There’s been lots of “good news” in the GDN this past week.
That includes something we expats know to be a fact, with not even a modicum of “fake news”.
Once again, Bahrain is streets ahead of the pack and has been named the best country in the world for expats.
What sets the country apart from its neighbours is Bahrain’s greater tolerance of difference in dress or beliefs, as well as freedom of expression and religion.
Meanwhile, the living is generally easy, there are good facilities in relation to healthcare, lifestyle, a reasonably transparent legal system, low levels of corruption and a leadership and government that is benevolent and accessible – administration not withstanding, since that aspect often needs improvement.
It is a country that is generally encouraging of foreign investment, forward-looking and progressive despite current austerity requirements and high debt levels.
Why wouldn’t you want to live here?
Not all expats would agree of course, especially labourers and construction workers who seek opportunities to work in those areas that Bahrainis prefer to “outsource”.
Like construction work in the hot sun and doing menial tasks.
Then there are the “expert expats”, professional people who I have long believed should be there for the training of Bahrainis, who can then take on their duties when the expats’ task is completed.
That a number of expats want to take Bahraini citizenship at the end of their time in the country and be self-funding, so as not to be a burden on the Bahraini economy, should be entertained.
Unfortunately, this process sometimes takes years to eventuate, if ever, and leaves people and their children in limbo land!
Other “good news” is that those folks from Universal Studios are in talks to establish a “magical kingdom” in Bahrain, on public land in the south of the country.
Hopefully it won’t become another “Never Never Land”.
Although with the facilities at Jaw next door, it will serve lots of Beagle Boys with a good view of what life on the outside may offer.
On the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent, the prison in Kingstown is in the centre of town.
The idea is that the prisoners should be able to hear the sounds of life on the outside, as a constant reminder of what they are missing while inside!
“When you wish upon a star, it makes no difference who you are,” goes the Disney ditty.
Sometimes where you are, like in Kingstown, does make a difference.
It’s also good to see that Bahrain is again challenging the UNHCR Committee on Human Rights to stop dealing with the blaggards of bombast – habitual blighters of Bahrain who denigrate progress the country has made in the field of human rights.
So often voices from afar and a client, pliant media see benevolent rulers as a “slight” on their version of “democracy”.
Mind you, like during the troubles in Ireland, continuing nightly disturbances, illegal street barricades and attacks on police patrols only serve to remind us not to listen to the loud shouting of jaundiced detractors.