Riz Khan – on camera: (PRELUDE TO DOCUMENTARY)
“In February 1991, the small Gulf state of Kuwait was liberated from invading Iraqi forces, seven months after they had crossed the border. A multi-national alliance quickly drove out Saddam Hussein’s troops – but eleven years on, the Iraqi leaders hold on power remains unchallenged. Now with the global effort against terrorism, some are calling for more decisive action against Saddam Hussein… bringing Kuwait back into the spotlight. But, where does this leave Kuwaitis in terms of safety, security, and economic prospects.
We’ll take a look next, as we examine Kuwait’s maturing democracy.”
A-BLOCK
Where the desert meets the sea.
By all accounts, Kuwait shouldn’t exist. It’s located in one of the most demanding environments on earth. Desert heat… no fresh water… no green pastures… and no visible resources to offer.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“I say “visible”, because everyone knows, Kuwait has oil. But think back about three-and-a-half centuries, to when a small group of nomads, fleeing a drought ravaging central Arabia, ended up at the coast here. There was no oil then.
What made them stay ? And what has happened since then to shape one of the most unique nations on earth ? More importantly, where is Kuwait heading today, in a climate of lingering uncertainty for the Arab world ?
We’ll find out, as we unravel the story of Kuwait - A Changing Nation.”
September 11th 2001.
In a heartbeat, the world changed.
Global security came tumbling down.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“ You could see, on the day that it happened, the way in which people walked around, scarcely believing the horror of what happened.”
With that horror came a change in the way people around the world – especially in the west – viewed Muslims, and particularly the Arab region. In Kuwait, memories of Iraq’s aggression 11 years earlier were still fresh in many minds - along with the concern that September 11th would shape public opinion of Muslims negatively.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“From the first minute we all here knew and described what happened as a very evil terrorist act which has nothing to do with any religion what-so-ever - not only Islam.”
Ahmed Baqir; Kuwait’s Justice Minister:
“ All Muslims, I think all real Muslims are against this terror. And we have... we feel sympathetic towards the United States.”
The attacks also launched a U-S led effort to eradicate global terrorism – starting in Afghanistan with Osama Bin Laden’s Al-Qaeda group and its supporters, the Taliban.
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist (Arabic translated):
“Even if the Americans get rid of Osama Bin Laden today, there are thousands eagerly waiting to take his place.”
The “War Against Terror” as the U-S labelled it, has put the spotlight on Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq - and it’s nervous neighbour, Kuwait – which had been a victim of terrorism. The small Gulf state suddenly had a renewed relevance for the region’s security.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I think there is legitimate reason to worry about what is happening inside Iraq and what conceivably could happen. Now, since the end of the war, the Iraqi regime – Saddam Hussein – has broken every promise they gave. They haven’t… they haven’t dismantled their weapons manufacturing capability, they’ve obstructed inspections, they’ve inhibited inspections and actually stopped inspections.” “And so the concern that arises, is what exactly is being manufactured there, and what exactly might subsequently be done with it.”
The events of 9-11 have made the west question how Iraq might react – and possibly get involved. In Kuwait, it has reawakened fears of vulnerability.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwati Businessman:
“Some of our oil installations were bombed, some of our oil tankers were attacked. So, we've suffered ourselves and we know what terrorism means”.
Most dramatically, it’s the events of August 2nd 1990 that Kuwaitis find hard to forget, as Iraqi forces poured over the border. For the next seven months under Saddam Hussein’s occupation, Kuwait transformed both mentally and physically.
The House of Martyrs is one of the few memorials to the invasion, left standing. The destruction here came on the eve of Kuwait’s liberation, as 19 members of Al-Massilah, a resistance group, took on overwhelming Iraqi forces. Miraculously, 7 survived - some of them hiding in the rubble.
The house and surroundings have been preserved as a symbol of Kuwait’s resilience.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“No matter how much time passes, the scars of the Iraqi invasion continue to haunt Kuwaitis. They are determined not to forget those who gave their lives during the struggle, and those who are still missing – especially the prisoners of war - or PoWs… which number more than 600”.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait:
“In some sense, the war has not ended… uh, perhaps there’s a cessation of military hostilities , but in some sense the struggle continues. I mean, for example, it continues for the Kuwaiti families who have not gotten a proper accounting for those people who disappeared, or who were taken prisoner during the Iraqi occupation.”
This will always remain unfinished business, and cast a shadow over the celebration of freedom in February 1991.
It’s a quiet scene that these rocks now preside over. Sand has blown over much of the military stain that trailed for miles 11 years ago, as the Iraqi forces headed back to their border - driven to retreat by western allied forces led by the United States.
Today, their military hardware and debris lies in a rusty graveyard surrounded by the unforgiving desert.
A road that once carried much tourism and commerce between Kuwait and Iraq, now lies like a tarmac tombstone between the neighbours.
Time has proved to be a slow healer.
Riz Khan – on camera”
“As they were being driven out, the Iraqi forces did as much damage as possible – managing to take out 80% of Kuwait’s well heads. 10 of the 26 gathering centres were totally destroyed - like the blackened shell behind me here at the Al-Ahmadi oilfield. By the time the invaders were gone in February of 1991, more than 700 oil wells had been blown up.”
The raging infernos that lit up the skyline proved to be one of the biggest challenges facing the small, oil-dependent state. Getting these under control required the world’s top oil firefighters. They managed to extinguish the flames within only 8 months.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“ Iraq’s destruction of Kuwait’s oil operation went beyond the billions of dollars in lost revenue. Environmental harm was widespread, with oil lakes like this, polluting the countryside and the Gulf waters. It wasn’t until October of 1994 that Kuwait managed to recover 97% of the oil lakes, but Iraq’s legacy remains even today.”
At the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research - known as KISR -the massive environmental harm following the invasion is still being assessed. Testing continues to check the recovery of the soil and plant life from the deadly airborne pollution that the oil fires created.
The latest satellite technology traces the progress of the thick oil lakes – mapping the continued risk to desert and marine ecology… and people, due to airborne oil pollution.
Abdul Nabi Al-Ghadban, Environmental Research Scientist:
“11 years after the crisis, we are facing a lot of problem combating that oil.”
The future environmental cost of the invasion and oil fires may have yet to reveal itself, but for now, Kuwait has fought hard to rebuild the infrastructure that snakes its way through the desert carrying the black gold that brought this small nation its modern day wealth.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“These quiet desert sands hide the oil bubbling below… and in the same way, Kuwaiti society has some serious social issues brewing beneath its calm exterior. A look at some of those issues when we return.”
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B-BLOCK – “HISTORY AND DEMOCRACY”
A huge public celebration commemorates the Amir’s return to Kuwait in January 2002.
2001 had been a difficult year for the ruling family, as the head of state extended his stay in a London hospital. His arrival from the U-K was marked with relief for those wondering how the balance of power in this oil-rich Gulf nation might shift.
Power is a political balancing act in Kuwait.
The umbrella of democracy, and a strict constitution implemented in 1961, cover all of those in power – that’s to say, the ruling family, a handful of wealthy merchant families, and a growing number of independent power-brokers. But there’s still a long way to go, according to those who want something closer to a western-style democracy.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“ I think we are still developing socially. We have still a tribal structure, we have also religious factions, so it's not a party system which is predominant. It's mostly these social relationships: tribe, family, social, religious factions, which- of course- is not what you would like to have in a full democracy, based on issues, on ideas, on programs- we haven't reached fully that.”
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“I think the movement towards pluralism and freedom in Kuwait is very, very good and very healthy. Is it Utopia ? No. Do they still have a ways to go under our standards ? Of course they do. But we have to understand that this is a culture that is… an old culture that’s… that’s different from the culture here in the United States. But given that fact, they’ve made some pretty darn good progress.”
Tradition guides Kuwait’s political ideology in the form of diwaniyas - or open houses – which also maintain the bastion of male rule. Although the gatherings appear largely informal, they are the source of much backdoor policy-making.
More than three centuries ago, as Kuwait become a thriving trade centre, diwaniyas served as regular gatherings for merchants to do business and discuss strategies in an informal manner. Diwaniyas also served to bring members of the ruling family together regularly, keeping the bonds between them stronger.
Nowadays, diwaniyas also act as political clubs, where like minded-individuals can find support for one another’s ideas.
Young people are encouraged to keep up this tradition of gathering… and diwaniyas are also a place where east and west can meet technologically, if not always ideologically.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“We still don’t have political parties. We still don’t have the institutions. I think the consensus among the people of Kuwait is democratic. But, with lots of different, probably some cases, diverted ways of understanding democracies- that is what we, in what we call the liberal movement, try to understand democracy in its real sense.”
Successful businessmen like Al-Mutawa find themselves frustrated at the interpretation of democracy in Kuwait. Parliamentary representation is mostly by independent candidates, some of whom band together for common interests.
As mentioned, political parties don’t exist – only political movements and coalitions including independents.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait:
“Kuwait is a democratic country, and they believe very strongly in their right to freedom of speech, and they exercise it well… uh – and often without hesitation.”
This often leads to a lot of debate, and a lot of different opinions blocking true progress, in a nation that total 2-point-2 million. As it is, the voter base in Kuwait is very low – around 15-percent out of 800,000 Kuwaiti citizens. This is because the voting age is 21, and those in the military are not allowed to vote. It’s important to note that women are also excluded.
That’s not to say they don’t know how to vote. At Kuwait University, the female students seem to play the most active role when it comes to college politics… and they seem to have many of the young men on their side.
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“I support a women’s right to vote and her right to be a member of parliament.”
But there’s a little uncertainty among the women themselves when it comes to whether on not women should run for Parliament.
Kuwait University Student (female – Arabic translated):
“Women should vote, but they should not be candidates.”
Kuwait University Student (female – Arabic translated):
“The best thing is if this comes in step-by-step – that’s to say, one step at a time.”
Many pragmatic women realise there are deep cultural issues involved here.
Dr Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Of course, this is not a dilemma for Kuwaiti women only, it’s a dilemma for most of the Arab women only all over the world, and also in most of the underdeveloped countries.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Critics might argue that without the women’s vote, Kuwait can never be a true democracy… but for some reason, passing that into law has proved to be a challenge for reformers in Parliament. Interestingly enough, many women themselves are reluctant to support it… others are becoming increasingly frustrated.”
Shaikha Al-Nusif, President, Women’s Rights Activist (Arabic translated):
“The obstacles we face are to do with tradition, not religion… because many Islamic nations and Arab countries observe political rights for women, and women have reached senior posts – even becoming Prime Minister. So, in Kuwait, we can’t have our own interpretation of Islam which restricts women’s rights.”
The traditional desert nomads known as Bedouins are arguably the most wary faction.
Um Turki, Bedouin craftswoman (Arabic translated):
“Women voting… this is not for the Arabs. Or women being in the cabinet, also not for us. At the end of the day, it’s in the government’s hands. I do not make the decisions.”
Ahmed Baqir, Kuwait’s Justice Minister:
“I always consider in Kuwait, that the vote is a family vote, not a man vote and a woman vote. For example, me and my - for example – I vote for my family and even the children.”’
Ironically, Islam is very firm about giving a woman her rights. For example, she is entitled to keep her finances independent from her husband’s.
Kuwait is also considered quite liberal, so the Parliamentary stance on the women’s vote seemed a little out of place.
Shaikha Al-Nusif, President, Women’s Rights Activist (Arabic translated):
“We accept the result because we accept democracy, but we hope that things will change, because we were really disappointed by there being only three votes against us, and by those whom we didn’t expect to vote against women’s rights.”
But there’s a view among parts of Kuwaiti society that fundamental Islam is growing stronger, and that liberally-minded members of Parliament face something of a challenge from the fundamentalists.
Metib Al-Walid. Islamic Activist (Arabic translated):
“This is a game played by the government to cover up sensitive issues. So they like to keep the masses busy with issues like women’s rights, which is a pure western idea, which has no roots in our religion or culture.
Tradition and culture in the Islamic world is very strong. The ever-present chessboard scene of black and white robes confirms that. But even the those who cling to their cultural upbringing, also quietly hope for change.
Dr Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Despite all the disappointments and all the attempts to amend such laws which are discriminating against women, still we believe in that the future will bring good things for women, and will bring equality and justice to women.”
In the meantime, it’s still something of a man’s world in Kuwait, where debate is a national pastime in all corners of society – in all sorts of places.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“How secure is democracy ? Of course, there were some differences, domestically, with the ruling family, but I think after 1990, probably we have overcome that.”
Riz Question: “You don’t ever see that being overturned - it being changed ?”
“We don’t think so… and we hope not.”
Up next… the influence of the media – and freedom of expression in Kuwait.
Don’t go away.
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C-BLOCK – FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
Riz Khan – on camera:
Information is power.
Even the most questioning and well read person can be influenced by the media… which is why it’s under such heavy governmental control in so many parts of the world. Those who guide the flow of information have a big say in shaping society and controlling the bigger picture.”
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“Of course, the media is influencing us 100%.”
Kuwait University Student (female - English):
“From the internet we knew how to fight and ask for our rights”.
Kuwait University Student (male - English):
“There’s still a lot of people here who don’t use the internet on a regular daily basis, but in a lot of ways it’s advancing, you know, knowledge, and common knowledge throughout society.”
As these students suggest, like elsewhere in the world, the internet is helping the free flow of information here… but so far, in Kuwait, it’s in its early years in both ease of availability and uptake. Arabic language on the net is still limited, and access to high-speed connections is only gradually occurring.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“The usage of the internet is still limited here. A lot of people uses the internet - but they still go for the newspapers”.
Perhaps what is changing the political and social face of Kuwait is the impact that freedom of expression is having - especially through Kuwait’s own media.
As daylight reluctantly gives way, the printing presses chug into action.
Newspapers are independent in Kuwait and lively in their coverage of events - with only a few boundaries.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“Frankly, compared to the Gulf & the Middle East, I would say we have a good amount of freedom- I cannot compare to the West. But the freedom of press, in particular, is much closer to what the West has than the Middle East. I would even say that Kuwait, as a democratic country today, the freedom of press is the thing most noticed here. I feel the press has more freedom - even more than the Parliament.
“Let’s be frank here, we have, what we call “ceilings” or “redlines” which we cannot cross- by law… things like religion - you cannot go deep into saying things wrong about religion, the Emir- the head of state only. Other than that, we have full freedom to express our views- that’s the law.”
Shaikh Ahmad Fadh Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Information Minister:
“The problem here, like everywhere, nobody trusts the government media. They are trusting the private media”
“Now, we have first to take the trust of the people back. We have to show that we are really serious to give freedom for our information, and to show them that we are continuing with the latest technology. I think this is our first step.”
But human nature is human nature everywhere - and tabloid stuff sells.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“It sells well. I also noticed that when it comes to gossip/sex/private life, you expect that lower or less educated people - lower grade people gets more interested in such stories. From my experience, from the last 6 years, its the intellectuals- it’s the politicians- its the big shots in the country who will call you, quietly - “Who is this? Who is that? Give me the details...” and stuff like that. They enjoy it.”
Television is another matter altogether. Kuwait TV is entirely run by the government - falling under the control of the Ministry of Information. To a western viewer, much of the content would seem inadequate - especially as far as news is concerned. This certainly limits its appeal to Kuwaitis, who are generally well-travelled and highly educated, despite their historic roots and traditions.
Satellite TV is widespread - even in the most unexpected places… and the government is aware it brings in what it considers both good and bad content.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Well, nowadays, any government wanting to control their media and the flow of information, is facing a losing battle. Prior to the Iraqi invasion in 1990, Kuwait had just a couple of television channels. Now, using the remote, I can get dozens - many of them in Arabic, produced by countries in the region.”
Shaikh Ahmad Fadh Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Information Minister:
“I think we don’t have to control anything. We have to give the both opinion - we have to give the both side of each information. But sometime, if its of national interest, or the unity of the society- we have to ask, not to control”.
This suggestion of “responsible” journalism is certainly one that will have to take hold if the Information Minister’s ambitious plans come to light. He aims to launch an international Arabic language channel from Kuwait.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Any internationally-focussed channel broadcasting from Kuwait will certainly face challenges. For example, how would regional politics be handled… or Islamic issues – how much of a priority are they ? In fact, just how important is religion to Kuwaitis – particularly the young generation – which seems to be more interested in western t-v ? Stay with us and find out.”
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D-BLOCK – THE CRESCENT AND THE CROSS
A daily ritual in a Muslim nation.
Those who can make it in time, try to pray over here, in Kuwait’s imposing Grand Mosque at least once during the five daily prayers.
The Friday noon prayer - the busiest of the week - often draws up to 4,000 worshippers. Following the September 11th attacks on the U-S, the authorities in Kuwait were careful to make sure that prayer gatherings – large and small - were not an chance for extremists to spout hatred in the guise of religious doctrine, or for opportunists to create divisions within society.
Ahmed Baqir, Kuwait’s Minister of Justice:
“The danger will come when, for political reasons, some political parties will say the all traditional Muslims (are) like Osama Bin Laden”.
But optimists believe that some good may come out of a desire to know more about Islam since the attacks.
Dr Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“I think there's a very big misunderstanding in the Western world toward Islam.
And we believe that- that kind of crime will make people start to read about Islam to understand Islam very well. But, what happened is not Islam.”
This hope for better understanding is echoed in the west.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“What has happened is that the perversion of Islam that is represented by people like Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban, and other groups – the perversion of Islam, I think, curiously has been seen to be a perversion because of the massive publicity that followed September 11th. So, out of that evil, perhaps greater understanding might come. I would certainly how that would be the case.”
But that doesn’t appease the more conservative Muslims,
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist
“Anything that comes from the west has to be checked according to the Koran and the Suna… and what’s compatible - that we will take – otherwise it is rejected, whether the West likes it or not”.
Even beyond the more recent global debate on Islam, and religious values, Kuwait - like many Muslim countries - has a younger population questioning more traditional approaches to Islam, both socially and politically.
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“I think the Islamic movement is misrepresenting Islam as a religion. It’s interpreting Islam for its own gain, unfortunately.”
Just a couple of the views from students at Kuwait University.
Many of these young people travel abroad extensively, bringing back the experience of more liberal societies. Plus their daily routine is peppered with symbols of a western lifestyle. This might help to explain some of the caution they expressed about life under stricter Islamic rules. But is that caution enough to make them drift away from their religion and traditions ? Not everyone thinks so.
Ahmad Baqir, Min. of Justice.
“People of Kuwait are open, they travel everywhere, they mix with other cultures. So, some people are maybe affected, but I think myself that, this in a certain age, but after a while, most of them return back to their Islamic traditions.”
In some cases, the law intervenes. In 1995, Kuwait’s Parliament passed a law segregating sexes in schools and universities – which many people saw as a mistake.
Shaikha Al-Nusif, Women’s Rights Leader (Arabic – translated):
(Riz question): “What kind of harm will that do to the future generations of Kuwait… the fact that male and female can’t study together – can’t interact in the educational sense ?”
This type of pressure is applied by the traditional extremists, and it’s not realistic.”
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“If you separate it, you need more teacher, you need more money, you need more space, you need everything. And that would probably put more burden of the quality of education… and instead of improving it, you’re – you’re… I think this is wrong.”
Kuwait University Student (male – English):
(Riz question): “What’s your view on the law that separates men and women in education?”
“Well, I am against that. I prefer that men and women (are) together”.
Kuwait University Student (female – English):
“There are men everywhere. They can’t separate us on the streets or, you know, anywhere you go out, like shopping malls or so… so I find it really wrong to have it separated at college.”
Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Learning in university does not only mean learning through books, but also learning the way of life. Part of the way of life is how to deal with the other sex - the student of the male and the female.”
But, even some of those in the Islamic movement accept that in this small Muslim state, harmony IS possible between religion and lifestyle
Ismail Al-Shatti – Islamic Movement Leader:
“Kuwaiti society is a modern society and even also a conservative society. That mean Kuwaiti people still believe in Islamic values, but in very modern way.”
But it’s important to remember that not all Arabs - and not all Kuwaitis - are Muslims.
Rev. Amanual Ghareeb, Evangelical Christian:
“When I go outside, they think that I am a Muslim and they are surprised when they know that I am Christian and a Kuwaiti... I mean I am Arab and a Kuwaiti. So, it is… it goes then I try to explain to them about Christianity in Kuwait and in the Arab world.”
So where does this put the relationship between Muslims in Kuwait, and Christians here - who number around a-quarter of a million.
Rev. Amanual Ghareeb, Evangelical Christian:
“ Actually, we are born in this country, so.. and our relations with the different parts of the society is very good. So, in Christmas and in Easter they come and are calling to us, and the same we do when they have Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr.. So, we have good relations and we are considered part of this society.”
Another point…in the Middle East, not all Christians are Arabs.
The growing number of South Asian workers coming to Kuwait in the past decade has boosted the numbers of Christians here - particularly Catholics. Mass is oversubscribed - in every language – from English to various Indian tongues such as Conkani.
The large social gathering after mass is important for these Indians, who - despite their concerns for their economic future in Kuwait – appreciate the freedom to worship.
Indian ex-pat worker (male – English):
“Being Catholic… is no problem”.
Indian ex-pat worker (male – Hindi translated):
“There is no issue… Catholics… Muslims. All are okay. They’re not thought as separate.”
Indian ex-pat worker (male – English):
It’s a free country, like. Everyone is free to do anything,means as far as the rules and regulations are concerned”.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe all the all religions should have the right to worship, to believe. This is our constitution”
Despite the freedoms that all religions have in Kuwait, there is one rule… any effort to convert Muslims away from Islam is forbidden.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Still religious concerns don’t compare with political concerns in the case of Kuwait. When the invaders crossed the border from Iraq in 1990, it was mostly Muslim against Muslim anyway. What security issues linger… and what is Kuwait doing about them. That’s coming up next.”
E-BLOCK – STATE OF READINESS
The latest jets… and plenty of them.
For Kuwait, the price of security is a high one – but it could never be too high in the wake of the Iraqi invasion.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“Security, Security, Security. The security is a very important issue in the mind of government.”
Following September 11th, there’s also a fear of terrorist attacks from radicals within Kuwait. Roadblock checks have become more thorough. Recent years have also been spent making sure Kuwait’s armed forces are up to scratch… just in case trouble from across the border arises.
Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Deputy Premier, Minister of Defence:
“The Kuwaiti army now is totally different from what it was 11 years ago.”
Critics of the multinational force that drove Iraqi troops out of Kuwait in 1991 say the job was never completed… that perhaps the allies failed in their mission.
Allied leaders counter that removing Saddam Hussein from power was not the mission… it was specifically driving the Iraqis out of Kuwait.
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“Did we do the right thing in ’91 – you bet we did – and people who criticise that are off base. We did make two mistakes… one, not requiring him to come to Safwan and sign the surrender documents – it would have been better to do that… and secondly, letting him use his helicopters in the immediate aftermath of the war, which enabled him to reposition his forces, and put down uprisings by Kurds in the north, and Shiites in the south.”
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I don’t think that any of us expected Saddam Hussein to be there 11 years later- certainly the presumption at the end of the war was that he wouldn’t be.”
“The biggest mistake was that we didn’t force Saddam Hussein himself to sign the surrender documents. I think had we done so, we might have undermined him substantially & I think that was a trick that we missed.”
Since the September 11th attacks, President George W. Bush has put Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq back in the spotlight repeatedly.”
Cynics say the continued presence of Saddam Hussein has given western nations – in particular the United States – a reason to maintain a military foothold in the Gulf region.
Kuwait’s leaders see this from a positive perspective – one of support rather than intrusion by outsiders.
Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Deputy Premier, Minister of Defence:
“No doubt we have excellent relations with the West. It was like this before the invasion, and after the liberation this relationship has become stronger. Liberating Kuwait brought us closer to the West. They have very advanced political systems, and we are aiming to reach their standard.”
Apart from aspiring to a western political system, achieving western military standards has been a priority for Kuwait’s armed forces. A greater sense of security for the nation has come from more firepower and a state of readiness.
Lt.-Colonel Abdullah Al-Shamri, Kuwaiti Army:
“We have themain battle tank – the best tank in the world… we have the highest technology equipment…”
Lieutenant Khaled Al-Adwani, Kuwaiti Army:
“From 1990 until now, there is a lot of experience coming with many different armies”.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Security has become a key word in the Kuwaiti vocabulary, and years of improved recruitment and equipment for the military has not allowed anyone to relax here.
The border with Iraq, and the difficult desert terrain surrounding Kuwait fuel the constant need for vigil.”
First-Lieutenant Hamad Al-Sabri, Kuwaiti Army:
“I think it’s, uh, a little bit hard, but we try to protect our country as we can”.
As much as Kuwaiti patriotism grew after the invasion, and as much as people want to defend their nation, they’ve become closely knit – and perhaps dependent on the western forces based on Kuwaiti soil. And the U-S, for one, is not in any hurry to move out.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait.
“Well, there are a lot of reasons why the United States wants to become – or wants to be engaged in the region. Obviously, a good portion of our oil comes from the region – that’s strategic interest for the United States.”
The strategic value of Kuwait to Britain was a big factor in the U-K pushing hard for involvement in the region following the Iraqi invasion.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“If Saddam Hussein had held onto Kuwait, it wasn’t simply the rape of that country that offended the West – it wasn’t simply his control suddenly of Kuwaiti oil as well… it was the dangerous strategic position that then opened up. Saddam Hussein and the Iraqis would then go straight down the Gulf, and that, of course, would’ve changed the face of the whole of the Middle East.”
So western forces came into the region 11 years ago, and seem firmly entrenched – most visibly the USA.
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
That’s baloney ! We were already entrenched in the region. We are the guarantors of security for all of the Arab Gulf countries.”
And to what extent can Kuwait develop and flourish as a true democracy while it’s tied so closely to a powerful and influential western presence on its soil ?
How much does democracy have to stand aside to make way for security ?
Shaikh Jaber Hamid Mubarak Al-Sabah, Minister of Defence.
“We should not sacrifice democracy. Democracy is deeply rooted in Kuwaiti culture. We are trying to bring it up to date. I don’t think the status of democracy will ever reach the point where we will have to choose between democracy and security. Democracy is security.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Even if a good relationship with the allies is maintained, military security is no guarantee of economic security, and young Kuwaitis are finding that a modern western lifestyle with fancy shops and luxuries comes with a price. More on that in a moment.”
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F-BLOCK – TODAY AND TOMORROW
Kuwait is opening up.
It’s the dawn of a new attitude, as Kuwaitis want overseas brands and businesses to become established in their nation so that even if Kuwait’s small, it’s considered “international”.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe in the free market and we believe in globalisation also and free economy. We believe that economy in Kuwait should be liberated from the government, and we should be open to all the free market in this world.”
It’s already clear that western emblems sit side by side with eastern traditions in Kuwait – even in the older shopping areas.
Here, market affairs give way to religious affairs – and conservative values survive.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Although many people cling to the old traditional ways, others – particularly the young and well-off – look for a more western experiences, such as a modern, multilevel shopping mall, with all the latest stuff.”
Kuwaiti shopper (female – English):
“They look at people in other countries to know what’s in style. It’s really important to people here.”
In fact, it worries many traditionalists that the younger generation is a bit too ready to embrace all things western.”
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist:
“There is a change in Kuwait’s society, but for me it’s a negative change, it’s not positive. There are too many satellite channels bringing difference cultures, and Islamic people are influenced by these channels, and I don’t consider it a good change for Kuwait”.
Still, change is inevitable in a place where the population is a majority of outsiders.
Kuwaitis form less than 40-percent… and Asian workers and other Arab nationals are largely responsible for the changing face of the small Gulf State.
A Palestinian wedding – unlike a traditional Kuwaiti one – mixes men and women in a very western style. Despite the steps towards change, many want to keep the proud Kuwaiti culture.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe we can protect our society and we can continue the modernisation process.”
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I think it is changing, and the effect of globalisation, not just in Kuwait, but everywhere else, is beginning to make changes accelerate, and I think we are going to see that happening over the next few years.”
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“I hope that it’s a free and independent country twenty years from now. I do not believe that it will be the 19th province of Iraq. I think it will be a free and independent country – I certainly hope it will.”
It’s a carefree age that these youngsters are enjoying… but it’s a changing Kuwait in which they’re growing up – where employment skills will hold greater value, and cushy government jobs will be a thing of the past.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“The pyramid in Kuwait is upside down. 90 – over 93-94 – whatever figure you want – as close as that – of Kuwaiti people working with the government, and 93-94-percent of foreign labour working in the private sector.”
That’s being changed already, as Kuwaitis enter every sector of the workforce.
That leaves these ex-pat labourers at a crossroads. Their families at home in places like India and Bangladesh depend on the money they send back. But Kuwait’s economy is counting more on the Kuwaitis now.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, National Democratic Movement
“ I think Kuwaitis are not lazy when given an opportunity and the role to play. The proof, of course, is during the occupation time, the whole society of Kuwait turned to be a bee-cell and everybody was working. Kuwaitis were working as bakers, they were working as garbage collectors, they were working as carpenters, they were working as… they work every single thing.”
But money talks – and Kuwait still has it – for now.
Realising the limitations of wealth through oil, Kuwait has actively been pouring money into investments, and lessening its dependency on the black gold.
Close family ties among the people here keep traditions quite strong… but as the next generation climbs the ladder towards success, there are bound to be a few tumbles on the way.
Still, it’s hard to hold back the wheels of progress, and Kuwait is certainly looking to be on board, as the expectations of the younger generation come to life
RIZ STAND UP: T32: 39.01 – 39.29
“And that’s the enigma of Kuwait. A centuries-old nation made up of travellers and traders connecting the sea and the desert. The people here juggle their lives delicately between the alluring call of the rapidly modernising world… and the demanding voice of traditions and religion. In the same way that the waters of the Gulf have always guided them… the sands will always beckon them… reminding them that although they are Kuwaitis at heart… they are people of a changing nation.”
“In February 1991, the small Gulf state of Kuwait was liberated from invading Iraqi forces, seven months after they had crossed the border. A multi-national alliance quickly drove out Saddam Hussein’s troops – but eleven years on, the Iraqi leaders hold on power remains unchallenged. Now with the global effort against terrorism, some are calling for more decisive action against Saddam Hussein… bringing Kuwait back into the spotlight. But, where does this leave Kuwaitis in terms of safety, security, and economic prospects.
We’ll take a look next, as we examine Kuwait’s maturing democracy.”
A-BLOCK
Where the desert meets the sea.
By all accounts, Kuwait shouldn’t exist. It’s located in one of the most demanding environments on earth. Desert heat… no fresh water… no green pastures… and no visible resources to offer.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“I say “visible”, because everyone knows, Kuwait has oil. But think back about three-and-a-half centuries, to when a small group of nomads, fleeing a drought ravaging central Arabia, ended up at the coast here. There was no oil then.
What made them stay ? And what has happened since then to shape one of the most unique nations on earth ? More importantly, where is Kuwait heading today, in a climate of lingering uncertainty for the Arab world ?
We’ll find out, as we unravel the story of Kuwait - A Changing Nation.”
September 11th 2001.
In a heartbeat, the world changed.
Global security came tumbling down.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“ You could see, on the day that it happened, the way in which people walked around, scarcely believing the horror of what happened.”
With that horror came a change in the way people around the world – especially in the west – viewed Muslims, and particularly the Arab region. In Kuwait, memories of Iraq’s aggression 11 years earlier were still fresh in many minds - along with the concern that September 11th would shape public opinion of Muslims negatively.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“From the first minute we all here knew and described what happened as a very evil terrorist act which has nothing to do with any religion what-so-ever - not only Islam.”
Ahmed Baqir; Kuwait’s Justice Minister:
“ All Muslims, I think all real Muslims are against this terror. And we have... we feel sympathetic towards the United States.”
The attacks also launched a U-S led effort to eradicate global terrorism – starting in Afghanistan with Osama Bin Laden’s Al-Qaeda group and its supporters, the Taliban.
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist (Arabic translated):
“Even if the Americans get rid of Osama Bin Laden today, there are thousands eagerly waiting to take his place.”
The “War Against Terror” as the U-S labelled it, has put the spotlight on Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq - and it’s nervous neighbour, Kuwait – which had been a victim of terrorism. The small Gulf state suddenly had a renewed relevance for the region’s security.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I think there is legitimate reason to worry about what is happening inside Iraq and what conceivably could happen. Now, since the end of the war, the Iraqi regime – Saddam Hussein – has broken every promise they gave. They haven’t… they haven’t dismantled their weapons manufacturing capability, they’ve obstructed inspections, they’ve inhibited inspections and actually stopped inspections.” “And so the concern that arises, is what exactly is being manufactured there, and what exactly might subsequently be done with it.”
The events of 9-11 have made the west question how Iraq might react – and possibly get involved. In Kuwait, it has reawakened fears of vulnerability.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwati Businessman:
“Some of our oil installations were bombed, some of our oil tankers were attacked. So, we've suffered ourselves and we know what terrorism means”.
Most dramatically, it’s the events of August 2nd 1990 that Kuwaitis find hard to forget, as Iraqi forces poured over the border. For the next seven months under Saddam Hussein’s occupation, Kuwait transformed both mentally and physically.
The House of Martyrs is one of the few memorials to the invasion, left standing. The destruction here came on the eve of Kuwait’s liberation, as 19 members of Al-Massilah, a resistance group, took on overwhelming Iraqi forces. Miraculously, 7 survived - some of them hiding in the rubble.
The house and surroundings have been preserved as a symbol of Kuwait’s resilience.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“No matter how much time passes, the scars of the Iraqi invasion continue to haunt Kuwaitis. They are determined not to forget those who gave their lives during the struggle, and those who are still missing – especially the prisoners of war - or PoWs… which number more than 600”.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait:
“In some sense, the war has not ended… uh, perhaps there’s a cessation of military hostilities , but in some sense the struggle continues. I mean, for example, it continues for the Kuwaiti families who have not gotten a proper accounting for those people who disappeared, or who were taken prisoner during the Iraqi occupation.”
This will always remain unfinished business, and cast a shadow over the celebration of freedom in February 1991.
It’s a quiet scene that these rocks now preside over. Sand has blown over much of the military stain that trailed for miles 11 years ago, as the Iraqi forces headed back to their border - driven to retreat by western allied forces led by the United States.
Today, their military hardware and debris lies in a rusty graveyard surrounded by the unforgiving desert.
A road that once carried much tourism and commerce between Kuwait and Iraq, now lies like a tarmac tombstone between the neighbours.
Time has proved to be a slow healer.
Riz Khan – on camera”
“As they were being driven out, the Iraqi forces did as much damage as possible – managing to take out 80% of Kuwait’s well heads. 10 of the 26 gathering centres were totally destroyed - like the blackened shell behind me here at the Al-Ahmadi oilfield. By the time the invaders were gone in February of 1991, more than 700 oil wells had been blown up.”
The raging infernos that lit up the skyline proved to be one of the biggest challenges facing the small, oil-dependent state. Getting these under control required the world’s top oil firefighters. They managed to extinguish the flames within only 8 months.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“ Iraq’s destruction of Kuwait’s oil operation went beyond the billions of dollars in lost revenue. Environmental harm was widespread, with oil lakes like this, polluting the countryside and the Gulf waters. It wasn’t until October of 1994 that Kuwait managed to recover 97% of the oil lakes, but Iraq’s legacy remains even today.”
At the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research - known as KISR -the massive environmental harm following the invasion is still being assessed. Testing continues to check the recovery of the soil and plant life from the deadly airborne pollution that the oil fires created.
The latest satellite technology traces the progress of the thick oil lakes – mapping the continued risk to desert and marine ecology… and people, due to airborne oil pollution.
Abdul Nabi Al-Ghadban, Environmental Research Scientist:
“11 years after the crisis, we are facing a lot of problem combating that oil.”
The future environmental cost of the invasion and oil fires may have yet to reveal itself, but for now, Kuwait has fought hard to rebuild the infrastructure that snakes its way through the desert carrying the black gold that brought this small nation its modern day wealth.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“These quiet desert sands hide the oil bubbling below… and in the same way, Kuwaiti society has some serious social issues brewing beneath its calm exterior. A look at some of those issues when we return.”
=====BREAK=====
B-BLOCK – “HISTORY AND DEMOCRACY”
A huge public celebration commemorates the Amir’s return to Kuwait in January 2002.
2001 had been a difficult year for the ruling family, as the head of state extended his stay in a London hospital. His arrival from the U-K was marked with relief for those wondering how the balance of power in this oil-rich Gulf nation might shift.
Power is a political balancing act in Kuwait.
The umbrella of democracy, and a strict constitution implemented in 1961, cover all of those in power – that’s to say, the ruling family, a handful of wealthy merchant families, and a growing number of independent power-brokers. But there’s still a long way to go, according to those who want something closer to a western-style democracy.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“ I think we are still developing socially. We have still a tribal structure, we have also religious factions, so it's not a party system which is predominant. It's mostly these social relationships: tribe, family, social, religious factions, which- of course- is not what you would like to have in a full democracy, based on issues, on ideas, on programs- we haven't reached fully that.”
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“I think the movement towards pluralism and freedom in Kuwait is very, very good and very healthy. Is it Utopia ? No. Do they still have a ways to go under our standards ? Of course they do. But we have to understand that this is a culture that is… an old culture that’s… that’s different from the culture here in the United States. But given that fact, they’ve made some pretty darn good progress.”
Tradition guides Kuwait’s political ideology in the form of diwaniyas - or open houses – which also maintain the bastion of male rule. Although the gatherings appear largely informal, they are the source of much backdoor policy-making.
More than three centuries ago, as Kuwait become a thriving trade centre, diwaniyas served as regular gatherings for merchants to do business and discuss strategies in an informal manner. Diwaniyas also served to bring members of the ruling family together regularly, keeping the bonds between them stronger.
Nowadays, diwaniyas also act as political clubs, where like minded-individuals can find support for one another’s ideas.
Young people are encouraged to keep up this tradition of gathering… and diwaniyas are also a place where east and west can meet technologically, if not always ideologically.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“We still don’t have political parties. We still don’t have the institutions. I think the consensus among the people of Kuwait is democratic. But, with lots of different, probably some cases, diverted ways of understanding democracies- that is what we, in what we call the liberal movement, try to understand democracy in its real sense.”
Successful businessmen like Al-Mutawa find themselves frustrated at the interpretation of democracy in Kuwait. Parliamentary representation is mostly by independent candidates, some of whom band together for common interests.
As mentioned, political parties don’t exist – only political movements and coalitions including independents.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait:
“Kuwait is a democratic country, and they believe very strongly in their right to freedom of speech, and they exercise it well… uh – and often without hesitation.”
This often leads to a lot of debate, and a lot of different opinions blocking true progress, in a nation that total 2-point-2 million. As it is, the voter base in Kuwait is very low – around 15-percent out of 800,000 Kuwaiti citizens. This is because the voting age is 21, and those in the military are not allowed to vote. It’s important to note that women are also excluded.
That’s not to say they don’t know how to vote. At Kuwait University, the female students seem to play the most active role when it comes to college politics… and they seem to have many of the young men on their side.
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“I support a women’s right to vote and her right to be a member of parliament.”
But there’s a little uncertainty among the women themselves when it comes to whether on not women should run for Parliament.
Kuwait University Student (female – Arabic translated):
“Women should vote, but they should not be candidates.”
Kuwait University Student (female – Arabic translated):
“The best thing is if this comes in step-by-step – that’s to say, one step at a time.”
Many pragmatic women realise there are deep cultural issues involved here.
Dr Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Of course, this is not a dilemma for Kuwaiti women only, it’s a dilemma for most of the Arab women only all over the world, and also in most of the underdeveloped countries.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Critics might argue that without the women’s vote, Kuwait can never be a true democracy… but for some reason, passing that into law has proved to be a challenge for reformers in Parliament. Interestingly enough, many women themselves are reluctant to support it… others are becoming increasingly frustrated.”
Shaikha Al-Nusif, President, Women’s Rights Activist (Arabic translated):
“The obstacles we face are to do with tradition, not religion… because many Islamic nations and Arab countries observe political rights for women, and women have reached senior posts – even becoming Prime Minister. So, in Kuwait, we can’t have our own interpretation of Islam which restricts women’s rights.”
The traditional desert nomads known as Bedouins are arguably the most wary faction.
Um Turki, Bedouin craftswoman (Arabic translated):
“Women voting… this is not for the Arabs. Or women being in the cabinet, also not for us. At the end of the day, it’s in the government’s hands. I do not make the decisions.”
Ahmed Baqir, Kuwait’s Justice Minister:
“I always consider in Kuwait, that the vote is a family vote, not a man vote and a woman vote. For example, me and my - for example – I vote for my family and even the children.”’
Ironically, Islam is very firm about giving a woman her rights. For example, she is entitled to keep her finances independent from her husband’s.
Kuwait is also considered quite liberal, so the Parliamentary stance on the women’s vote seemed a little out of place.
Shaikha Al-Nusif, President, Women’s Rights Activist (Arabic translated):
“We accept the result because we accept democracy, but we hope that things will change, because we were really disappointed by there being only three votes against us, and by those whom we didn’t expect to vote against women’s rights.”
But there’s a view among parts of Kuwaiti society that fundamental Islam is growing stronger, and that liberally-minded members of Parliament face something of a challenge from the fundamentalists.
Metib Al-Walid. Islamic Activist (Arabic translated):
“This is a game played by the government to cover up sensitive issues. So they like to keep the masses busy with issues like women’s rights, which is a pure western idea, which has no roots in our religion or culture.
Tradition and culture in the Islamic world is very strong. The ever-present chessboard scene of black and white robes confirms that. But even the those who cling to their cultural upbringing, also quietly hope for change.
Dr Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Despite all the disappointments and all the attempts to amend such laws which are discriminating against women, still we believe in that the future will bring good things for women, and will bring equality and justice to women.”
In the meantime, it’s still something of a man’s world in Kuwait, where debate is a national pastime in all corners of society – in all sorts of places.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“How secure is democracy ? Of course, there were some differences, domestically, with the ruling family, but I think after 1990, probably we have overcome that.”
Riz Question: “You don’t ever see that being overturned - it being changed ?”
“We don’t think so… and we hope not.”
Up next… the influence of the media – and freedom of expression in Kuwait.
Don’t go away.
=====BREAK====
C-BLOCK – FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
Riz Khan – on camera:
Information is power.
Even the most questioning and well read person can be influenced by the media… which is why it’s under such heavy governmental control in so many parts of the world. Those who guide the flow of information have a big say in shaping society and controlling the bigger picture.”
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“Of course, the media is influencing us 100%.”
Kuwait University Student (female - English):
“From the internet we knew how to fight and ask for our rights”.
Kuwait University Student (male - English):
“There’s still a lot of people here who don’t use the internet on a regular daily basis, but in a lot of ways it’s advancing, you know, knowledge, and common knowledge throughout society.”
As these students suggest, like elsewhere in the world, the internet is helping the free flow of information here… but so far, in Kuwait, it’s in its early years in both ease of availability and uptake. Arabic language on the net is still limited, and access to high-speed connections is only gradually occurring.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“The usage of the internet is still limited here. A lot of people uses the internet - but they still go for the newspapers”.
Perhaps what is changing the political and social face of Kuwait is the impact that freedom of expression is having - especially through Kuwait’s own media.
As daylight reluctantly gives way, the printing presses chug into action.
Newspapers are independent in Kuwait and lively in their coverage of events - with only a few boundaries.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“Frankly, compared to the Gulf & the Middle East, I would say we have a good amount of freedom- I cannot compare to the West. But the freedom of press, in particular, is much closer to what the West has than the Middle East. I would even say that Kuwait, as a democratic country today, the freedom of press is the thing most noticed here. I feel the press has more freedom - even more than the Parliament.
“Let’s be frank here, we have, what we call “ceilings” or “redlines” which we cannot cross- by law… things like religion - you cannot go deep into saying things wrong about religion, the Emir- the head of state only. Other than that, we have full freedom to express our views- that’s the law.”
Shaikh Ahmad Fadh Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Information Minister:
“The problem here, like everywhere, nobody trusts the government media. They are trusting the private media”
“Now, we have first to take the trust of the people back. We have to show that we are really serious to give freedom for our information, and to show them that we are continuing with the latest technology. I think this is our first step.”
But human nature is human nature everywhere - and tabloid stuff sells.
Jassim Boodai, Editor-in-Chief, Al Rai Al Aam Newspaper:
“It sells well. I also noticed that when it comes to gossip/sex/private life, you expect that lower or less educated people - lower grade people gets more interested in such stories. From my experience, from the last 6 years, its the intellectuals- it’s the politicians- its the big shots in the country who will call you, quietly - “Who is this? Who is that? Give me the details...” and stuff like that. They enjoy it.”
Television is another matter altogether. Kuwait TV is entirely run by the government - falling under the control of the Ministry of Information. To a western viewer, much of the content would seem inadequate - especially as far as news is concerned. This certainly limits its appeal to Kuwaitis, who are generally well-travelled and highly educated, despite their historic roots and traditions.
Satellite TV is widespread - even in the most unexpected places… and the government is aware it brings in what it considers both good and bad content.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Well, nowadays, any government wanting to control their media and the flow of information, is facing a losing battle. Prior to the Iraqi invasion in 1990, Kuwait had just a couple of television channels. Now, using the remote, I can get dozens - many of them in Arabic, produced by countries in the region.”
Shaikh Ahmad Fadh Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Information Minister:
“I think we don’t have to control anything. We have to give the both opinion - we have to give the both side of each information. But sometime, if its of national interest, or the unity of the society- we have to ask, not to control”.
This suggestion of “responsible” journalism is certainly one that will have to take hold if the Information Minister’s ambitious plans come to light. He aims to launch an international Arabic language channel from Kuwait.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Any internationally-focussed channel broadcasting from Kuwait will certainly face challenges. For example, how would regional politics be handled… or Islamic issues – how much of a priority are they ? In fact, just how important is religion to Kuwaitis – particularly the young generation – which seems to be more interested in western t-v ? Stay with us and find out.”
====BREAK====
D-BLOCK – THE CRESCENT AND THE CROSS
A daily ritual in a Muslim nation.
Those who can make it in time, try to pray over here, in Kuwait’s imposing Grand Mosque at least once during the five daily prayers.
The Friday noon prayer - the busiest of the week - often draws up to 4,000 worshippers. Following the September 11th attacks on the U-S, the authorities in Kuwait were careful to make sure that prayer gatherings – large and small - were not an chance for extremists to spout hatred in the guise of religious doctrine, or for opportunists to create divisions within society.
Ahmed Baqir, Kuwait’s Minister of Justice:
“The danger will come when, for political reasons, some political parties will say the all traditional Muslims (are) like Osama Bin Laden”.
But optimists believe that some good may come out of a desire to know more about Islam since the attacks.
Dr Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“I think there's a very big misunderstanding in the Western world toward Islam.
And we believe that- that kind of crime will make people start to read about Islam to understand Islam very well. But, what happened is not Islam.”
This hope for better understanding is echoed in the west.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“What has happened is that the perversion of Islam that is represented by people like Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban, and other groups – the perversion of Islam, I think, curiously has been seen to be a perversion because of the massive publicity that followed September 11th. So, out of that evil, perhaps greater understanding might come. I would certainly how that would be the case.”
But that doesn’t appease the more conservative Muslims,
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist
“Anything that comes from the west has to be checked according to the Koran and the Suna… and what’s compatible - that we will take – otherwise it is rejected, whether the West likes it or not”.
Even beyond the more recent global debate on Islam, and religious values, Kuwait - like many Muslim countries - has a younger population questioning more traditional approaches to Islam, both socially and politically.
Kuwait University Student (male – Arabic translated):
“I think the Islamic movement is misrepresenting Islam as a religion. It’s interpreting Islam for its own gain, unfortunately.”
Just a couple of the views from students at Kuwait University.
Many of these young people travel abroad extensively, bringing back the experience of more liberal societies. Plus their daily routine is peppered with symbols of a western lifestyle. This might help to explain some of the caution they expressed about life under stricter Islamic rules. But is that caution enough to make them drift away from their religion and traditions ? Not everyone thinks so.
Ahmad Baqir, Min. of Justice.
“People of Kuwait are open, they travel everywhere, they mix with other cultures. So, some people are maybe affected, but I think myself that, this in a certain age, but after a while, most of them return back to their Islamic traditions.”
In some cases, the law intervenes. In 1995, Kuwait’s Parliament passed a law segregating sexes in schools and universities – which many people saw as a mistake.
Shaikha Al-Nusif, Women’s Rights Leader (Arabic – translated):
(Riz question): “What kind of harm will that do to the future generations of Kuwait… the fact that male and female can’t study together – can’t interact in the educational sense ?”
This type of pressure is applied by the traditional extremists, and it’s not realistic.”
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“If you separate it, you need more teacher, you need more money, you need more space, you need everything. And that would probably put more burden of the quality of education… and instead of improving it, you’re – you’re… I think this is wrong.”
Kuwait University Student (male – English):
(Riz question): “What’s your view on the law that separates men and women in education?”
“Well, I am against that. I prefer that men and women (are) together”.
Kuwait University Student (female – English):
“There are men everywhere. They can’t separate us on the streets or, you know, anywhere you go out, like shopping malls or so… so I find it really wrong to have it separated at college.”
Masoumah Al-Mubarak, Women’s Rights Activist:
“Learning in university does not only mean learning through books, but also learning the way of life. Part of the way of life is how to deal with the other sex - the student of the male and the female.”
But, even some of those in the Islamic movement accept that in this small Muslim state, harmony IS possible between religion and lifestyle
Ismail Al-Shatti – Islamic Movement Leader:
“Kuwaiti society is a modern society and even also a conservative society. That mean Kuwaiti people still believe in Islamic values, but in very modern way.”
But it’s important to remember that not all Arabs - and not all Kuwaitis - are Muslims.
Rev. Amanual Ghareeb, Evangelical Christian:
“When I go outside, they think that I am a Muslim and they are surprised when they know that I am Christian and a Kuwaiti... I mean I am Arab and a Kuwaiti. So, it is… it goes then I try to explain to them about Christianity in Kuwait and in the Arab world.”
So where does this put the relationship between Muslims in Kuwait, and Christians here - who number around a-quarter of a million.
Rev. Amanual Ghareeb, Evangelical Christian:
“ Actually, we are born in this country, so.. and our relations with the different parts of the society is very good. So, in Christmas and in Easter they come and are calling to us, and the same we do when they have Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr.. So, we have good relations and we are considered part of this society.”
Another point…in the Middle East, not all Christians are Arabs.
The growing number of South Asian workers coming to Kuwait in the past decade has boosted the numbers of Christians here - particularly Catholics. Mass is oversubscribed - in every language – from English to various Indian tongues such as Conkani.
The large social gathering after mass is important for these Indians, who - despite their concerns for their economic future in Kuwait – appreciate the freedom to worship.
Indian ex-pat worker (male – English):
“Being Catholic… is no problem”.
Indian ex-pat worker (male – Hindi translated):
“There is no issue… Catholics… Muslims. All are okay. They’re not thought as separate.”
Indian ex-pat worker (male – English):
It’s a free country, like. Everyone is free to do anything,means as far as the rules and regulations are concerned”.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe all the all religions should have the right to worship, to believe. This is our constitution”
Despite the freedoms that all religions have in Kuwait, there is one rule… any effort to convert Muslims away from Islam is forbidden.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Still religious concerns don’t compare with political concerns in the case of Kuwait. When the invaders crossed the border from Iraq in 1990, it was mostly Muslim against Muslim anyway. What security issues linger… and what is Kuwait doing about them. That’s coming up next.”
E-BLOCK – STATE OF READINESS
The latest jets… and plenty of them.
For Kuwait, the price of security is a high one – but it could never be too high in the wake of the Iraqi invasion.
Abdullah Al-Nibari, Member of Parliament:
“Security, Security, Security. The security is a very important issue in the mind of government.”
Following September 11th, there’s also a fear of terrorist attacks from radicals within Kuwait. Roadblock checks have become more thorough. Recent years have also been spent making sure Kuwait’s armed forces are up to scratch… just in case trouble from across the border arises.
Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Deputy Premier, Minister of Defence:
“The Kuwaiti army now is totally different from what it was 11 years ago.”
Critics of the multinational force that drove Iraqi troops out of Kuwait in 1991 say the job was never completed… that perhaps the allies failed in their mission.
Allied leaders counter that removing Saddam Hussein from power was not the mission… it was specifically driving the Iraqis out of Kuwait.
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“Did we do the right thing in ’91 – you bet we did – and people who criticise that are off base. We did make two mistakes… one, not requiring him to come to Safwan and sign the surrender documents – it would have been better to do that… and secondly, letting him use his helicopters in the immediate aftermath of the war, which enabled him to reposition his forces, and put down uprisings by Kurds in the north, and Shiites in the south.”
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I don’t think that any of us expected Saddam Hussein to be there 11 years later- certainly the presumption at the end of the war was that he wouldn’t be.”
“The biggest mistake was that we didn’t force Saddam Hussein himself to sign the surrender documents. I think had we done so, we might have undermined him substantially & I think that was a trick that we missed.”
Since the September 11th attacks, President George W. Bush has put Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq back in the spotlight repeatedly.”
Cynics say the continued presence of Saddam Hussein has given western nations – in particular the United States – a reason to maintain a military foothold in the Gulf region.
Kuwait’s leaders see this from a positive perspective – one of support rather than intrusion by outsiders.
Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Deputy Premier, Minister of Defence:
“No doubt we have excellent relations with the West. It was like this before the invasion, and after the liberation this relationship has become stronger. Liberating Kuwait brought us closer to the West. They have very advanced political systems, and we are aiming to reach their standard.”
Apart from aspiring to a western political system, achieving western military standards has been a priority for Kuwait’s armed forces. A greater sense of security for the nation has come from more firepower and a state of readiness.
Lt.-Colonel Abdullah Al-Shamri, Kuwaiti Army:
“We have themain battle tank – the best tank in the world… we have the highest technology equipment…”
Lieutenant Khaled Al-Adwani, Kuwaiti Army:
“From 1990 until now, there is a lot of experience coming with many different armies”.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Security has become a key word in the Kuwaiti vocabulary, and years of improved recruitment and equipment for the military has not allowed anyone to relax here.
The border with Iraq, and the difficult desert terrain surrounding Kuwait fuel the constant need for vigil.”
First-Lieutenant Hamad Al-Sabri, Kuwaiti Army:
“I think it’s, uh, a little bit hard, but we try to protect our country as we can”.
As much as Kuwaiti patriotism grew after the invasion, and as much as people want to defend their nation, they’ve become closely knit – and perhaps dependent on the western forces based on Kuwaiti soil. And the U-S, for one, is not in any hurry to move out.
Richard Jones, U-S Ambassador to Kuwait.
“Well, there are a lot of reasons why the United States wants to become – or wants to be engaged in the region. Obviously, a good portion of our oil comes from the region – that’s strategic interest for the United States.”
The strategic value of Kuwait to Britain was a big factor in the U-K pushing hard for involvement in the region following the Iraqi invasion.
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“If Saddam Hussein had held onto Kuwait, it wasn’t simply the rape of that country that offended the West – it wasn’t simply his control suddenly of Kuwaiti oil as well… it was the dangerous strategic position that then opened up. Saddam Hussein and the Iraqis would then go straight down the Gulf, and that, of course, would’ve changed the face of the whole of the Middle East.”
So western forces came into the region 11 years ago, and seem firmly entrenched – most visibly the USA.
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
That’s baloney ! We were already entrenched in the region. We are the guarantors of security for all of the Arab Gulf countries.”
And to what extent can Kuwait develop and flourish as a true democracy while it’s tied so closely to a powerful and influential western presence on its soil ?
How much does democracy have to stand aside to make way for security ?
Shaikh Jaber Hamid Mubarak Al-Sabah, Minister of Defence.
“We should not sacrifice democracy. Democracy is deeply rooted in Kuwaiti culture. We are trying to bring it up to date. I don’t think the status of democracy will ever reach the point where we will have to choose between democracy and security. Democracy is security.”
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Even if a good relationship with the allies is maintained, military security is no guarantee of economic security, and young Kuwaitis are finding that a modern western lifestyle with fancy shops and luxuries comes with a price. More on that in a moment.”
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F-BLOCK – TODAY AND TOMORROW
Kuwait is opening up.
It’s the dawn of a new attitude, as Kuwaitis want overseas brands and businesses to become established in their nation so that even if Kuwait’s small, it’s considered “international”.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe in the free market and we believe in globalisation also and free economy. We believe that economy in Kuwait should be liberated from the government, and we should be open to all the free market in this world.”
It’s already clear that western emblems sit side by side with eastern traditions in Kuwait – even in the older shopping areas.
Here, market affairs give way to religious affairs – and conservative values survive.
Riz Khan – on camera:
“Although many people cling to the old traditional ways, others – particularly the young and well-off – look for a more western experiences, such as a modern, multilevel shopping mall, with all the latest stuff.”
Kuwaiti shopper (female – English):
“They look at people in other countries to know what’s in style. It’s really important to people here.”
In fact, it worries many traditionalists that the younger generation is a bit too ready to embrace all things western.”
Metib Al-Walid, Islamic Activist:
“There is a change in Kuwait’s society, but for me it’s a negative change, it’s not positive. There are too many satellite channels bringing difference cultures, and Islamic people are influenced by these channels, and I don’t consider it a good change for Kuwait”.
Still, change is inevitable in a place where the population is a majority of outsiders.
Kuwaitis form less than 40-percent… and Asian workers and other Arab nationals are largely responsible for the changing face of the small Gulf State.
A Palestinian wedding – unlike a traditional Kuwaiti one – mixes men and women in a very western style. Despite the steps towards change, many want to keep the proud Kuwaiti culture.
Ismail Al-Shatti, Islamic Movement Leader:
“We believe we can protect our society and we can continue the modernisation process.”
John Major, Former British Prime Minister:
“I think it is changing, and the effect of globalisation, not just in Kuwait, but everywhere else, is beginning to make changes accelerate, and I think we are going to see that happening over the next few years.”
James Baker, Former U-S Secretary of State:
“I hope that it’s a free and independent country twenty years from now. I do not believe that it will be the 19th province of Iraq. I think it will be a free and independent country – I certainly hope it will.”
It’s a carefree age that these youngsters are enjoying… but it’s a changing Kuwait in which they’re growing up – where employment skills will hold greater value, and cushy government jobs will be a thing of the past.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, Kuwaiti Businessman:
“The pyramid in Kuwait is upside down. 90 – over 93-94 – whatever figure you want – as close as that – of Kuwaiti people working with the government, and 93-94-percent of foreign labour working in the private sector.”
That’s being changed already, as Kuwaitis enter every sector of the workforce.
That leaves these ex-pat labourers at a crossroads. Their families at home in places like India and Bangladesh depend on the money they send back. But Kuwait’s economy is counting more on the Kuwaitis now.
Faisal Al-Mutawa, National Democratic Movement
“ I think Kuwaitis are not lazy when given an opportunity and the role to play. The proof, of course, is during the occupation time, the whole society of Kuwait turned to be a bee-cell and everybody was working. Kuwaitis were working as bakers, they were working as garbage collectors, they were working as carpenters, they were working as… they work every single thing.”
But money talks – and Kuwait still has it – for now.
Realising the limitations of wealth through oil, Kuwait has actively been pouring money into investments, and lessening its dependency on the black gold.
Close family ties among the people here keep traditions quite strong… but as the next generation climbs the ladder towards success, there are bound to be a few tumbles on the way.
Still, it’s hard to hold back the wheels of progress, and Kuwait is certainly looking to be on board, as the expectations of the younger generation come to life
RIZ STAND UP: T32: 39.01 – 39.29
“And that’s the enigma of Kuwait. A centuries-old nation made up of travellers and traders connecting the sea and the desert. The people here juggle their lives delicately between the alluring call of the rapidly modernising world… and the demanding voice of traditions and religion. In the same way that the waters of the Gulf have always guided them… the sands will always beckon them… reminding them that although they are Kuwaitis at heart… they are people of a changing nation.”