I want to break free

A group of us were invited to my friend's place for dinner over the weekend. The chef-at-work turned out to be my her friend's cousin from Maldives*, who has a knack of whipping up a delectable meal for the guests.

During our casual discourse, we learnt that her cousin worked as a NGO (Nongovernmental Organization) observer in her home country previously. For those who are not familar with Maldives (like I), I was told that Maldives is the smallest Asian country in terms of population (about 300,000 people). One of the smallest Muslim nations in the world, Tourism and Fisheries constitute the two key components of Maldivian economy. For the former, I have always been mesmerized by the perfect powdery white sands and cyrstal clear water, evident from tourism pictures.

Through our conversation, we learnt about the objectives of NGO including:

• encouraging the observance of human rights;
• improving the state of the natural environment;
• improving the welfare of the disadvantaged;
• representing a corporate agenda.

Further, we were told that demonstrations are used to show a perspective (whether positive or negative) regarding a public issue, especially relating to a social unfairness. A demonstration is usually considered more successful if more people joins in.

In her observer's role in Maldives, we were told that that she has to adopt a 3rd party's stand and detach herself from the demonstrators, whom have assembled in the public in the name of political issues mainly. The public display of common view has stemmed from a serious shortage of schools and basic amenities for the citizens. Much to our dismay!

In my opinon, it is certainly not a mean feat as one needs to always remain calm, and not intervene in the demonstrators'a acitivites, regardless if they are his or her family or friends. We also understood that the police frequently assault the protestors to disperse the crowd. By that, it entails unpleasant treament, or even physical battering of the demonstrators.

While studying in Australia, I had the once in a lifetime encounter with demonstrators on the street. It was quite an eye-opener for me, considering Singapore is a safe and politically sound country.

Your thoughts are always welcome!

* For full information, please check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maldive