocities faced by the Yazidi tribe at the hands of Daesh. In a similar manner, Princess Diana was responsible for bringing the issue of land mines to the forefront. All these actions have a definite positive impact in generating awareness and urging governments and international organisations to take action to set things right. The initiative taken by the UN to appoint Goodwill Ambassadors over the years is a wonderful idea and must be continued.
From Ms Monisha Krishna
Dubai
Bigger impact and reach
I think celebrities can have a huge impact as Goodwill Ambassadors for the UN, because of their global reach. Celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Jackie Chan and David Beckham who have a huge fan followings can use their online platforms to advocate for a specific cause. Often, celebrities face criticism for their philanthropic efforts as some people might view them as publicity stunts, and some might say that they are too detached from reality. What I have always appreciated about Goodwill Ambassadors is that their impact is beyond monetary donations. A lot of the ambassadors go on missions to regions that require the most aid. On these missions they interact with the citizens, understand their needs and relay that back to the individuals who can help the most. These ambassadors can act as a bridge between these citizens and the rest of the world by sharing their stories and realities.
From Ms Divya Suri
Dubai
Finances affects everyone
Many companies are being closed because of financial problems (“Golden Fork bakeries shut amid pay dispute”, Gulf News, September 21). Even after opening a case at the police station and taking it to court for their pending payments, there is no strict or fast action to solve this matter. It is very sad.
From Mr Faizan Assad
India
Facebook comment
India: An example of peace
The recent comment made by the Indian Congress Vice President, Rahul Gandhi, in the US about peace and harmony are being challenged in India, and this is unfortunate (“UPA failed to create enough jobs, Modi government unable to either, Rahul Gandhi says”, Gulf News, September 20). In all areas, India has demonstrated that it has qualities of peace and harmony, and the entire globe knows this as they have seen different diversities, religions and faiths living in India. India is a living example to the world.
From Mr K. Ragavan
India
Discrimination is present
There is a lot of hidden racism and discrimination sometimes (“UAE launches Gender Balance Guide for workplace”, Gulf News, September 20). If you need proof then one should look at the job specifications posted for people. You will see the word “only” in advertisements! I don’t need to elaborate on this because a lot of people face this kind of idiocy in their work place. Sometimes, passports are more important than skills, knowledge and experience. As for gender, there is discrimination when it comes to engineering professions for most female engineers.
From Ms Cassandra Debbie Sandra Jr.
UAE
Facebook comment
Discrimination of colour
If you go to an office, you will find a person who can’t write, read or speak but has been employed because they are from the same country as the manager. In most cases it is enough for him to be an operations supervisor.
From Mr Yazid Kiwanuka
UAE
Facebook comment
Performance is key
No doubt our spinner, Kuldeep Yadav had plotted the downfall of David Warner during the Test match at Dharmshala and during the One Day International (ODI) at Chepauk. That doesn’t mean that he can continue to take his wickets easily. We remember similar comments made by Henry Olanga of Zimbabwe in 1998 ODI series in Sharjah, when he managed to get Sachin Tendulkar out. However, in the next game Sachin targeted Olanga and tore his bowling to score 50 runs in just six overs. There have been many such instances. Even Glenn McGrath had to eat his words against Sachin Tenulkar. I hope Kuldeep doesn’t face a similar situation. It is better to perform on the field than off it.
From Mr N. Mahadevan
UAE
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