Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:
The Emirates Writers Union have a presence across the UAE and carry out several activities to promote literature and publications. Below is a list of the type of activities undertaken by the Union:
1- Spreading information and raising awareness: In its efforts to raise awareness, the Emirates Writers Union hosts forums such as the Emirates Forum for Gulf Innovation, and the Zayed Forum for Young Writers.
2- Engaging Public: It implements a variety of projects addressing topics such as female writers, young writers, translation and publication. Further, it has established specialized clubs on poetry, philosophical writing, critical writing, among others, that implement activities for writers.
3- Building literary abilities: in cooperation with the University of Sharjah, the Union launched the professional diploma in creative writing. In addition, the Union works to preserve and accelerate the transfer of knowledge by enabling open and regular dialogue among writers as well as ensuring exchange between prominent writers and the younger generation.
4- Publishing Literature: The Union supports the creative industries by publishing 10 books annually. It promotes the sale of its publications in the electronic market by entering partnerships with platforms that sell e-books (gables, Nile and Furat). Further, it participates in local and international book fairs including the most important exhibitions in Frankfurt and Moscow. On the side-lines of the exhibitions, it organizes book signing events and specialized seminars promoting Emirati writers.
5- Training opportunities: The Union has established specialized courses in cultural management, cultural policies, among others. Further, it provides training opportunities for writers in digital skills to keeps up with technological developments. Further, the Emirates Writers Union runs literature labs for youth.
6- Promoting diversity: The Writers Union hosts evening activities focused on shared human values, open to people from all backgrounds and beliefs. The Union encourages membership of people from diverse backgrounds to promote diversity and tolerance.
What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:
• Supporting and refining the skills of young writers.
• Increasing literary products in the country.
• Upgrading literary and creative products to compete in the global market.
• Discovering literary talent and nurturing their skills in cooperation with academic institutions.
• Promoting cultural exchange through partnerships with local and international cultural institutions.
• Publishing books and promoting them internationally and through various media and digital platforms.
• Spreading the value of tolerance and cultural coexistence.