ABU DHABI // The “Best Minister in the World” will be chosen at the World Government Summit 2016 in Dubai.
Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and chairman of the summit’s organising committee, said 10 ministers from around the world had been placed on a shortlist for final assessment.
“The aim of this award is to recognise innovation in global government work and highlight ministerial initiatives that have resulted in positive changes in their communities,” Mr Al Gergawi said.
“Our world today needs ministers to serve as role models of thought and action, which bring about progress and welfare and improve general societal well-being.”
He said honouring ministers also promoted best practices and would inspire other government leaders to implement their own successful projects.
“One of the criteria is for the project or initiative to be transferable – something that can be successfully replicated in other countries,” he said. UAE ministers have been excluded from the first award.
But it will be an annual fixture on the World Government Summit’s agenda and is being launched in collaboration with Thomson Reuters.
The award will recognise the work of a minister who has led or taken part in a successful government project they initiated with positive results for citizens.
Nominations came from more than 80 countries.
“The award is a unique initiative to choose an impactful personality who has succeeded in using his or her position to make a substantial difference to society, with a focus on fulfilling people’s needs and aspirations,” said Nadim Najjar, Mena managing director for Thomson Reuters.
The summit will open on Monday under the theme Shaping Future Governments.
Also on Monday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, is expected to announce major structural changes to the Government in preparation for the UAE’s next stage of development.
The announcement will be made through his Twitter account at 6.30pm on Sunday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid will spend an hour answering questions.
Sheikh Mohammed on Sunday inaugurated the Museum of the Future at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. The museum is allowing free entry to the public for a soft opening on Monday, Tuesday and on Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm.
Those interested in visiting must pre-register through its website, museumofthefuture.ae.
nalwasmi@thenational.ae