Yemeni Imams and Islamic Preachers Examine Rule of Law

As part of its on-going, MEPI-funded project "Democracy and Human Rights Training for Imams", the National Organization for Developing Society convened a discussion session April 14 with 22 Imams and Islamic Preachers on the rule of law.  Moderated by professor Mohammed Abul Aziz of the University of Ta'ez , participants examined the sources, objectives, and application of law.  Participants stressed the need for Yemen to move from merely drafting laws to better enforcing them, and many highlighted the need for a more effective judiciary. 

The session concluded that citizens, including Imams and Preachers, need to be better informed of their rights under civil law, and how those laws can be used to participate in the development of society.  Participants recommended arranging a legal awareness program and examining the possibility of publishing a booklet that summarizes key civil rights laws.