Hate speech must not be allowed to flourish online

Our readers have their say about hate speech, delivery riders, a Sikh biking club, and Saudi Arabia's first female pilot

Philip Neville Arps, left, appears for sentencing in the Christchurch District Court, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Tuesday, June 18, 2019.  The Christchurch businessman who shared a video of worshippers being slaughtered at a New Zealand mosque has been sentenced to 21 months in prison. (John Kirk-Anderson/Pool via AP)
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I write to you in reference to your editorial Sharing offensive materials should be a hate crime everywhere (June 19).

This editorial on hate speech was an interesting and thought-provoking read. More must be done to curb hate speech online and I truly believe that New Zealand is taking the lead on this issue.

The country recently convicted a man who shared a video of the Christchurch mosque attacks, which were livestreamed by the alleged perpetrator on social media.

The international community should come together and devise a law to punish people who spread hate speech and promote violence using social media and online forums.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Delivery riders deserve better working conditions during the summer

I write to you in reference to Ian Oxborrow's article UAE's midday break for outdoor workers begins (June 15). The UAE's mandatory midday break for people working outdoors during the summer months will come into force on Saturday. I applaud the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation for this truly humanitarian initiative that will make many people's lives better.

The fact an official break has been established, from 12.30pm until 3pm each day, is key to providing relief for hardworking labourers.

The mandatory break will last until September 15 for all work carried out in open places.

However, this will not apply to delivery riders, who must work during lunchtime. I think it would only be fair that authorities consider their tough work conditions in the summertime and try to find suitable solutions for them.

This will bring great relief for thousands of workers, particularly in the Year of Tolerance.

K V Shamsudheen, Sharjah

Sikh biking club brings together tradition and youth culture

I write to you in reference to a video by The National titled Meet The Turbanators, the Sikh bikers of the UAE (June 18). This video put a huge smile on my face. What a fantastic way to combine one's passion with positive change, and ancient traditions. I love the name of the Sikh biking club as well.

Neha Khandwani, Dubai

Sky’s the limit for first Saudi woman to become a pilot

I write to you in reference to Hayley Skirka's article Saudi Arabia's first female commercial pilot wants others to soar in her flight path (June 18).

Congratulations to Captain Yasmeen Al Maimani, you are a true inspiration to us all. May God protect her during her flights.

Leah Sablon, Abu Dhabi

Kudos to Captain Al Maimani. Slowly but surely, progress is being made in the Kingdom. Women can now drive to work, and even fly planes. The sky is the limit.

Dave Pryce, Dubai