I write in reference to your article Emirati women doctors deliver vital aid to refugees in Jordan (January 19). Maintaining women's health is vital to a country's overall welfare. Global statistics show that the wellbeing of a nation is directly linked to the health of its mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters. Now is the time to create an environment combining scientific knowledge with cultural considerations and technology to provide women with the best possible opportunities to live healthy lives.
Malnutrition, an enormous problem in the developing world, increases one’s susceptibility to infections and is thus a major component of illness and death. Undernourishment is a major risk factor for the burden of disease in developing countries. By some estimates, malnutrition directly causes about 300,000 deaths per year and is responsible for more than half of all deaths in women, young girls and children. Poor nutrition in women and girls means they are more likely to suffer from infectious diseases. So, good food, filled with essential vitamins and minerals is a key component of empowering women and girls.
Without a doubt, healthy women are a bridge to building a developed nation, therefore they need more healthcare facilities and greater access to healthcare systems than men.
Dr Faisal Khan, Saudi Arabia
Only transparent dialogue can solve Syria’s crisis
I write in reference to your article Syria bill to sanction regime backers passes US House of Representatives (January 24). The pro-Assad nations can always circumnavigate the sanctions, as we have seen before. A better and more pragmatic option is needed. Transparent, free and fair dialogue will always be the best option.
Name withheld by request
Access for all will make Dubai the ideal destination
I refer to your article The wheels are in motion to make the UAE truly inclusive for all (January 23). This editorial
was an interesting read. The word “disabled” has rightly been eradicated in the UAE and replaced by the phrase “people of determination” in the main public places.
It is laudable that Shobhika Kalra, co-founder of Wings of Angelz, has made more than 1,000 places wheelchair accessible in Dubai. And the emirate’s dedication to giving full access to people of determination by 2020 is remarkable. Dubai is certainly the destination for all.
K Ragavan, Bengaluru
The US was built by migrants and is now a superpower
I refer to your article UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi: Return of Syrian refugees to their homeland must be voluntary (January 24). This is a very sane and balanced view, but will all those that benefitted from migration come forward in support? The US was built by refugees and now enjoys the status of a superpower. There are highly-educated and technically skilled people who can be of help to the countries where they settle.
Name withheld by request