Sharjah:The Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) organized a dialogue session during the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) to explore how individuals can contribute to the development of legislation and help shape laws that address community needs. The event, held at the Thought Hall, focused on public participation in the legislative process under the theme 'Between you and the law A story begins with an idea - can an individual be the starting point of legislation?'
According to Emirates News Agency, the session was attended by prominent figures including Halima Humaid Al Owais, Chairperson of the SCC; Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, Member of the Sharjah Executive Council and Chairman of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Rashid Abdullah bin Huwaiden, Vice-Chairman of the council; and Meera Khalifa Al Muqarab, Secretary-General of the council, along with other council members, legal department staff, and visitors.
The discussion, moderated by broadcaster Abdulraouf Ameera, featured Mohammed Ali Jaber Al Hammadi, Chairman of the council's Legislative, Legal Affairs, Appeals, Suggestions and Complaints Committee; Aisha Mohammed Hazeem Al Suwaidi, Director of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; and Professor Hamoud Tannar, a Professor of Public Law at the University of Sharjah. The dialogue centered on translating community needs into legislation, mechanisms for reviewing and developing laws, and the role of educational institutions and cultural events in promoting informed public participation.
Al Hammadi emphasized that public participation in developing legislation begins with identifying genuine needs in everyday life and turning them into ideas for study. He stated that legal expertise is not necessary for proposal submission, but clarity in describing issues and suggesting solutions is crucial. He also noted the importance of informing individuals about the outcomes of their proposals, whether accepted or not, along with reasons for the decision.
Al Suwaidi highlighted the significance of reviewing legislation to ensure it continues to achieve its intended objectives, pointing out that laws may need updates as circumstances evolve. She advocated for a proactive, systematic approach to legislative review, involving the assessment of legislative impact and consultation with relevant entities.
Professor Tannar provided an academic perspective on public participation, stressing the importance of legal awareness, community representation, effective dialogue, and critical thinking. He also underscored the role of universities and law faculties in fostering legal awareness and presenting inspiring examples.
Dr. Mansour bin Nassar praised the session for its organization and discussions, emphasizing the importance of informed community participation in legislative processes. He directed the Sharjah Government Legal Department to engage with SCC members' observations to develop parliamentary mechanisms.
Al Owais expressed appreciation for the session's outcomes, affirming Sharjah's vision of integrating consultation into legislative practices and maintaining dialogue with the community to serve the public interest.