While the number of Emiratis voting at UAE embassies while working, studying or holidaying overseas is likely to be modest, their decision to shape the fourth version of the Federal National Council is anything but. Previously, those eligible to vote had to be in the country if they wanted the chance to voice their view about who represented them on the consultative body, but that failed to reflect the way Emiratis now often stand on a global stage.
This time, ballot boxes have been set up in 94 locations overseas, with votes being recorded two weeks ahead of the October 3 FNC election. With many Emiratis enjoying extended summer holidays overseas, this initiative will ensure as many as possible of the 224,279 eligible voters will be able to voice their choice. This wider enfranchisement matches the more active campaigning by prospective FNC members.
As we reported yesterday, about 50 voters were expected to go to the UAE’s embassy in London to cast their ballots in the two days of overseas polling. Among the factors that influenced the decisions of some of those who spoke to The National were the youth and level of education of the candidates, whether they articulated their views through meetings and campaign literature rather than solely relying on social media, whether they had made an effort to reach out to the voters and whether they intend to raise domestic issues such as Dubai’s traffic congestion.
Given the small numbers of eligible voters overseas, one might ask why this is important. One reason is that the FNC needs to reflect the views of as many eligible voters as possible, including those whose lives have drawn them outside the UAE. Another is that their effort should spur their compatriots at home to vote on October 3. The FNC will work best if it reflects most accurately the attitudes of ordinary Emiratis in majilis and around kitchen tables, no matter where they happen to be.
