This is reflected in programme activities as well as in interpersonal communication. The types of issues addressed in our programmes and the level of participation have changed for the better. There is a stronger culture of inclusiveness that creates a stronger sense of ownership among staff that is reflected in the high level of informal consultations that go on all the time. As I face my responsibilities in the new Millennium, I bring to my work a profound commitment to human rights as well as many years of practical experience promoting gender equity and equality in the Arab States. Based on my experience, I do not think that cultural perceptions and human rights are opposed to each other.
All cultures have unique and positive values which respect and nurture human life.
Each society also has individual characteristics which help to identify it and which have helped it to survive through the generations. But no culture worth the name finds it acceptable to discriminate against or oppress women. Where such practices occur, I believe it is often the result of cultural perversion. A good example is female genital mutilation, which is still sometimes claimed to be sanctioned by the Koran. But there is no justification whatever for female genital mutilation in Islamic practice, and countries are increasingly legislating and campaigning against it.