Dubai Airport Free Zone

Introduction The purpose of this paper is three-fold. First, the paper seeks to establish when the Dubai Airport Free Zones was established, and the main objective behind the establishment of the Free Zones. Secondly, the paper will highlight the contribution of Dubai Airport Free Zone to UAE’s economy, and then outline some of the advantages of Dubai Airport Free Zones. Finally, it will provide a comprehensive discussion on how this project promotes business in the UAE.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Dubai Airport Free Zone specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Discussion According to World Trade Organization, the emergence of foreign investment, as well as globalization of trade in the last few decades has considerably exposed nations to competitive pressures present in the global economy. The worldwide trading rules that are stipulated by WTO provide economies with new opportunities, and precipitous challe nges, as well. For national economies to succeed in such a competitive environment they need to pursue trade integration. One of the foremost instruments used in trade integration is the establishment of Free Trade Zones. When peace prevails among nations development will be registered in terms of smooth trade among nations and the citizens of different countries are free to exercise their knowledge and skills towards nation building. In the year 1966, the government of Dubai adopted a strategic plan to aid in advancing economic growth. The government objective was to create an economy that is investment driven. In the plan, the government established Dubai Airport Free zone. In UAE, Dubai Airport Free Zone is the greatest free zone since it harbours more than 1500 companies from various sectors. The industries that have established subsidiaries in the zone include aviation, manufacturing, ornaments and cosmetics, information technology, logistics and freights. In order to attract n ew and potential investors in the zone, the government provided an attractive package for international investors. The incentives include tax havens, quick approval procedures, extended leases, abundant and inexpensive energy, full repatriation of profits and capital, no currency restrictions, and 100 percent foreign ownership. The zone is situated in a strategic area with state of the art facilities such as infrastructure. The Dubai Airport Free Zone borders Dubai International Airport making export of the products and import of raw materials to be utilized in the zone cost effective. Dubai Airport Free Zone was ranked the best in Middle East and second best in the world by FDI magazine. The modern facilities that are provided in the zone include office units, light industrial units, land sites, and other services.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Contribution to the UAEâ⠂¬â„¢s economy In the year 2010, Dubai Airport Free zone contributed significantly in the trade volume. The zone generated approximately AED52 billion to the total trade revenue of the government. In addition, the zone contributes 6 percent of total exports amounting to AED21.652 billion. In reference to imports, Dubai Airport Free Zone demanded 5.6 percent of the total imports representing AED30.64 billion. This indicates the commitment of the zone towards boosting local economy, and attracting foreign direct investment through creation of a business-enabling environment. The attraction of giant multinational companies in the country is a source of revenue to the government, and at the same time household income for Dubai residents. The strategy adopted by the government of Dubai act as a stimulus package that triggers growth momentum in different sectors of the economy. The momentum is evident both locally and regionally. Dubai Airport Free Zones (DAFZ) is an economic pillar that enhances economic performance through creation of employment, attraction of FDI (Foreign Direct Investment), and transfer of new technologies into the country. The different free zones in UAE contribute significantly to the nation’s non-oil exports and as such rank UAE as the third most significant re-export destination in the globe. The UAE Free Zones facilitates economic diversification through attraction of foreign investors that engage in different activities, and reduce the country’s dependence on oil, while employing nationals of the country. Furthermore, not only will Free Zones prove to be a momentum of diversification, but it will also change the face of economic doings in UAE. The creation of employment among nationals will lead to an increase in disposal income; hence facilitating effective aggregate demand. The purchasing power of the locals will be improved, and as such, the region will witness economic growth and prosperity. Moreover, Dubai Airport Free Z ones (DAFZ) promotes innovation and entrepreneurship through DEC that facilitates business incubation. Dubai Enterprise Centre facilitates initiation, development, and management of business; hence, the business ventures grow into strong and successful enterprises that significantly contribute to the national development of the region.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Dubai Airport Free Zone specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The initiative seeks to retain talent and expertise in UAE, and continue to accelerate a robust economy through innovation and entrepreneurship. Business incubation provided by DEC enhances business survival in the critical business lifecycle stage. Therefore, the growth of new and competitive businesses in UAE strengthens economic growth and development. Advantages of the Dubai Airport Free Zone (ADFZ) The proximity to the Airport has provided a pivotal role for handling cargo and transit of goods making it the most efficient and effective free zones. This facilitates cost effective business operations and execution. As a result, companies can export their products, and import raw materials with minimal cost; hence attaining economies of scale. The other advantage of DAFZ is that it is a tax-free zone. The companies established in the zones enjoy tax havens in relation to their imports and exports. The government also exempt taxes on personal income, and again, there is free transfer of profits and capital to home country. This is also coupled with an option to use any currency without legal restrictions. The other benefits accrued include; subsidized annual trade license fees, registration are at less competitive charges to investors in FZE. It gives foreign investors a reason to make it a business hub worth investing in, and making it a business destination. Furthermore, it minimizes the start-up cost for new investors; lowering the cost of doing business and attract ing potential foreign investors in the region. The zone is creating specifically for establishment of companies that will facilitate diversification in the economy. The companies will also employ the nationals of UAE; hence absorbing graduates and professionals of UAE. This will limit brain drain to other developed nations, and as such beneficial in terms of expertise and skills development. Companies established in Free Zones enjoy a competent customer service, as well as employing labour that they find suitable. Investors get assist from DAFZ in relation to visa processing for foreign employees and their families. There is also a wide range of services such as banking that are available to foreign investors. DAFZ promotes business in the UAE Businesses in Dubai have access to technology parks that facilitate transfer of new technologies and information handling. Information technology is the lifeblood for a competitive business entity. Technology, especially improvement in technol ogy helps the organization through ensuring the effective management processes and strategies. In addition, information technology helps in facilitating quick decision making in the organization.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The technological aspect in business is indispensable and necessary for the accomplishment of the specified objectives. The modern business environment necessitates that organization structures should respond to the ever-changing needs of the business environment. As a result, organization structures are classified as team-based, network, and specialized. These structures ensured that organizations respond to the customer demands of flexibility, speed, quality, and efficiency. With growing desire of businesses to undertake massive investment, in future the knowledge of the ingredients of a business environment that is conducive such as globalization can be learned and enhanced through information technology. The concept has not only benefited countries but also individual firms through quality service, a wide range of products and expertise brought about by competition. Each country will be fighting out for a share in the world market. The quality and uniqueness of its products matt ers for it to withstand in the market. With the changing customer and organizational needs, training of the workforce has become necessary in any organizational setting. Dubai knowledge village facilitate training which entails an increase in the wealth of knowledge and skills. Training will help the foreign companies to bridge the gap between job requirements and the present competence of the employee. In addition, it will augment the behaviour and performance of an employee. Training in organization aims at growing competence and skills within an organization in order that as far as possible its prospect needs for the labour force can be met internally. Dubai outsourcing zone ensures that businesses gain a chunk of benefits and performance from outsourcing, but as it is evident outsourcing has both positive and negative impacts. The business objective of improving efficiency in production as well as attaining competitiveness in the global market has been attained through outsourci ng. The mechanism for monitoring the strategy ensured that progress is geared towards the attainment of organizational goals and establishing whether the changes in the external environment will necessitate any change of strategy. Plans and actions should be modified to facilitate accommodation of the changes in the operating environment. Conclusion Dubai Airport Free Zones plays a pivotal role as a pillar for economic growth and development. The Free Zones contribute significantly in the regional development of UAE. The zone strives to accommodate the needs of both the investors and employees. The incorporation of information technology in the management of the activities of the business operations is crucial in ensuring effective management in the organization. The current business world lays the ground for the establishment of an organization that is dynamic and accommodative. The organizational structures adapted should be information technology responsive and applicable in a we ll-managed environment. In addition, other strategic policies include development planning and protection of rights of property. The government should be in the front line in championing planning and equitable distribution of its resources. Through planning, the government will be in a position of realizing economic growth and development. The presence of a straightforward policy regarding property rights will boost foreign investment in the country that adds to the capital accumulation of the nation. Capital accumulation is important to economic development. This report on Dubai Airport Free Zone was written and submitted by user Ryleigh R. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Cold War Essay Topics, Questions, and Ideas with BestEssay.education

Cold War Essay Topics, Questions, and Ideas with Cold War Essay The cold war was a long period of extreme political tensions between Russia and its Warsaw Pact Allies, and the United States and its Nato Allies. Historians disagree about the exact years of the Cold war, but most agree that it started shortly after the end of World War II and Ended around 1991. It is referred to as the Cold War because there were never any direct military conflicts between the United States and Russia. There were however, wars and other military actions that occurred during the cold war period that were a direct result of these political and military tensions. Because The Cold War went on for so long, and because so many events happened during this time period, there are literally hundreds of potential essay topics. However, this doesn’t mean that choosing a topic for your cold war essay is going to be easy. For example, do you want to focus on the events leading up to the cold war (causes of the cold war), events that occurred during the cold war, or the ev ents that happened after the cold war was over. In order to help you decide, we have compiled a list of potential essay ideas for you to use. Please feel free to use any of the following topics. Sample Cold War Essay Questions and Prompts What role did the Soviet Union Play in causing tensions between the USSR and the United States What role did the United States play in causing tensions between the United States and Russia How did the Cold War cause the Vietnam War? How did the Cold War cause the Korean War? Describe the lasting impact that Cold War on North Koreans How did the Cuban Revolution impact the development of the Cold War? Explain the Domino Theory What was the cultural impact of the reunification of Germany How did the Cold War impact pop culture in the 1980s What were the causes and effects of the Red Scare How did the Cold War impact the space race? Explain Containment Does Ronald Reagan receive too much credit for the end of the Cold War? Write an analysis of the Cold War and the arming of Middle East extremists today Who started the Cold War? Detail the influence of the Cold War on the nuclear arms race Were there any nations that were negatively impacted by the end of the cold war? These are only a small portion of the potential essay topics that one could explore when writing about The Cold War. However, we do believe that these are some excellent ideas that will serve most students very well. As always, has many writers on our staff who are experts in history and foreign policy. In the event that you need help with your essay, please feel free to contact us for help. We can get your Cold War essay finished quickly and you can review and download your essay online.

EPIC - DSS Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

EPIC - DSS - Research Paper Example The evaluation process will assist in determining the probability and effectiveness of EPIC-DSS. Apart from this, the evaluation process will also help to determine the benefits of implementing DSS in case of business decision making or structuring reports (Louw, 2002). The implementation of DSS has acted as solution to the management in order to increase the effectiveness of decision making process for better effectiveness and efficiency. It has secured the business operations as well as reduced the cost of business operation for the future endeavors. Moreover, it has advanced the business processes and improved an organizations competitive advantage by ensuring facilities in case of production, promotion, pricing, marketing and some logistical functions (Louw, 2002). On the contrary, it also helps to make decisions in case of nursing and clinical purpose. It helps in delegating responsibilities to the people so that the organisation is managed efficiently. The proposed research, aims to evaluate the benefits of EPIC-DSS after implementing DSS. The evaluation approach will review the quality of the decision making in case of various business activities. Apart from this, it will also determine the cost involvement in the EPIC-DSS process to increase the effectiveness of business. Moreover, it will help to identify the improvement of an organization in terms of competitive advantage. Through the evaluation approach it will be possible to identify the effectiveness of the DSS. Beside, this it will also help to determine the advancement of business processes due to the implementation of EPIC-DSS in the management (Louw, 2002). The results of evaluation will help to understand the benefits and threats of EPIC-DSS in case of business activities. Moreover, the result of evaluation will help to take precautions before using the EPIC-DSS in case business activities are

Online Alternative Dispute Resolution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6250 words

Online Alternative Dispute Resolution - Essay Example Dispute resolution is the process of resolving disputes between parties, and there are various methods of dispute resolution, which includes such things as: lawsuits (litigation), arbitration, mediation, conciliation, as well as many types of negotiation. Dispute resolution processes fall into two major types: adjudicative processes, such as litigation or arbitration, in which a judge, jury or arbitrator determines the outcome; and consensual processes, such as mediation, conciliation, or negotiation, in which the parties attempt to reach agreement. Some use the term dispute resolution to refer only to alternative dispute resolution (ADR); of which generally depends on agreement by the parties to use ADR processes, either before or after a dispute has arisen. However, dispute resolution can also take place online by using technology in certain cases. Online Dispute Resolution, a growing field of dispute resolution, uses new technologies to solve disputes. It also involves the applica tion of traditional dispute resolution methods to disputes which arise online.1 There are a vast array of factors, elements, and subordinated issues in this subject matter, and in order to come to a clearer and more knowledgeable understanding on this issue, the following questions must be addressed: 1. What is the definition and scope of application in regards to Online Dispute Resolution 2. What is the importance of the rise of Online Dispute Resolution 3. What are the similarities and differences between Online Dispute Resolution and Alternative Dispute Resolution 4. What are some problems affecting efficiency in regards to Online Dispute Resolution in the shadow of the law 5. What are some problems affecting efficiency in regards to the trust mechanism in the online environment By thoroughly discussing these five questions, we can come to a more intellectual and critical point of view on the subject matter at hand. The aim of this paper is to discuss all of this, as well as any and all key elements and factors in relation to this. This is what will be dissertated in the following. What is the Definition and Scope of Application in Regards to Online Dispute Resolution Online Dispute Resolution is a branch of dispute resolution which uses specific technology in order to facilitate the resolution of disputes between parties. It primarily involves negotiation, mediation or arbitration, or a combination of all three. In this respect it is often seen as being the online equivalent of Alternative dispute resolution (ADR). However, ODR can also augment these traditional means of resolving disputes by applying innovative techniques and online technologies to the process.2 Online Dispute Resolution can take place either entirely or simply partly online and primarily concerns two types of disputes: those that arise in cyberspace and those that arise offline. As Internet usage continues to expand, it has become increasingly necessary to design efficient mechanisms for resolving Internet disputes because traditional mechanisms, such as

Marketing Segmentation Essay Example for Free

Marketing Segmentation Essay 1. Geographical segmentation: The market is divided according to geographic criteria like nation, state, religion, countries etc. Geographic data create accurate profile of specific. For eg: in rainy season sells rainy clothes (like raincoat, umbrella etc) 2. Demographic segmentation: it divide to the market into groups according to variable in age, family, gender, size of family, income of the consumers etc 3. Psychographic segmentation: It is a science which use in better understands all consumers according to their life style, personality, value and social-class. I am doing job in Bajaj Company, after this company has monopolised in almost all field either in the field of manufacturing bikes or bulb, tube light etc. Earlier, the customers were not fond of verities because there were not too many verities in the market and less competitions, but, in present time a huge competition has been taken place that for survive in the market every companies should be update with their products, otherwise rival companies will lead them. If we talk about the bike fashion we see that our youngsters like those bikes which must not be strong in pickup (60 km/h with few minutes) as well as good looking means it looks different from others, besides this, old agers want those bikes which run comfortably that they ride normally, to keep this in their mind all companies like hero Honda release many bikes like Hero stunner, CBZ, Karizma for young generations. While, for old agers they released Slender, Passion, CD dawn etc, in same pattern Yamaha release Yamaha R15 which cost is almost Rs. 15,000 in present time, but give a good look which attract the customers. So, after much research on these companies, Bajaj Company wants to release such bike series which is not only for young as well as senior can use it, so this company manufactured lots of bikes Pulsar and discover series for youngsters which not only good looking but also having that price which every customers can afford and easily buy the products and it also give good mileage than others companies bike, and from the point of view senior, whose ages is 40 years and above, they release Platina with self start facilities which is easy in riding. By all these information I want to describe that Bajaj Company segmented it products in various categories according to customers’ demand that’s why this company is going extremely good and successful in satisfied to consumers. If we talking about bulb, tube lights, this company manufactured the bulbs, CFLs, tube lights which not give perfect light but also take few electricity and go long times. Especially CFLs which cost are high but it work beyond one years and it takes less electricity and give light so much as a 40 watt tube light gives. There are many designs of CFLs has been released in the market which selling is more than bulbs and tube lights. So according to customer’s choice and willing Bajaj Company put down stylish CFLs in the market which attract consumers with its designs but also reduce the electric bill of customers and supplies good light over all houses. So like this the company segmented it electric accessories in various styles, according to customers willing and choice. Marketing Plan Marketing plan is a marketing strategy which involves marketing plans for a firm’s marketing activities. Marketing planning process is process of business planning; in marketing plan all the firm’s keep an eye on all marketing activities as well as competitors and they also come to know the view of the customers about their products like they are satisfied with their products or not, if not, know the reason of disliking and what they want improve in the products etc, because satisfaction of consumers is very important, after all whole marketing processes and successes are depend only upon customers. They are the important part of business. For e. g. if we talking about auto mobile all companies like Hero Honda, Yamaha, Bajaj etc, manufactured ordinary bikes( like Hero Honda released CD 100 later Splendour , Yamaha CX 100 and Bajaj released scooters and later Bajaj Boxer) but, there were some problems and deficiency took place in the bikes like the capacity of the engine was not good that was giving low mileage, pick up was ordinary and ordinary looks etc, after looking and analysing all problems of customers all companies manufactured those bikes which are giving good mileage, capacity of engine is very good and all are stylish as customers wanted. For e. g. :- Bajaj released discover series, pulsar series, Hero Honda released Passion, Passion plus, CBZ, Karizma etc, Yamaha released Yamaha R15 (but it is too costly), TVS manufactured Apache etc. Beside these, all companies also release scooty for college going girls. Because they knew that all ladies can’t ride the bikes that’s why to keep in mind the facilities of girls they produced scooty which is very light with self start facilities, without gears. These products became very popular among the girls, not girls even boy also taking ride of the scooty many times. Like this all companies conduct a SWOT (strengths, weakness, opportunities, threats) means they research on the behaviour, likes, dislikes, what are the deficiencies in the product, what else and what new their customers want in their products and what other companies provided to customers and do better than them.

Agressive Personality Essay -- Psychology

Essay question #1 Cognition is the mental process of gaining knowledge through thinking, judging and solving problems. Cognition functions to provide human beings with the ability to use language, make perceptions, use the imagination and make decisions. These thought processes play a significant role in personality development. Both biological and environmental factors have been linked to cognition. Biological factors include our genetic makeup and hereditary factors. Genetic makeup determines the physical characteristics of eye color, hair color. Hereditary factors are those traits that are transferred from parents and blood relations. These inherited traits determine temperament of human beings. Both the biological traits of genetics and inheritance play a major role in how human beings perceive themselves and how others interact with them. This cognitive perception of self and others is believed to help determine one’s personality. Environmental factors include how a human being i s raised and how outside influences such as school, church, relationships and society shape their cognitive processes. An example of the relationship between cognition and personality would be of a child born of two different races. Physical characteristics are likely to be different with mixed races causing the child to perceive themselves as abnormal, thus leading to antisocial or introverted personality traits. Essay question #2 The aggressive personality is defined as an â€Å"individual’s whose overall style of interacting involves considerable, persistent, maladaptive aggression† (counselingresource.com). Evolutionary, biological and environmental factors are contributing components of the aggressive personality. Human beings ... ...sachusetts: Allyn And Bacon. Cloninger, S. C. (2008). Theories of Personality Understanding Persons.. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. (Original work published 1996). CounsellingResource.com.CounsellingResource.com – Psychology, Therapy & Mental Health Resources. Retrieved December 6, 2011, from http://counsellingresource.com/features/2008/11/03/aggressive-personalities/ Friedman, H. S., & Schustack, M. W. (2006). Personality: classic theories and modern research. Needham Heights: Allyn And Bacon. (Original work published 1999) Simon, PhD, D. G. (2008, November 7). Understanding the Aggressive Personalities | CounsellingResource.com.CounsellingResource.com – Psychology, Therapy & Mental Health Resources. Retrieved December 6, 2011, from http://counsellingresource.com/features/2008/11/03/aggressive-personalities

Electronic media Of Pakistan

1. What is electronic media? â€Å"Electronic Media† are those communication mediums which are based on electronic or electromechanical means of production and most often distinguished from print media. The primary electronic media sources familiar to the general public worldwide include radio, sound recordings, television, video recording and streaming internet content† . It denotes, â€Å"the main means of communicating with large number of people, especially television, radio, internet and satellite†. The electronic media have four basic functions; to inform, entertain, educate and influence the public opinion.The 20th century can be termed as the century of communication. The main mean of mass communication grew in succession as the century unfolded. Motion pictures arrived on scene in the first decade of this century. Regular radio broadcasts started in 1920s. Television entered the arena in 1940s, followed by cable television in 1950s, and satellite televisi on in 1970s. Lastly the personal computer gave access to Internet in 1980s. It transformed the interconnected computer networks through World Wide Web by the 1990s. . 2 Influence of electronic mediaIn the last 50 years the media influence has grown significantly with the advance of technology, first there was the telegraph, then the radio, the newspaper, magazines, television and now the internet. We live in a society that depends on information and communication to keep moving in the right direction and do our daily activities like work, entertainment, health care, education, personal relationships, travelling and anything else that we have to do. â€Å"What we need to be aware is that most of our decisions, beliefs and values are based on what we know for a fact, our assumptions and our own experience.In our work we usually know what we have to do base on our experience and studies, however on our daily lives we rely on the media to get the current news and facts about what is im portant and what we should be aware of. † We have put our trust on the media as an authority to give us news, entertainment and education. However, the influence of mass media on our kids, teenagers and society is so big that we should know how it really works. . The electronic media has touched every sphere of the human aspect. In the present times, information and technology are interwoven with the society’s economic progress.The evolution of electronic media has had an overwhelming impact on the society. The Opportunities of communication have broken all barriers across national boundaries and have led to the germination of new ideas through the cross pollination of cultures. Electronic information has had a positive impact in the promotion of various social regimes. . 1. 3 Functions of electronic media. The primary functions of electronic media are; to inform, educate, influence and entertain. This means of communication has maximum size of audience, its reach, cove rage and effectiveness of its impact is increasing.Following is a brief description of some of the functions of the electronic media:- To Provide Information. The provision of reliable verifiable; adequate and complete information is one of the primary functions of the electronic media, objectivity is expected in arranging information for the population. To Provide Education . The electronic media can become a powerful and economical tool for education and has a great potential if used imaginatively and with vision. The media can also be used to raise awareness and educate the masses to overcome various social problems and development of civic sense. .To Influence Public Opinion. The revolution in information technology and potential of media to influence and analyze various national and international issues, suggest various options, weigh the best option to arrive at the correct solutions to guide their audience. To Entertain. The electronic media can cater for a wide range of ente rtainments for tastes and requirements of almost all the segments of the society. 1. 4 Growth of electronic media in Pakistan The electronic media in Pakistan has made rapid progress. Only three or four decades ago, radio and state owned TV was considered to be the main sources of information.Today, we have more than 77 Satellite TV Channels, 2346 cable operators, 28 landing TV Channels from abroad like BBC, CNN, Sky, Star etc. and more than 129 FM Stations(on air and in some cases licences issued) including 46 Radio Channels. The investment this year is expected US$ 1. 5 billion. Total investment in this sector is US$ 2. 5 billion. The new jobs likely to be created are 150000. The indirect employment is 7 million. The advertisement market in 2008 was US$ 431 Million and in 2009 it was estimated as US$ 691 million.This growth has made available more knowledge and up to date information in all spheres of life to the general public. TV started its test transmissions in 1964. Pakistan Television Corporation was incorporated as a joint stock company in 1967 and in 1984 it was converted into a corporation under the Companies Ordinance. PTV has been a great source of entertainment. TV has also effectively disseminated information on a variety of subjects to its viewers. However, the objectives set out for PTV at the time of its inception were:- †¢ Instruction and enlightenment.†¢ Enrichment of knowledge and information. †¢ Wholesome entertainment. †¢ Promotion of national outlook and integration. †¢ Presentation of news in a fair, objective, factual manner free from deception by implication and omission. 1. 5 Types of electronic media Radio. In Pakistan like other developing countries, radio is the major source of information and entertainment due to its reach to the far flung areas and being relatively economical. Broadcasts carry news, analyses, commentaries and advertisements. This medium, however, is losing attraction in the public. Tele vision.TV due to its potentials to offer a greater variety than other elements of electronic media has become the strongest form of media to perform all four functions, i. e. information, education, influence and entertainment. Internet. Internet is the latest addition into the elements of medium of electronic communication. It is swiftly bringing a historic shift in the dynamics and profile of the global information sector. The medium also provides instant access to the largest data bases and archives of information around the world. 1. 6 The media and the ground realitiesThe most critical obligation of electronic media is to act as the custodian of the facts. There are certain realities and electronic media’s mindset and peculiarities, which to some extent are universal. The electronic media is a business, a billion dollar industry and thus its primary motive remains to earn money and not harmonize the society. Due to intense competition in the field of electronic media ind ustry, media has to be competitive; to be â€Å"Exclusive and First†. The electronic media often looks for controversy, sensationalism and negative news to make headlines.In some cases the electronic media feels that it has the right to interpret what is good or bad for society using its own standards. The electronic Media was primarily and popularly used by our previous regimes as tool of self propaganda, the quality of news poor, unreliable and un-imaginative presentation of events and stories, ultimately losing the confidence of general public. Introduction of Satellite TV, Cable and Private Channels and Dish widened the scope of awareness of people. The Government of Pakistan realized the sensitivity and potential of private electronic media which could not be avoided through State controlled TV only.The governmental policies regarding electronic media took a different direction, to regulate this sector. 1. 7 Pakistan electronic media regulatory authority The objective of PEMRA was to regulate the electronic media i. e. Radio and TV. This was necessitated by the decision to allow a large number of private TV and radio channels. The Ordinance also gives a Code of Conduct for media broadcasters/ cable TV operators. â€Å"This Regulatory Body was established under the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, having the following goals in mind† i) Improve the standards of information, education and entertainment.ii) Enlarge the choice available to the people of Pakistan in the media for news, current affairs, religious knowledge, art, culture, science, technology, economic development, social sector concerns, music, sports, drama and other subjects of public and national interest. iii) Facilitate the devolution of responsibility and power to the grass roots by improving the access of the people to mass media at the local and community level. iv) Ensure accountability, transparency and good governance by optimization of the free flow of information. . ChallengesIn a democratic country like Pakistan where freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed to every citizen by the Constitution. This fundamental right has to be exercised by all with due care to ensure that it may not incite violence, terrorism, racial, ethnic or religious discrimination, sectarianism, extremism, militancy, hatred, pornography, obscenity, vulgarity or anything offensive to the commonly accepted standards of decency. Similarly, the sanctity of national institutions needs to be respected at all costs. In this regard, PEMRA has formulated a Code of Conduct for the broadcasters.However, the concept of Self-Regulation is promoted to encourage the broadcasters to formulate the rules of the game, themselves. . SECTION-2 FAULT LINES IN NATIONAL COHESION AND INTEGRATION 2. 1 What is National Integration? The concept of National Integration is subject to a wide range of interpretations. However, two definitions which catch the essential spirit of the concept include, â€Å"The creation of a National Political System which supersedes or incorporates all the regional sub-cultures† , and the creation of a â€Å"Common national consciousness, a common national consensus and a common national identity† .These two definitions appear adequate for working purposes as they underline both the political as well as the socio-cultural ingredients of the process of integration. National cohesion refers to the bonds or â€Å"glue† that binds members of society, community or other groups together. The most obvious bonds are ideological, ethnic, linguistic, religious, cultural and historic. However, the homogeneity of a nation is no guarantee of successfully bonding together as a cohesive whole. â€Å"The extent of the threat posed to the integrity of a state by the multiplicity of languages, races, religions etc., depends on a variety of factors but there are basically two requisites (conflict of ideology and economic decline) which must be present b efore a country may be deemed to be faced with a problem of national disunity. † The Pakistani society is in transition, and it faces challenges but still the national interest is to make Pakistan as a unity-in-diversity and there is an ever-growing need to develop a harmonious society. â€Å"The balance sheet of social changes in Pakistani society over the past half century has both cost and benefits.Pakistani society has split into class-cum-lifestyle segments. Its social institutions do not dovetail into each other; instead fissures of institutional lag run through them. Its cohesiveness has given way to the fragmentation and the erosion of value and moral consensus†. 2. 2 Fault Lines in National Cohesion and Integration in Pakistan Integration or cohesion is an ideal, â€Å"it is not a thing but a process. It is dynamism ruled by an inner necessity, being guided in a direction chosen by itself as a goal or rather a series of goals leading to a certain direction â⠂¬ .National integration and social cohesion is the capacity of a society to ensure the welfare of its all members, minimize disparities and avoid polarization. A cohesive society is mutually supportive community of free individuals, pursuing these common goals by democratic means. National integration and social cohesion is at risk in Pakistan because of many impeding factors, which originate within the country or influenced by external reasons. It may also be a complex outcome of interaction between the country forces and stresses and influences of global scenario.The socio-political factors and socio-economic factors as listed below have contributed to cause fault lines in national cohesion and integration. 2. 3 Socio-Political Factors Intolerance and near absence of civic responsibility, now manifested in our society is indeed the outcome of a hierarchical structure and social barriers, further and enforced by policy approaches in the 80s. Politicizing of religion and language is one major source of fractionalization. â€Å"Presently, the culture and society of Pakistan are in the grip of an unprecedented upheaval.In the post 9/11 world, the political, religious, and the social dynamics in Pakistan have been under major internal transformation and intense international scrutiny. Ethnic and sectarian violence which ravaged the country for the last two decades has sharply polarized the society. Various Islamic religious groups jostle violently for power. Religious faith, usually a matter of personal redemption, is flagrantly flaunted and a stunning lack of tolerance for difference increasingly defines Pakistani society. † Constitutional Crisis.The non-agreement and lack of consensus on various revisions and amendments in 1973 constitution remained a contentious issue among the federating units since long. The delayed process of reconciliation and agreement, on this only document to govern the state is a serious threat to national cohesion and integra tion. Provincialism. Imbedded strides of sub national identities engraved into the fabric of the provinces pose an existential threat to national cohesion. This issue is even more pronounced in case of smaller provinces like Khyber Pukhtunwa and Balochistan.Identity crisis prevailing with in the provinces is tarnishing the very physiology of democracy in essence and in dispensation at National level. There are contradictions between national and provincial interests, particularly in matte relating to language, ethnicity, identity, and power. There are small Political groups and movements agitating for their rights, including Baloch issue. Nevertheless, such provincial or regional sentiments swirl within the national cultural pool. Sectarian Intolerance. The division of society on the basis of sects, tribes, colour and creed gives rise to intolerance towards other sects.The violence on sectarianism basis is on the rise. The religious intolerance and extremism, and over emphasis on re ligious identities due to that Pakistani society is facing continuous challenge of terrorism in the name of religion and belief. Political Process and Direction. The directionless political system rarely delivers to the satisfaction of voters. Various derivations of political process have no regard for national objectives and national interests and efforts for achievement of these goals for the country are hardly visible. The political system as a whole is driven by conflicting vested interests.The political parties lack democratic norms in their rank and file. Leadership Style and Direction. The political leadership as a whole has failed to satisfy the masses. The trust deficit between the leadership and the people has widened, and is increasing with the passage of time. The social and political positions of so-called ruling elites are just a symbol of false pride without much regard for vision and justice. Non-State Actors. Unorganized political parties have increased the influenc e of non-state actors in national politics, thereby vested interests are perpetuated, at the cost of national interests.Challenges to the Writ of the Government. The manifestation of this divide is the challenge to the writ of the State in FATA and Malakand Division where state infrastructure of governance has been uprooted, the power elite has been eliminated (either by murder or forced migration) new and parallel structures have been created and the application of Constitution is challenged. â€Å"The so-called Islamic fundamentalists have always been influential in the largely poor, illiterate, and rural Pakistan society.These groups represent a variety of power centres based on an array of belief systems from within Islam. Historically, none of these groups have had much success at the ballot box, but with a strong core of ‘true believers’ with blind faith and unflinching allegiance, they have often been able to display enough Street power to disrupt civil life. Si nce the war of independence in neighbouring Afghanistan in the 1980s, these religious groups have been encouraged and aided by the government of Pakistan and the US State Department.As a result they have ‘flourished and proliferated under the exhilarating notion of jihad. The border between Afghanistan and Pakistan has been porous for centuries because of the unusual terrain that facilitates traffic and a common tribal ethos that informs the lives of the bordering populace. With the rapid and fearsome Talibanization of Afghanistan and the Mullahisation of Pakistan, the borders for all practical and ideological purposes dissolved, and these processes played a vital role in the fluctuating social ethos of Pakistan.† War against Terrorism. The country is facing various challenges. The multiple threats and constant pressures are very serious since post 9/11 due to Pakistan’s commitment with West for fight against terrorism. This involvement is viewed as being done to oblige the West. The suicidal attacks and drone attacks are the result of this involvement. Feudalism / Tribalism. In Pakistan the feudal and tribal society where rights of human being are violated is a matter of concern, people are not free to express their desire to govern.In such circumstances the leadership style is power centred and feudal in character, this leadership enjoys respect because of fear, and not because of trust. â€Å"National and regional culture has, at various times, interwoven and competed with each other. In times when centralization is the ideological thrust, national themes and institutions are in the ascendancy, but when the pendulum swings toward decentralization, regional and ethnic societies and cultures reassert their autonomy.The political ideologies and movements that shift the balance between national and regional social and cultural systems are the markers of Pakistan’s social change. † Role of Madrassa. There is little control of gov ernment over madrassas in the country, these madras do pose a threat to the cohesion of the society in Pakistan, if not regulated adequately. . 2. 4. Socio – Economic Factors Socio – Economic disparities. The poverty and inflation has caused disparities in the society. The people living below the poverty line have increased in number.The unemployment and low income has caused economic imbalance in the society. The division of society and decline in socio-economic standards have adversely impacted the quality of life. Bad Governance. Undemocratic & non-participatory governance. . .The perception of governance leading to good governance is flouted; concepts of transparency and accountability are misleading in Pakistani experience. The accountability is selective and by choice, its aim is not to reform the society of negative practices, but to benefit the fittest and powerful.The people have no faith in the system of governance and accountability. Violation of Human Right s. The human rights violation is on the increase, the weaker segments of the population even do not get the rights given in the constitution and the irony remains ignorance on their part of basic rights bestowed by the constitution. â€Å"The perception of women as having a lower status at all levels is the principle barrier in the way of gender equality and is reinforced by customary practises and the laws of the land.Women education, health, labour force participation, mobility, decision making etc, all reflect the unique situation of women in Pakistan. † Personal Security Perception. The constant engagement of population in this war against terrorism has changed its perception of personal security. The people have doubts about the success of governmental policies. Loyalty towards State /individualistic behaviour. The notion of loyalty towards state is blurred, people’s expectation of justice and fair play are shattered, and therefore, their loyalty towards State is also undermined.The individualism has replaced collectivism; the bigger societal group is vanished. The conflicts of values, beliefs, and other sociological imbalances has damaged the national fabric and has caused segmentation on the basis of caste and class Justice and Rule of law. The justice is uncertain; the rules of game are settled by abuse of power. The respect for justice is linked with status and position of the seeker. The attitude towards Rule of Law is very negative, law breaking is considered as a pride for the powerful.Due to delayed justice people have lost hope in the system to get justice. Violence against Women and minorities â€Å"Many Analysts are in agreement that women’s poor status as well as poverty is rooted in social and cultural organization of society†. The rights of the women are abused, and such abuse is referred to the culture and customs and here- say, this victimization is devoid of any ideological, religious and legal and Constitution al basis. The religious minorities are threatened and do face violence at their religious places, thereby show concern of threat and personal security.â€Å"Empowering women is a challenge, requires changes in the existing class and caste based structure and it needs a focused and active public delivery system to ensure that resources and opportunities earmarked for women reach them† Mistrust in Criminal Justice System. The people do not have trust in criminal justice system, and lack of trust generates uncertainty and confusion in the society. â€Å"In Pakistani society, the judiciary plays a pivotal role in articulating and enforcing rules of conduct for its citizens. The judiciary derives its legitimacy and power from the constitution. †