The recently held forum for national dialogue was a welcome step. However, it is not enough simply to express appreciation for an initiative whose aim is to reconcile different views and trends.
What is needed is for the initiative to be broadened further to avoid turning it into a movement of the elite, who meet to exchange pleasantries and compliments and then return to the comfort of their homes.
Deeply complex — and possibly divisive — issues cannot be resolved in a few days. Certainly, the initiative is an important step, but it is late in coming. We should have begun discussing our intellectual, sectarian and regional problems 40 years ago or even earlier.
It is rather sad to see our efforts being dissipated in many directions instead of focusing on such pressing challenges as the economy, unemployment and others. It will be very dangerous if those involved in the dialogue think the goal is simply to make others relinquish their convictions.
The intellectuals, regardless of their background or which trend they follow, should realize that it is their responsibility to prepare people for change so that they will be able to cope with new realities. This is very important for coming generations who must realize the importance of accommodating certain other opinions and the need to live with them.
The media, which for more than 30 years remained on the sidelines while its role was thwarted by an outdated mentality, should also realize what its responsibilities are.
Our universities, too, saw their programs choking under a heavy bureaucracy that turned them into groceries that closed their doors at sunset. The real role of the university — any university — is the opposite of closing the windows of academic freedom. One feels bitterness and anger each time one comes upon professors who insist on rejecting open discussion and who, instead of engaging in an open exchange of views, summon their students privately and tell them that if there is to be a discussion, it must take place in their office.
Our universities need urgent reform, and this should be done by ensuring freedom of expression and opening these institutions to the public. Instead of muzzling voices, time will prove that candid and genuine dialogue will serve as a powerful catalyst to cement national unity.
Future challenges, especially economic ones, cannot be solved by academic dialogue held secretly for a few days by an elite group. The challenges require serious programs to prepare society to deal with challenges on all fronts.
- Arab News From the Local Press 10 July 2003
