This was achieved by restricting the powers of the religious police, which historically enforced strict social codes.

This move is part of a broader effort to promote a more moderate form of Islam within the kingdom.

Vision 2030 has been pivotal in empowering women, with initiatives aimed at increasing female workforce participation to 30% by 2030.

Women now make up more than a third of the workforce, a significant increase from previous years.

Reforms have also allowed women to drive, travel, and run businesses independently, contributing to a decrease in female unemployment rates.

Economically, Vision 2030 seeks to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependency on oil by investing in diverse sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and technology.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role in this diversification, supporting projects like NEOM, a futuristic city designed to boost the kingdom's capacity and attract global talent.

The entertainment industry has also expanded, with increased cultural events and sports initiatives aimed at enhancing domestic leisure spending.

These reforms have not only reshaped the kingdom's economic landscape but have also fostered a cultural revolution, as noted by international figures like Johnny Depp.

The changes have been met with both skepticism and optimism, as they challenge long-standing perceptions of Saudi Arabia.

Overall, MBS's Vision 2030 represents a strategic shift towards a more open and diversified Saudi Arabia, aiming to position the kingdom as a leader in the region while addressing global perceptions and internal socio-economic challenges.

This was achieved by restricting the powers of the religious police, which historically enforced strict social codes.

Title:

Content: Moderate ideology: The silent Saudi revolution

Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

Published: 25th July 2023 12:34 AM  |   Last Updated: 25th July 2023 12:45 AM   |  A+A-

It has been ‘work in progress’ for some time now. Saudi Arabia is changing the tone and texture of its ideology from what has always been considered obscurantist to something that keeps with the times. Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

The kingdom has rapidly secured its position as a centre for cultural events, art exhibitions and film screenings. The nation’s Vision 2030 envisages and fully supports the expansion of the entertainment market to SR30 billion. Almost every domain of entertainment for which Saudi citizens earlier travelled far and wide is now available at home. This is thanks to a break from the past that the de facto ruler, Mohammad bin Salman (MbS), the Crown Prince, has initiated. It makes eminent sense in a nation seeking to develop itself beyond the energy sector with three visionary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy and continuity in terms of ambition in comprehensive development.

All this translates into a modern civilisational outlook with technology, intellectualism, private investment, trade, tourism, academics and more, all becoming the prime domains of functioning. The traditional worldwide perception of Saudi Arabia as the centre of the obscurantist ideology of Islam and a nation with an anti-reformist outlook has persisted, and not without reason. A brief understanding of this is important to appreciate the degree of change that Prince MbS has been able to generate.

As the custodian of the Holy Shrines of Mecca and Medina and the land where Islam’s first message was delivered, the Saudi rulers and clergy have always been all-powerful, even more so after adopting the core ideology expounded by Saudi thinker Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. There is a long history behind this.

A virtual pact between the powerful clergy and the Royal Family has existed to promote the Wahhabi ideology in return for the powers that the Royals enjoyed. The pact saw enhanced clergy power after 1979 when the Shia Revolution occurred in Iran, the Saudi Ikhwan attempted a takeover of the Holy Shrine at Mecca, and the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Wahhabi ideology was about going back to the basics and making the faith much less tolerant by supporting ‘Takfir’, or the power of declaration of a believer as an apostate if Wahhabi tenets are not adhered to. The militant part of the ideology started to come to the fore after 1979. From segments of the Arab world to Afghanistan, Pakistan, parts of India, Indonesia, Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, militancy promoting the Saudi brand flourished, giving rise to the notion of a clash of civilisations.

Saudi Arabia’s energy resources always dictated US policy. A grey zone existed here with simultaneous US support to Israel and Saudi Arabia, stacked primarily against Iran and the collective Arab will against Israel. A couple of factors brought the trigger for change. Among them were the discovery of shale gas in the US and the progressive decline in US dependency on Saudi energy resources. Second was the dwindling Saudi economy and the realisation that in an energy-based economy, without expansion into other domains of economic development, such as trade, technology, tourism, investments, entertainment and intellectual research, Saudi Arabia would waste its opportunities and resources. The tremendous advantage of being the centre of the Islamic world could give it enduring leadership status if it could neutralise the rising militancy within Islam. Nations all around, such as the UAE, had fully utilised their possessions and drawn major economic attraction due to pragmatism followed in all domains, including faith issues. The position of women in Saudi society, in particular, had a damning effect on the nation.

Nothing changes without a leader and a vision. Saudi Arabia was fortunate to get MbS, although his personal equation with the US has remained strained for various reasons, not the least being the Khashoggi factor. However, none of that has affected his intent of modernising the nation and for that, a more moderate form of Islam within the kingdom is necessary. To his credit, he has convinced the clergy of the need to follow his vision, which will also project Islam differently to many others who follow the Saudi guidelines on faith.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, from Saudi Arabia, who recently visited New Delhi for six days, is the Secretary General of the Muslim World League. The organisation was once at the forefront of promoting obscurantist ideology but is now transformed, as is evident from Sheikh al Issa’s message in New Delhi. The Sheikh’s belief which he transparently shared is that a whole generation of Muslims has grown up with an ideology that has given them a negative view of other faiths and an intolerantly sectarian understanding of their own.

In his several meetings with intellectuals, leaders and clergy from diverse faiths in India, he emphasised the role of the clergy in any faith. He admitted that Islam had earned a bad name for itself due to the acts of a few and the refusal of the followers to condemn those acts. He spoke of the role of family and education and decried religious teachers’ unsupervised education of young Muslim children. He mentioned that when intolerance and militancy were rising, people feared confronting them. His most poignant argument was that such obscurantism and militancy cannot be eliminated in the typical military way; they have to be removed from the roots by narratives stronger than the ones expounded.

Sheikh Al-Issa’s visit to India was symbolic of what appears to be the fading of the intolerant and militant element of Islam, but we cannot read too much into this. That change is taking place at the ideological centre is positive, but there is no guarantee of permanency. It is also not necessary that the message from Saudi Arabia is gelling with the vast Muslim populations worldwide. These populations are enmeshed with their local cultures and unlikely to follow examples. What is true is that a message supporting reformation has emanated from the nation considered the custodian of the shrines and, by many, of the faith. Nurturing this and taking it beyond is now the challenge.

Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd)

Former Commander, Srinagar-based 15 Corps. Now Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir

(atahasnain@gmail.com)

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How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

How has the role of the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice changed under Muhammad bin Salman?

No longer acts as the de facto religious police.

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

This move is part of a broader effort to promote a more moderate form of Islam within the kingdom.

How has the role of the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice changed under Muhammad bin Salman?

No longer acts as the de facto religious police.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

What is one of the first priorities of Vision 2030 regarding ideological extremism?

Avoiding actions that cause dissent, encourage violence, or spread dangerous ideas

Combating extremist and ideological thinking

Vision 2030 has been pivotal in empowering women, with initiatives aimed at increasing female workforce participation to 30% by 2030.

Title:

Content: Saudi National Day: kingdom's women celebrate drive towards equal opportunity

Female executives cite "progressive leadership" for their achievements

Beta V.1.0 - Powered by automated translation

As they prepare for the 92nd Saudi National Day on Friday, Saudi women are celebrating the nation's progress and their rise to leadership positions across different sectors.

Saudi women have always coveted more visible and pertinent roles in society, and the kingdom's Vision 2030 is the catalyst that has made them possible.

Saudi Arabia had developed a diversified economy thanks to its “progressive leadership”, Dr Manar Al Moneef, Chief Investment Officer at the kingdom's $500 billion city of the future Neom, told The National.

“We are proud of the incredible accomplishments that have ignited the pride of our people all over the kingdom and we continue to strive for greatness,” she says.

“Neom will continue to be a powerful enabler” of the Saudi Vision 2030, she said.

Dr Manar believes Saudi Arabia is committed to women’s empowerment and has enabled women to obtain the “highest levels” of education and encouraged them to participate in various aspects of “economic, political, and social life”.

“As part of Vision 2030, I am grateful for the major reforms and the continuation of the leadership’s efforts to empower women to occupy leadership positions in various sectors.”

She said Neom’s approach is no different, “we are committed” to creating a working environment that supports, develops, and promotes equality and diversity”.

Vision 2030 aims to boost female participation in the workforce to 30 per cent by 2030.

Saudi women make up more than a third of the country's workforce, statistics released in March this year by the General Authority for Statistics show, a 17.4 per cent increase from five years ago.

Also, the female unemployment rate fell to its lowest level in 20 years in the first quarter of 2022.

Many female leaders attribute this achievement to the kingdom's ambitious programme to completely reshape its economy into one that is self-sufficient, progressive and diversified.

Saudi women have always demonstrated resolve and “Vision 2030 catalysed this determination into action”, said Dr May Taibah, board member and corporate financial controller at the Community Jameel Saudi Foundation.

She has been working in social enterprise for more than a decade, most recently with Bab Rizq Jameel Services and Nafisa Shams Academy for Arts and Crafts.

Vision 2030 caters to the diverse needs of Saudi Arabia’s citizens, as it enables every member of society, “especially women,” to be veritable contributors to the country’s socio-economic growth, she said.

“This gives me a front-row seat to witness first-hand the impact of collaboration between the public, private, and governmental sectors in fuelling human capability,” she told The National. “It is truly inspirational what can be achieved through the right support framework.”

In the first quarter of 2022, the percentage of women in middle management and senior positions rose from 28.6 per cent compared with 39 per cent in first quarter of 2017, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said.

However, the exponential value added by the growth of the female workforce in the kingdom was not limited to statistics and numbers, said Deema Al Bashrawi, Head of Operations at Tanmiah, a manufacturer and distributor of food and agricultural products.

She attributed her professional success to a culmination of factors including the strength of the kingdom’s educational framework, which enabled her to earn a degree in economics, and the support of her family.

She added that “Tanmiah continues to support my sustained growth” since she joined in 2012 as a manager.

“Today, I look forward to continuing to serve my country, customers, partners, and investors as we continue to support the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s goals towards improving food security, reducing waste, and achieving self-sufficiency,” Ms Al Bashrawi said.

Dr Taibah believes that an entrepreneurial mindset is vital to prosperity and extends beyond entrepreneurship.

“The value extends beyond that, to the personal stories of lives, businesses and industries transformed through supportive socio-economic empowerment across the entire framework,” she told The National.

The World Bank’s Women, Business and Law report for 2020 and 2021 found that Saudi Arabia was among the top countries when it came to implementing reforms and rights related to women.

“Vision 2030 was developed to extend equal support, whether a person is a craft worker, start-up CEO or employee,” Dr Tabiah said.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development introduced policies that promote inclusivity, and diversity in the labour market.

These were “to enhance the positive image of women in the workplace, and to create a supportive and inclusive environment to facilitate women’s entry into the labour market”, a ministry representative said earlier this year.

“Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been a champion for women's progress and has helped empower women in the labour market by giving us ease of running businesses and authority which does not require a man,” said Ghalia Abdul, who runs a retail store in Jeddah.

Women's right to drive, travel and run their own businesses had helped her to hire more female workers in the last four years, Ms Abdul said.

The Arab Institute for Women’s Empowerment has said that investing in targeted training for Saudi women would have a return on investment of $400 billion by 2030.

“Most young Saudis have an entrepreneurial spirit and the new changes have helped people like me not just run my own business, but also contribute to the economy and create jobs for women,” Ms Abdul added.

Updated: September 22, 2022, 5:15 AM
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How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Women now make up more than a third of the workforce, a significant increase from previous years.

How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

And women's workforce participation doubled to 36%

Reforms have also allowed women to drive, travel, and run businesses independently, contributing to a decrease in female unemployment rates.

How has Saudi Arabia empowered women and increased their labor market participation under Vision 2030?

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How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

And women's workforce participation doubled to 36%

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

What new permissions have Saudi women gained under Mohammed bin Salman's rule?

Economically, Vision 2030 seeks to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependency on oil by investing in diverse sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and technology.

How has Saudi Arabia diversified its economy under Vision 2030?

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy
To lessen reliance on oil.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role in this diversification, supporting projects like NEOM, a futuristic city designed to boost the kingdom's capacity and attract global talent.

Title:

Content: Yesterday's news that Saudi Arabia's megacity project 'The Line' has been scaled back is the latest sign that the kingdom's audacious state-building enterprise is not going according to plan.

The Line is one of 15 projects announced as part of Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious NEOM undertaking, which is part of the Crown Prince's overall 'Vision 2030' scheme to reshape his oil-dependant country's economy and image.

The linear metropolis was meant to be home to around 1.5 million residents by the end of the decade, with plans to ultimately increase its full capacity to nine million.

The 1,640-foot-tall structure was also meant to stretch across 106 miles of desert, but - according to people familiar to the matter, cited by Bloomberg - it will now only be one-and-a-half miles long (a 98 percent reduction in its planned length) and be home to just 300,000 people by 2030.

The report that it has been scaled back is just the latest sign that Bin Salman's megacity is stalling before even getting off the ground.

Analysts have long expressed scepticism over the project which has touted technology that is yet to be invented. One former worker once described The Line as being 'untethered to reality'.

Yesterday's news that Saudi Arabia 's megacity project 'The Line' has been scaled back was the latest sign that the kingdom's audacious NEOM state-building enterprise is not going according to plan. Pictured: The Line is seen in concept imagery released by Saudi Arabia

As part of the country's audacious and futuristic NEOM project, the linear metropolis was meant to be home to around 1.5 million residents by the end of the decade, with plans to ultimately increase its full capacity to nine million people. However, analysts have long expressed their scepticism - saying the plan features technology yet to even be invented

Pictured: Concept imagery shows an imagined sky garden looking out over the Saudi desert

A concept images shows an artist's rendering of what the interior of The Line would look like, between its two vast 106-mile long landscrapers

When it was first announced, The Line - slated to cost $1.5 trillion (£1.2tn) - was pitched as a new vision for urban design - with computer generated promotional material making it look like something out of a science fiction film.

NEOM as a whole remains one of the largest and most difficult construction projects in history, with the region set to cover a swathe of desert the size of Belgium.

Mohammed bin Salman - or MBS as he is known - sees NEOM as Saudi Arabia's showpiece to transform the country's economy and demonstrate futuristic technology that could transform the way people live their lives around the globe.

However, citing sources close to the project in its report about Saudi Arabia downscaling The Line, Bloomberg noted that the country has not yet approved NEOM's budget for 2024, despite now being well into April.

The publication also said that NEOM's vast expenditure is beginning to concern officials - suggesting Saudi Arabia's immense wealth isn't quite so endless after all.

What's more, some projects outlined in the Vision 2030 are already expected to be delayed past the end-of-the-decade deadline.

Finance Minister Mohammed Al Jadaan said in December that longer is needed to build 'factories' and 'sufficient human resources' for the project.

'The delay or rather the extension of some projects will serve the economy,' he said.

The feasibility of NEOM and The Line has also long been called into question.

Architect and urban planner Etienne Bou-Abdo said of concept images last year: 'the 3D images presented are not classical 3D architecture images', and the designers of the project 'have rather called upon video game designers'.

He stated that the plan includes 'a lot of technology that we don't have today'.

Concept images of The Line released by the kingdom in 2022 showed a vast, structure slicing through the desert near crystal blue ocean waters

The 1,640-foot-tall structure was meant to stretch across 106 miles of desert, but - according to people familiar to the matter, cited by Bloomberg - it will now only be one-and-a-half miles long, a 98 percent reduction in its planned length

A map shows where The Line was set to be built, and how long it would have been. Saudi officials said it would be built in stages, and would eventually cover a 106-mile stretch of desert along the coast of the Red Sea in the western Tabuk province

In a promotional video released by the Kingdom, it was suggested that nine million people could live in The Line (pictured in concept art) at full capacity

The Line's vast construction was set to extend from the heart of another planned Red Sea megacity, a plank of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's bid to diversify the Gulf state's oil-dependent economy - to the ocean

A number of The Line's key features, particularly those related to energy and transport, are based on technologies that do not even exist even in prototype form.

Since its inception, MBS's vision for the project has changed frequently - with workers finding themselves in the difficult position of having to manage the expectations of a man who is known to have imprisoned his own family.

'The concept has morphed so much from its early conception that it's sometimes hard to determine its direction: scaling down, scaling up, or making an aggressive turn sideways,' said Robert Mogielnicki of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, following the presentation in 2022.

There has also been frequent staff turnover, with some former workers describing the vision for NEOM as being 'untethered from reality'.

According to a Bloomberg report in 2022, who interviewed 25 employees and saw 2,700 pages of internal documents, the project has been plagued by setbacks.

Attempts to relocate the indigenous population who have lived at the NEOM site for generations, were reported as being 'turbulent' - with one incident even descending into a gun battle.

Several key staff have quit, blaming a toxic work environment and a culture of massive overspending without seeing results.

They also described how the project had become a favourite for contractors - including architects and Hollywood production designers - all of whom are taking a cut of Saudi Arabia's oil riches.

'I was not alone in realising that it was spurious at best,' Andy Wirth, an American hospitality executive who worked on Neom, told Bloomberg for its 2022 report.

'The complete absence of being tethered to reality, objectively, is what was demonstrated there,' he added at the time.

In its report, the American publication wrote: 'The chaotic trajectory of Neom so far suggests that MBS's urban dream may never be delivered.'

Overall, 15 sites have been announced as part of the NEOM megacity.

With names like Xaynor, Zardun and Siranna - NEOM's destinations are often described in manicured promotional material as 'sanctuaries' or 'oases'.

Computer generated concept images and videos show gleaming structures rising out of the desert, with model-like actors looking on in wonder, or taking part in various activities such as jet skiing or mountain biking.

Salman is hoping to create a desert metropolis known as NEOM. Pictured: NEOM's 'Oxagon' - a futuristic port city - is seen in concept imagery

The Line was the first announced in 2017 - and officially in January 2021 - with MBS delivering a presentation - capturing the attention of both city planners, architects and the general public around the world.

The announcement of 'Oxagon' - a futuristic port city - followed in November.

Concept images of The Line released by the kingdom in 2022 showed a vast structure slicing through the desert near crystal blue ocean waters.

The megacity was to feature two parallel skyscrapers extending across a swathe of desert and mountain terrain, with mirrored facades on the outside.

Saudi officials said it would be built in stages, and would eventually cover a 106-mile stretch of desert along the coast in the western Tabuk province - with its Western tip pointing out over the Red Sea towards Egypt.

In its original design, if built in the UK, The Line would have been able to stretch between London to Birmingham, or even from London into France.

In US-terms, it was longer than the distance between New York and Philadelphia.

However, unlike city sprawls we are accustomed to today, the vast metropolis would have been contained in the two mirrored structures - each rising 500 meters above sea level, taller than the Empire State building.

At just 200 yards wide, The Line was intended to be Saudi Arabia's answer to unchecked and wasteful urban sprawl, layering homes, schools and parks on top of each other in what planners term 'Zero Gravity Urbanism'.

Promotional material says residents will have 'all daily needs' reachable within a five-minute walk, while also having access to other perks like outdoor skiing facilities and 'a high-speed rail with an end-to-end transit of 20 minutes'.

For a train to travel 106 miles in 20 minutes, it would need to be able to travel at 318 miles per hour - 16 miles per hour faster than the Beijing to Shanghai speed line, one of the fastest railway lines in the world.

In his presentation, Prince Mohammed sketched out an even more ambitious vision, describing a car-free utopia that would become the planet's most liveable city.

The site would be powered by 100 percent renewable energy and feature 'a year-round temperate micro-climate with natural ventilation', the promotional video said - something that would be a necessity considering temperatures in Saudi Arabia can range from 27 degrees to 43 degrees.

Other flourishes were proposed too, like flying taxis and robot maids, prompting architects and economists to question its feasibility further.

Officials had earlier said The Line's overall population would top one million, but Prince Mohammed said the number would actually hit 1.2million by 2030 (other reports have suggested 1.5 million) before climbing even further by 2045.

In a promotional video released by the Kingdom, it was suggested that nine million people could live in The Line at full capacity.

The eye-popping total is part of a hoped-for nationwide population boom that Prince Mohammed said would be necessary to make Saudi Arabia - the world's biggest crude exporter - an economic powerhouse.

The goal for 2030 is to have 50 million people - half Saudis and half foreigners - living in the kingdom, up from roughly 34 million today.

By 2040 the target is 100 million people, he said in 2022.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman announces 'The Line' to be built at NEOM in northwestern Saudi Arabia, January 10, 2021

'That's the main purpose of building NEOM, to raise the capacity of Saudi Arabia, get more citizens and more people in Saudi Arabia. And since we are doing it from nothing, why should we copy normal cities?' Prince Mohammed said at the time.

However, not everyone was convinced at the time.

Writing for the New York Times in 2021, US journalist and author Robert Worth wrote scathingly about the project.

'To watch [MBS's] promotional video is to be immersed in a distinctively Saudi form of arrogance, blending religious triumphalism and royal grandiosity,' he said.

Analysts have also noted that plans for NEOM have often changed course over the years, fuelling doubts about whether The Line would ever become reality.

It was once touted as a regional 'Silicon Valley', a biotech and digital hub spread over 10,000 square miles.

But it was also a vehicle for reimagining urban life on a footprint of just 34 square kilometres, and addressing what Prince Mohammed describes as 'liveability and environmental crises'.

With it being scaled back, it is now unclear whether The Line will still feature its twin skyscrapers seen in the concept images, or if the whole project will have to be reconsidered altogether.

Reports of the scale-back to The Line project coincided with more bad news for Saudi Arabia, after it was announced on Sunday that Saudi Aramco - the state-owned petroleum and natural gas company - saw a 24.7 percent decline in profits in 2023.

In a filing to the Saudi stock market, the oil giant said net income reached 454.7 billion Saudi riyals ($121.25 billion) in 2023 down from 604.01 billion Saudi riyals ($161.07 billion) it reported in 2022.

'The decrease mainly reflects the impact of lower crude oil prices and lower volumes sold, and weakening refining and chemicals margins,' Aramco said.

The huge trench can be seen stretching into the distance as foundations for the incredible megacity are dug out in footage from 2022

Construction workers stand on the edge of a vast trench being dug for The Line megacity

Pictured: Construction workers are seen operating excavators in drone footage captured in 2022 when The Line project began

While Saudi officials will have been left red-faced with the news that the project is being scaled back, it will certainly come as a relief to conservationists who raised the alarm over The Line's environmental impact.

Experts warned last year that the vast mirrored surface would be a 'death trap' for millions of birds migrating between Europe and Africa each year.

As Saudi Arabia touted the finished project's sustainability credentials, researchers identified the construction project itself as one of the 15 most pressing conservation issues to watch in 2024.

And experts have said in a study released in December that a combination of factors mean it poses a huge risk to birds that migrate over Saudi Arabia every year.

These include the mirrored facades, the city's orientation and the intention to have wind turbines along the top of it.

'Birds flying into tall windows is a serious problem, and this is a building that is 500m high going across Saudi Arabia, with windmills on top,' Professor William Sutherland, director of research in Cambridge University's zoology department, told The Times .

'It's also kind of like a mirror so you don't really see it,' Sutherland, who led the study, added. 'So unless they do something about it, there's a serious risk that there could be lots of damage to migratory birds.'

Nightingales, wheatears, larks, sandgrouse and turtle doves are all species of bird that use the migratory route which could be affected.

Other species known to travel that way include the Egyptian vulture and saker falcon, both of which are endangered globally, The Times reported.

Treyam - another NEOM project announced last month - is an 'elevated haven' - a luxury resort, stretching over a desert lagoon, with a nearly half a kilometre long swimming pool on its roof

Looking like something from the future, the complex will stretch across a desert lagoon

NEOM is roughly the size of Belgium and situated on the west coast of Saudi Arabia

The publication said the area The Line is set to occupy is already a bottleneck for an estimated 2.1million birds that travel between Europe and Africa every autumn.

It noted that every year, 988 million birds are killed in collisions with buildings in the US alone, with the risk found to be higher in areas with glass or mirrored buildings.

The news of the scale-back comes just weeks after Saudi Arabia announced its latest wildly ambitious NEOM project: The world's longest sky pool built on the roof of a 250-room resort.

Treyam - announced in March with more computer generated concept images - is being billed as an 'elevated haven' - a luxury complex, stretching over a desert lagoon, with a nearly half-kilometre-long swimming pool on its roof.

How does Vision 2030 aim to foster new industries and employment?

To drive development in high-tech
To reduce Saudi Arabia's oil dependence

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy
To attract foreign investment
To lessen reliance on oil.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

The entertainment industry has also expanded, with increased cultural events and sports initiatives aimed at enhancing domestic leisure spending.

Title:

Content: Johnny Depp's bizarre bromance with MBS: Pair have a 'genuine connection' and Pirates of the Caribbean star has 'become a believer that Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a cultural revolution'

  • The Pirates of the Caribbean star has struck up a friendship with Saudi Arabia 's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after the kingdom's ruling family invested millions in his latest film project
  • MBS has spent billions under his Vision 2030 plan to make Saudi Arabia a cultural and economic powerhouse
  • Depp insists that Saudi Arabia, a country plagued by accusations of human rights abuses, is experiencing a 'cultural revolution'

Johnny Depp has struck up a bizarre friendship with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after the kingdom's ruling family invested millions into the actor's latest film.

MBS has spent billions under his Vision 2030 plan to make Saudi Arabia, plagued by accusations of human rights abuses, a cultural and economic powerhouse by investing in the arts, sports and forging personal connections with stars.

Depp, 60, first met MBS, 38, after filming Jeanne du Barry, which Saudi Arabia had invested millions, in the summer of 2022.

'They made a genuine connection. It's a shock to many of the people who know [Depp], but it's what happened' a friend of Depp's told Vanity Fair

Both men have faced a reckoning in the public perceptions of their carefully crafted images in recent years.

Depp was found to have domestically abused his ex-wife Amber Heard when he lost a libel case in the UK in 2020.

Johnny Depp, 60, first met MBS, 38, after filming Jeanne du Barry, which Saudi Arabia had invested millions, in the summer of 2022 (pictured at the Red Sea International Festival in 2023)

Johnny Depp has struck up a bizarre friendship with Saudi Arabia 's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (pictured)

Two years later a series of further disturbing details, including accusations of sexual abuse, were made public after he successfully sued Heard for libel two years later.

MBS, once a favorite among Western leaders who considered him a great reformer, irrevocably harmed his image by sanctioning the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

Depp insists that Saudi Arabi is experiencing a 'cultural revolution.'

'Though I admit I was somewhat naïve at first to what was transpiring in the region, I've since experienced firsthand the cultural revolution that is happening there' Depp told Vanity Fair.

The country has 'emerging young storytellers radiating fresh ideas and works of art to a blossoming film infrastructure and a newfound curiosity for innovation' her explained.

Adding: 'I've had the opportunity to meet people from various parts of the region who have been most welcoming in sharing with me their culture, their traditions, and their stories.'

Indeed, MBS has spent hundreds of billions on sports, tourism, the arts and other ventures such as real estate to move the country away from its dependence on oil money and become a diversified economic powerhouse.

MBS' Vision 2030 plan has made the entertainment industry, including film production, as key focus as it increases tourism and cultural perception of the kingdom but also encourages the country's 30 million residents to do their leisure spending domestically.

Depp met with Prince Badr (left), the kingdom's culture minister in July 2022 while filming his French period film

Depp told Vanity Fair that Saudi Arabi is experiencing a 'cultural revolution'

Depp was found to have domestically abused his ex-wife Amber Heard when he lost a libel case in the UK in 2020

The Kingdom's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has invested millions in establishing the LIV Golf tournament, attracting players such as Dustin Johnson and Sergio Garcia.

The PIF also provided the bulk of the funds for a Saudi takeover of Newcastle United football club in 2021, a controversial deal that became a hot button issue for the UK government.

'We're making up for lost time and making sure that our country realizes its potential,' a Saudi government adviser told Vanity Fair.

Depp previously associated with another Saudi prince, Abdulaziz bin Fahd, but a member of his entourage was convicted of raping a woman in 2012 at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, where the prince had rented out a block of rooms.

Prince Abdulaziz stopped appearing in public in 2017, having been detained by MBS along with 300 of Saudi Arabia’s richest men on suspicion of corruption.

The prince  eventually reemerged, smiling for a photo with MBS, but he has kept a very low profile ever since.

The sudden disappearance reportedly made Depp wary of an initial meeting with any further Saudi royals.

However, he was talked around and met with Prince Badr, the kingdom's culture minister in July 2022.

A few months later he flew to Jeddah for the 2022 Red Sea Film Festival and during the trip was introduced to the Crown Prince.

Depp visited again in early 2023 and was invited to MBS’s royal camp in the mountains.

The actor also flew on multiple occasions by helicopter to MBS’s yacht, one of the largest in the world.

The two men are now close friends, according to Vanity Fair, and friends of Depp told the publication he values the friendship and doesn’t want anything in return.

However, Depp's team are in talks with the Saudi government are in talks over a seven figure deal for him to attend events and shoot films in the country, the outlet reported.

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How has Saudi Arabia diversified its economy under Vision 2030?

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What new permissions have Saudi women gained under Mohammed bin Salman's rule?

These reforms have not only reshaped the kingdom's economic landscape but have also fostered a cultural revolution, as noted by international figures like Johnny Depp.

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

The changes have been met with both skepticism and optimism, as they challenge long-standing perceptions of Saudi Arabia.

Title:

Content: Paris Fashion Week: Mohammed Ashi brings CHANGE in Saudi Arabia's culture to the ramp

The Saudi fashion industry is just one facet of a broader strategy pursued by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify the country's economy and foster social changes.

First Published Jul 6, 2023, 2:10 PM IST

In a remarkable milestone for Saudi Arabia's cultural evolution, Mohammed Ashi, a Saudi designer, made his debut at Paris Fashion Week, marking a significant moment in the kingdom's push into the global fashion scene. Ashi, known for dressing top celebrities, described this achievement as the pinnacle of his career. The event coincided with Saudi Arabia's announcement of its own fashion week scheduled for October, as the country aims to tap into new retail opportunities valued at $32 billion annually.

Also read: Saudi documenting Hadith to stop misuse by Islamic radicals, terrorists

The Saudi fashion industry is just one facet of a broader strategy pursued by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify the country's economy and foster social changes. This approach involves redirecting the nation's oil wealth towards investments in movies, sports, video games, tourism, and other cultural endeavors. While skeptics initially viewed these initiatives as mere smokescreens to deflect attention from human rights concerns, the reforms have surpassed expectations by introducing substantial and transformative changes.

A post shared by Ashi Studio (@ashistudio)

Yousef Akbar, a fashion designer who established his brand in Australia and has dressed renowned celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Rita Ora, expressed his astonishment at the magnitude of the transformation. He never anticipated such progress while growing up, and starting his fashion label in Australia seemed to determine the course of his career. However, he now operates his business from Jeddah, highlighting the growing opportunities within Saudi Arabia's burgeoning fashion scene.

"For the first two years, I almost didn't believe it was real, but then I realised, wow, it IS real," said 37-year-old Yousef Akbar, who began his eponymous fashion label in Australia in 2017.

"I really never thought when I was growing up that this would happen. When I started my brand in Australia, I thought my whole life would be there since I'm a fashion designer," Akbar added.

Also read: Why Saudi Arabia's oil production cuts are a risky gamble

The Saudi Fashion Commission aims to capitalize on newfound freedoms regarding public dress and the flourishing private sector, projecting a remarkable 48 percent surge in retail sales to $32 billion between 2021 and 2025. In line with this vision, the commission has launched the Saudi 100 brands program, fostering local designers and nurturing a homegrown industry.

Burak Cakmak, the CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, believes that the country's rich heritage and existing brand presence lay the groundwork for a thriving fashion industry, dispelling the notion that Saudi Arabia is starting from scratch.

"Just because the country wasn't exposed to the rest of the world doesn't mean they are starting now," he told AFP in Paris. "I had an event for a brand this week that's been running since the 70s."

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It is important to acknowledge that LGBTQ individuals face severe repression in Saudi Arabia, as the country criminalizes same-sex relations. Despite this, the authorities are apparently turning a blind eye to the influence of queer designers and couturiers within the fashion industry.

Susanne Koelbl, author of "Behind the Kingdom's Veil," suggests that as long as individuals maintain loyalty to the ruler and their families approve, the authorities are choosing to overlook these aspects.

"Maybe you can't dance naked on the table, but almost anything else is possible now, as long as your family is OK with it and you are loyal to the ruler," Koelbl told AFP.

With opposition largely repressed and religious leaders stripped of power, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman faces few obstacles in implementing his well-planned and long-scheduled reform agenda, which is dramatically reshaping Saudi society. This process of change brings new and significant opportunities, particularly for women, who are experiencing a shift in societal roles and expectations.

"It's a well-planned, long-scheduled reform process which is about to change the society completely," said Koelbl. "The Saudi people don't tend to be revolutionary and for the vast majority there are indeed new and big opportunities now, especially for women."

For those benefiting from these reforms, the excitement is palpable and inspiring. Witnessing the realization of what was once deemed impossible serves as a powerful motivation for individuals like Yousef Akbar, who see tremendous potential for their own businesses.

"It sounds cliched, but seeing something happen that we all thought was impossible is very inspiring for my own business," said Akbar.

Also read: Arab youth sees India as stronger ally than the US: New survey

Saudi Arabia's presence at Paris Fashion Week and its broader efforts to embrace cultural transformation are indicative of a nation striving to redefine itself on the global stage. As the kingdom continues to invest in various aspects of global culture, it signals a desire to not only diversify its economy but also to foster social progress and create opportunities for its people.

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Overall, MBS's Vision 2030 represents a strategic shift towards a more open and diversified Saudi Arabia, aiming to position the kingdom as a leader in the region while addressing global perceptions and internal socio-economic challenges.

Title:

Content: RIYADH — Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the remarkable achievements made by Saudi Arabia ever since the launch of its Vision 2030 and the government’s relentless efforts to implement structural reforms in the financial and economic sectors. The Crown Prince, who is also chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, said this in a statement issued on the occasion of the approval of the state’s general budget for the fiscal year 2024 by the Council of Ministers on Wednesday.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscored that the Kingdom is witnessing sustainable economic growth in light of the great development capabilities and opportunities that the Kingdom enjoys within the framework of the Vision 2030 to enable it to move forward towards a better future worthy of its status in accordance with the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman. “This produced a clear and prominent impact on the growth of the gross domestic product (GDP) of non-oil sectors.”

The Crown Prince affirmed the commitment made by the government in the budget for the fiscal year 2024 so as to enhance economic growth through the expansion of government spending. “The budget figures announced by King Salman come supportive and enabling many programs and initiatives. These include investments to strengthen infrastructure, raise the quality of services provided to citizens, expatriates and visitors, in addition to developing promising economic sectors, enhancing investment attraction, stimulating industries, and raising the proportion of local content and non-oil Saudi exports,” he said while praising the effective and important role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the National Development Fund.

The Crown Prince emphasized that work would continue to develop the Kingdom’s public financial performance, by increasing financial capacity and building government reserves, in a way that enhances the capacity of the Kingdom’s economy, maintains sustainable levels of public debt, and enables it to confront any developments or crises that may arise in the future. “The increase in spending is mainly due to the government’s keenness to continue developing the level of public services provided to citizens, expatriates and visitors, as well as to implement many projects and expand spending on sectoral and regional development strategies that would achieve positive structural changes, leading to expanding and diversifying the economic base,” he said.

The Crown Prince stressed the government’s keenness on developing and strengthening partnership with the private sector so as to enable and motivate it to play its major role in achieving economic diversification, as far as to enable the labor market to absorb more of the Saudi workforce, create job opportunities in the labor market and reduce unemployment rates among Saudis. “The total number of Saudis in the labor market this year jumped to 2.3 million, in addition to improving the investment environment to be an attractive environment that contributes to raising the proportion of domestic and foreign investment, developing non-oil exports and improving the non-oil trade balance of payments,” he said.

The Crown Prince emphasized that the journey of economic diversification continues through supporting promising sectors, as the Kingdom works to raise tourism targets to 150 million visitors internally and externally by 2030 in addition to building an effective sports sector through the “Investment and Privatization Project for Sports Clubs,” in order to achieve the goals of the Vision 2030 in the sports sector, as these sectors are witnessing rapid growth and providing diverse opportunities.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman reiterated the Kingdom’s determination to develop its industrial sector, as it is one of the most important vital sectors in the Saudi economy, by diversifying the industrial base and value chains through the “National Strategy for Industry'', which focuses on 12 sub-sectors to diversify the industrial economy and raise the industrial domestic product by around three times compared to the year 2020, reaching SR895 billion in 2030 to be a major contributor to the development of non-oil exports. This is in integration with the important role of the PIF as it is the investment arm that contributes and complements the efforts undertaken by the government in diversifying the economy, and the pivotal role of the National Development Fund and its affiliated funds in providing concessional financing to the private sector, he pointed out.

Speaking about the pivotal and leadership role of the Kingdom, the Crown Prince stressed the Kingdom’s role regionally and internationally, and its endeavor to ensure that the countries of the world enjoy security and stability, as they are the main factors for development and prosperity, and its keenness to develop and stabilize supply and value chains in a way that serves the development and economic prosperity of all countries of the world.

The Crown Prince stressed the Kingdom’s determination to continue the development momentum during the coming year and in the medium and long term with boosting the attractiveness of the Kingdom’s economy as a base for local and foreign investments besides diversifying the economy through the development of all economic sectors.

© Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy
To lessen reliance on oil.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?


It was founded by Carlo Petrini and a group of activists who sought to promote traditional food preparation methods and locally sourced ingredients, countering the fast-food culture.

The movement emphasizes seasonality, locality, and tradition, advocating for food that is good for consumers, the planet, and communities.

The tenets of the Slow Food movement include promoting biodiversity, supporting small-scale farmers, and fostering sustainable food systems.

It encourages a return to traditional cooking methods and the use of artisanal techniques, focusing on quality over quantity.

The movement has grown to include around 100,000 members in over 150 countries.

Current proponents of the Slow Food movement include Slow Food Uganda, which emphasizes the importance of local farmers and biodiversity.

The Causeway Coast and Glens in Northern Ireland is recognized as a Slow Food destination, promoting local suppliers and venues.

To sample the best Slow Food cuisine, consider visiting regions known for their commitment to the movement, such as the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland or participating in Slow Food events and markets that highlight local and traditional foods.

Additionally, exploring local farmers' markets and engaging with communities that prioritize Slow Food values can provide authentic experiences.

It was founded by Carlo Petrini and a group of activists who sought to promote traditional food preparation methods and locally sourced ingredients, countering the fast-food culture.

Title:

Content: Breaking The Industrial Cycle With Slow Food

Where do you go to get your groceries? If your first thought was your local supermarket, you are not alone. Shopping in large grocery stores became the norm for many of us, and we rely on these outlets more than we realise. They are convenient, filled to the brim with seemingly every product you could imagine and have a price point that fits most pockets.

From afar it seems like the perfect solution, but we all witnessed what happened in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic turned life on its head and among many others, highlighted the fragility of our food economy and the part supermarkets play in it.

The University of Oxford describes our food system as “a complex set of interconnected practices and relationships that ultimately deliver food from farms, processing facilities, factories, warehouses, and retailers, to the dinner table.”

Slow Food

The industrial food system is built for scale and efficiency with an aim to maximise production, reduce cost, and function much like factories.

Although many supermarkets and producers are taking steps to include the origins of their products on their labels, there is still not enough transparency around where our food actually comes from. This industrialised structure offers customers accessibility to a wider range of products at more affordable prices but has economic and environmental impacts that many are not aware of.

Industrial agriculture is notorious for using a range of fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides in their processes to maximise output, some of which stays present in the soil long after the crops are harvested. The products are then processed in factories, stabilised with preservatives and packaged in plastic, all occurring before they are loaded onto long haul freights, planes, lorries to arrive in distribution centres and eventually to supermarket shelves.

BBC Good Food reported that “DEFRA estimates that moving food is responsible for 25 per cent of all miles covered by heavy goods traffic in the UK. Transporting food within, to and around the UK produces 19 million tonnes of CO2 annually – equivalent to around 5.5 million typical cars.”

The length of the supply chains involved in industrial food systems result in a fragile structure as any slight disruption throughout the intricate process can halt the supply chain at any time.

However, this industrial food system is not the only one available to our economy. While our modern supermarkets heavily rely on large-scale agriculture, large scale production and precise, uninterrupted international food trade and fast turnaround times, the alternative slow food system focuses on a more resilient structure.

As the resilient alternative to this industrial cycle that many in the industry are championing, Slow Food is focused on returning to the traditional methods and celebrating all things local.

The not for profit grassroots organisation, Slow Food was set up in Italy in the late 1980s in a bid to promote traditional food preparation methods and locally sourced ingredients, going against the arrival of the American fast-food chain McDonald’s in Rome. The eco-gastronomic organisation now has around 100,000 members in over 150 countries.

Recognising and raising awareness of the negative impact the industrial food system had on society, the economy and the environment, the organisation ignited a Slow Food movement: a new way of conscious consumerism that takes seasonality, locality and tradition into account.

A slow, or resilient food system can take on many forms, starting with us as individuals making a conscious effort to engage with producers, venues and outlets that are aligned with the slow food values, to foraging, growing our own produce and going to local farmers’ markets.

Any involvement in the movement can make a significant difference in local communities and build a more sustainable, resilient and eco-friendly food system.

As the first accredited Slow Food destination in Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coast and Glens have been spearheading the move toward this resilient system and together with Taste Causeway, the collaborative network of local food and drink businesses.

From exciting slow food events to highlighting producers and awarding them with Slow Food accreditation, Taste Causeway and Slow Food NI are putting local suppliers and venues at the forefront of consumers’ minds, one business at a time.

To find out more about how you can support the Slow Food movement, the businesses involved and the upcoming events on the Causeway Coast, go to https://slowfood.tastecauseway.com/

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What are the supporters of slow food movement advocating?

On returning to traditional food methods

What happened after the opening of McDonald's restaurants in Rome opened?

Who is founder of the Slow Food Movement?

An Italian sociologist and activist
Carlo Petrini

The movement emphasizes seasonality, locality, and tradition, advocating for food that is good for consumers, the planet, and communities.

What are the supporters of slow food movement advocating?

On returning to traditional food methods

A movement promoting responsible use of marine resources.

What is the purpose of Taiwan's Taitung County Government ito hold the "SLOW SUPER Taitung Slow Farmer Market"?

To promote sustainable agricultural development

The tenets of the Slow Food movement include promoting biodiversity, supporting small-scale farmers, and fostering sustainable food systems.

Title:

Content: Slow Food Uganda Triumphs at the National Agroecology Action week 2023

The Agroecology Week of Action, organized by Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM) Uganda, served as a platform for like-minded Civil Society Organizations, and individuals to come together and uphold the cause of agroecology. From the National Agroecology Actors Symposium, Agroecology Market Systems Expo, to the Indigenous Food and Seed Fair, the five-day event was a dynamic and comprehensive display of the power and potential of agroecology. The Slow Food Uganda’s invaluable participation in this week-long event aimed to raise awareness, foster knowledge exchange, and inspire action towards a more just, resilient and equitable sustainable food system. The Slow Food Uganda participation in the Agroecology Week of Action provided a critical opportunity for the selected Slow Food Communities to share experiences, showcase success stories, and discuss the challenges faced by small-scale farmers and other Agroecological Actors.

PELUM Uganda, an umbrella organization comprising over 60 civil society organizations, has long been organizing this annual event of the Agroecology Week of Action, which has become an inspiration for empowering the small-scale farmers, stakeholders, and communities in driving positive change towards a more resilient and sustainable future for food and agriculture through fostering a deep-rooted commitment to promoting agroecology as a transformative approach to farming. The outstanding activities organized have made this event a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and advocacy for sustainable food systems.

Throughout the Agroecology Week of Action, participants were treated to a diverse range of activities, including panel discussions, exhibitions, and cooking demonstrations. Slow Food Uganda’s active involvement in these events brought forth their expertise in promoting traditional food cultures, fostering food sovereignty, and advocating for the preservation of local food biodiversity.

By bridging the gap between policy and practice, the Agroecology Week of Action aimed to influence decision-makers and stakeholders to prioritize agroecology as a viable solution to the challenges facing our food systems. Through engaging dialogues and thought-provoking presentations, this event provided a space for critical discussions on issues such as climate change, food sovereignty, and rural livelihoods. Slow Food Uganda’s participation further strengthened the credibility and impact of these discussions, drawing attention to the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Here is the highlight of Slow Food Uganda’s participation in all the events that happened during the Agroecology Week of Action:

National Agroecology Actors Symposium

Slow Food Uganda’s participation in the side event focused on “Consumer and Market Led Mechanisms for Scaling up Agroecology” during the National Agroecology Actors Symposium was instrumental in highlighting the crucial role of Earth Markets in promoting and expanding agroecological enterprises. During this side event, John Kiwagalo from Slow Food Uganda shared insights and experiences on how Earth Markets can contribute to scaling up agroecology entrepreneurship. He emphasized the importance of Earth Markets in raising awareness among consumers about the benefits of supporting agroecological practices for environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and improved nutrition.

Slow Food Uganda’s participation in this side event was key in sharing success stories and best practices from the Earth Markets network, highlighting how market-led approaches can attract farmers to adopt agroecological practices, leading to improved livelihoods and sustainable agricultural systems. The insights and recommendations shared by Slow Food Uganda during the side event served as a call to action for policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders to integrate consumer and market perspectives into their strategies for scaling up agroecology.

Agroecology Market Systems Expo

One of the highlights of the Agroecology Week of Action was the vibrant market expo, where agroecological entrepreneurs from across Uganda showcased their organic produce and traditional food products. This unique platform not only celebrated the richness and diversity of local agricultural practices but also provided a direct link between agroecological producers and consumers who value sustainable and diverse nutritious food. Through showcasing the Earth Market and the Slow Food Cooks Alliance model, Slow Food Uganda played a crucial role in emphasizing the significance of supporting local economies and short supply chains as well as promoting food that is good for people, the planet, and communities. Milly Namakula, a dedicated member of the Dembe Catering Cooks Alliance, skilfully prepared the renowned Nyasaland Arabica coffee sourced from the Nyasaland Coffee Presidium in Mbale district. This local processed coffee was proudly showcased and served alongside the delightful local sweet bananas sourced from the robust BOCOVACO Food Community in Buikwe district. The esteemed presence of Mr. Abitekaniza Johnson, the Assistant Commissioner of MSME Training and Business Skills Development at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives who represented the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, as the chief guest of the day, further raised the significance of the occasion. During his visit to the Slow Food Uganda stand, Mr. Abitekaniza Johnson had the opportunity to gain deep insights into the remarkable work carried out by Slow Food Presidia, Earth Markets, Cooks Alliance, and Food Communities. This provided the minister with a deeper understanding of how these initiatives actively foster agroecological markets, thereby enhancing the livelihoods of small-scale farmers. Over 100 visitors had an opportunity to taste the flavours of Uganda’s Nyasaland Arabica Coffee.

During the engaging panel discussion, John Kiwagalo delved into the pivotal role played by Earth Markets in fostering agroecological markets. Earth Markets, as highlighted by Kiwagalo, serve as platforms for fostering innovation and implementing initiatives that prioritize the principles of sustainability and biodiversity protection. Kiwagalo’s insights shed light on the significance of Earth Markets in creating connections between producers and consumers, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and promoting agroecological practices for a more resilient food system.

Indigenous Food and Seed Fair

Slow Food Uganda was part of over 100 exhibitors who participated in the Annual Indigenous Food and Seed Fair that happened for 2 days, showcasing their commitment to promoting cultural and biological diversity. The event provided an excellent platform for Slow Food Uganda to exhibit their diverse range of initiatives, including exciting displays of the Slow Food Garden, Earth Market stalls, and seed banks, as well as highlighting the important work of the Cooks Alliance.

Dr. Paul Mwambu the Commissioner for Crop Inspection and Certification who represented the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries as the chief guest at the Indigenous Food and Seed Fair visited the Slow Food Uganda stand which further amplified the significance of the participation. During his visit, Slow Food Uganda emphasized the crucial role of supporting small-scale farmers in certifying their innovative practices. They stressed the need for policies that not only recognize and value the contributions of agroecological farmers but also provide them with the necessary support and resources to effectively utilize their innovations.

During the event, an array of indigenous seeds was showcased by dedicated farmers representing various Slow Food Communities. This exhibition not only provided a platform for farmers to display their valuable seed diversity but also facilitated seed exchanges among participants from different organizations. The collaborative spirit of the event allowed for the sharing of traditional seeds, ensuring their continued cultivation and protection.

Moreover, visitors were treated to a delightful gastronomic experience as members of the Cooks Alliance skilfully prepared a range of local dishes, showcasing the incredible diversity and flavours of the Uganda’s cuisine. From traditional delicacies to innovative culinary creations, the Cooks Alliance demonstrated the richness and versatility of local foods. Additionally, guests had the privilege of enjoying the renowned Nyasaland coffee, sourced from the Nyasaland Presidium, which further highlighted the exceptional quality and taste of Uganda’s coffee heritage.

The exhibition of indigenous seeds, food, artisanal materials, domesticated animals, poultry, clean energy technologies and locally made agroecological inputs coupled with the tasty offerings from the Cooks Alliance and the Nyasaland coffee, provided a memorable experience for visitors, fostering a deep appreciation for the cultural and culinary heritage of Uganda. This vibrant celebration of local food traditions and agricultural biodiversity showcased the vital role played by Slow Food Communities in promoting sustainable practices and preserving the unique flavours and traditions of Uganda.

In his opening remarks during the Food Fair, Edward Mukiibi, the president of Slow Food International and Vice Chairperson of PELUM Uganda emphasized the importance of local farmers’ initiatives in enhancing the protection of local food biodiversity. “Women, youth, indigenous peoples and men who are small scale farmers are the custodians of our biodiversity. These are the true people who are nourishing and feeding this country and no one should take this away from us.” Edward said. He added that biodiversity and culture are linked together and biological and cultural diversity is the foundation of every country’s food system.

Best Exhibitors’ Awards

Slow Food Uganda gained a well-deserved recognition by winning the prestigious award as the Best Exhibitor at the Annual Food and Seed Fair. This achievement did not only highlight Slow Food Uganda’s solid commitment to promoting biodiversity and supporting small-scale farmers but also underscored their significant contributions to fostering a more sustainable and inclusive food culture. Slow Food Uganda’s recognition as the best exhibitor in the Annual Food and Seed Fair serves as evidence to their significant impact in promoting sustainable food systems. The exceptional display at the fair captured the spirit of their mission, captivating visitors with a vibrant and diverse range of exhibits. The organization’s booth stood out through its thorough curation, showcasing indigenous seeds, traditional food varieties, and innovative farming practices. The passion and dedication of Slow Food Uganda members were clearly evident, as they shared their wealth of knowledge and engaged visitors in meaningful conversations about the importance of preserving local food heritage.

John Kiwagalo, Slow Food Uganda

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What is the purpose of Taiwan's Taitung County Government ito hold the "SLOW SUPER Taitung Slow Farmer Market"?

To promote sustainable agricultural development

It encourages a return to traditional cooking methods and the use of artisanal techniques, focusing on quality over quantity.

Title:

Content: Food Talk: The popularity of artisanal food hand crafted with love

Artisanal foods consist of products that are made by hand using traditional methods that involve home preservation or fermentation by skilled workers known as food artisans. These foods include fruit, grains, milk for cheese, meats, fish, oils and vinegars from farmers.

Lachmi Deb Roy March 04, 2023 16:20:40 IST

In recent years, the culinary landscape in India has witnessed a burgeoning interest in artisanal food. This trend has been driven by a growing consumer demand for authentic and unique dining experiences, where traditional cooking techniques and handpicked ingredients are valued over mass-produced foods. Artisanal food represents a return to the roots of cooking, where the focus is on quality over quantity and the celebration of the craft of cooking. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for something that is handmade, unique, and reflects the local culture and traditions.

Vijay Thapliyal, executive chef, The Lodhi, Delhi says, “At The Lodhi, we recognize the importance of authenticity and the value of traditional cooking methods. Our team of chefs are dedicated to incorporating artisanal techniques in our dishes, using the finest ingredients sourced from local farmers and markets. Committed to providing our guests with a truly unique dining experience that celebrates the diverse and rich culinary heritage of India. Our menu features a range of artisanal dishes, crafted with a fine touch, resulting in a flavour profile that is unmatched by mass-produced foods. Each dish is carefully crafted, with attention to detail and a passion for the craft of cooking.”

This concept of artisanal food is focusing on farm to fork foods that are locally produced that benefit the consumer, farmer and overall economy. It is usually produced on a small scale. Unlike mainstream and mass-produced products, artisanal products are unique. The products are made using traditional methods and tools. They are created according to a traditional recipe that has a rich history and that doesn’t come with preservatives, colorants, sweeteners, thickeners or other chemicals. They are made locally from traceable ingredients and establishing provenance is a key aspect of such products.

Artisanal foods have glided successfully into the Indian food scenario in the last few years and the pandemic has only enhanced this new trend. People now love a range of artisanal food like breads, cheeses, fruit preserves, cured meats, cold cuts, beverages, oils, and vinegar that are made by hand using traditional methods. The love for traditional food made from healthy ingredients and the avoidance of hormones and chemicals has made artisanal food very popular among consumers.

As celebrity chef Manu Chandra rightly says, “Artisanal food is one that done at a smaller scale, with a strong provenance and plenty of skill. It’s not limited to fancy foods and can be as basic as an achaar or chundo. I feel that people have taken to supporting and patronising small businesses in a very large way. E-commerce too has provided them with much needed exposure and logistical support to become more widely available.”

Different communities and families have different versions or recipes of similar ingredients. This is how the culture of cheeses or bread must have evolved which has a very different manifestation in an industrial scenario. The method of making a particular cheese will be very different in a village or community than the industrial counterpart and the end result may have very different qualities in terms of taste, aroma, texture and shelf life.

Artisanal products are most importantly seasonal and local and also labour intensive as the setup is always smaller compared to an industrial one. Going SLOW (seasonal and sustainable, local, organic and wholesome) is the mantra for now and should be forever.

Chef Ankur Gulati, executive chef, The Claridges, Delhi says, “Artisanal food and ingredients in India are becoming increasingly popular with changing consumer tastes and preferences. Our team at The Claridges is keeping pace with the changing trends. Consumers have shown a growing interest in high-quality, authentically sourced, and handmade food products and ingredients.”

Today, the Indian clientele is well-travelled and excited to explore culinary authenticity at its finest, which large-scale food productions fall short of. Bridging this gap has been an exciting journey for us, where the growing interest in gourmet ingredients and diverse flavour profiles has led culinary experts to innovate and reinterpret the means of traditional cooking.

Gulati adds, “We envision this trend to become the future of global cuisine in India. Our team of master chefs is dedicated to incorporating the finest and purest ingredients that take even the simplest of dishes to the next level. From sourcing gourmet cheeses, cured meats, seafood, infused oils, and handmade breads to different kinds of vinegars, salts, and olives, we believe that no detail is too little.  Our newly opened cafe sees to this with probiotic products like Kombuchas and a range of dairy-free preparations. Our passion for serving guests the finest cuisines stems from our personal mission to provide our customers with an unforgettable experience that elevates the senses and the soul.”

The health benefits of artisanal food products are many. They are a source of calcium, and protein, high in vitamins, can reverse hypertension by lowering blood pressure, provide essential healthy fat, help in building muscle, benefit the immune system and are good for thyroid health among others.  They are devoid of excessive sodium and preservatives and are a healthy alternative for consumers and create a perfectly balanced diet. They also recharge your body with associated nutrients like iron and zinc.

AnnaMaya, Andaz, Delhi’s upmarket hotel has been a pioneer in the philosophy of sustainable sourcing and mindful eating. With the motto of eat mindful, shop artisanal, raise awareness, AnnaMaya brings to life the stories of the humble artisans from across the country. Anum Ajani, Marketing Communications Manager, Andaz, Delhi believes that if mindful eating is the key then artisanal food choices should be a way of life.

Artisanal products are hygienically produced without the use of any artificial chemical add on. With no use of any harmful substances to nourish the soil, the produce is naturally tasty and full of nutrients. Ajani stats, “The idea is to share the wholesome goodness of organic farming on a small scale. AnnaMaya has been the forerunner in celebrating artisans and seasonal sourcing as well as local ingredients. The menu is designed around consciously sourced ingredients from local artisans who directly or indirectly contribute towards the well-being of society.”

Artisanal produces are slightly priced higher than mass-produced material and it is definitely better to pay for healthy, pure food than those that are packed with preservatives. Be it artisanal cheese, chocolate, jams or sauces, they are made with better, more conscientiously sourced ingredients.

Artisanal food negates the use of chemicals and preservatives. And most importantly living sustainably should be on everyone’s agenda as saving the planet has today become a necessity for the survival of the human race. And consuming locally made artisanal food is one of the easiest ways to reduce carbon emissions so are good for mother earth.

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What are the supporters of slow food movement advocating?

Enjoyment of good food
Conscious consumption

On returning to traditional food methods

What happened after the opening of McDonald's restaurants in Rome opened?

The movement has grown to include around 100,000 members in over 150 countries.

How many countries have members of Slow Food organization?

How many members does the Slow Food Movement have globally?

Current proponents of the Slow Food movement include Slow Food Uganda, which emphasizes the importance of local farmers and biodiversity.

How many countries have members of Slow Food organization?

The Causeway Coast and Glens in Northern Ireland is recognized as a Slow Food destination, promoting local suppliers and venues.

What is  the first accredited Slow Food destination in Northern Ireland?

To sample the best Slow Food cuisine, consider visiting regions known for their commitment to the movement, such as the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland or participating in Slow Food events and markets that highlight local and traditional foods.

What are the supporters of slow food movement advocating?

On returning to traditional food methods

What is  the first accredited Slow Food destination in Northern Ireland?

Additionally, exploring local farmers' markets and engaging with communities that prioritize Slow Food values can provide authentic experiences.

What are the supporters of slow food movement advocating?

Enjoyment of good food
Conscious consumption

On returning to traditional food methods


The perpetrators were never identified in these cases.

The individuals responsible for this act were not apprehended.

The act was part of a broader environmental activism movement, although specific individuals were not named.

This act was presumably a statement against perceived racial elements, although Andersen scholars noted no racist elements in the original fairy tale.

The incident occurred in the context of Denmark's criticism of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

The perpetrators were never identified in these cases.

Title:

Content: Russian Flag Painted on Copenhagen's Most Famous Landmark

It's the latest in a long line of attacks on Little Mermaid statue
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 2, 2023 10:15 AM CST

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, one of Denmark's most famous landmarks, has been vandalized yet again, this time with the Russian flag. Authorities said Thursday that the white, blue, and red stripes of the Russian flag were painted on the stone the statue sits on, Reuters reports. Police said the vandalism was discovered early Thursday. "We are of course launching an investigation to find out who did it and when and how it happened," a police spokesman said, per Jyllands-Posten.

Denmark, like other European nations, has strongly criticized Russia's war against Ukraine. The small statue, a tribute to the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, sits off a waterfront promenade in the Danish capital. It has been vandalized many times since it was installed 110 years ago, AFP reports. It has been decapitated twice and was knocked off its base with explosives in 2003. In 2017, it was doused in red paint in a protest against whale hunting. In 2020, during worldwide protests after the death of George Floyd, the words "racist fish" were painted on the base, though Andersen scholars said they weren't aware of any racist elements in the fairy tale. (Read more The Little Mermaid stories.)

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The individuals responsible for this act were not apprehended.

The act was part of a broader environmental activism movement, although specific individuals were not named.

This act was presumably a statement against perceived racial elements, although Andersen scholars noted no racist elements in the original fairy tale.

The incident occurred in the context of Denmark's criticism of Russia's actions in Ukraine.


A study on the "Mozart effect" and memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) found that listening to classical music in the background did not significantly improve learning levels.

The study, led by Marco Calabria, suggests that the impact of music on cognitive tasks may depend on individual differences, such as the use of music as an emotional regulator.

For instance, a study in France found that students who listened to music while reading scored higher on a questionnaire than those who did not.

This suggests that music can create a conducive learning environment by enhancing motivation and focus.

However, the type of music matters; classical music from the Baroque period, like Mozart's compositions, is often recommended for studying due to its potential to enhance brain activity.

It is essential to consider individual preferences and the specific context in which music is used to maximize its potential as a tool for cognitive enhancement.

A study on the "Mozart effect" and memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) found that listening to classical music in the background did not significantly improve learning levels.

Title:

Content: 4/25/23 · Research

The beneficial effects of music on memory may depend on how it is listened to

The initial results of the study of the 'Mozart effect' on neurodegeneration show that listening to classical music in the background has no benefits for learning
The research has been carried out with people experiencing mild cognitive impairment, and it did find individual differences when listening to 'high-arousal' music

Listening to 'high-arousal' music could have a positive effect on memory for people who are accustomed to using music as an emotional regulator (Image: Clem Onojeghuo, Unsplash)

Given the lack of effective treatments to counteract cognitive impairment, background music has traditionally been proposed as a possible therapeutic alternative for improving memory-related tasks. Its effect has long been the focus of debate, but this relationship has now been found to be possibly determined by new interindividual parameters, which means that it may be more complex than was previously thought. This is shown by research led by Marco Calabria, a researcher in the Cognitive Neurolab group of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), who is now considering new experiments.

The initial results of the Mozart effect and memory in patients with cognitive impairment (MEM-COG) study, funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, suggest that listening to background classical music while performing memory tasks neither improves nor impairs learning levels among people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, listening to more 'high-arousal' music was found to have a possible positive effect on people who are accustomed to using music as an emotional regulator in their everyday lives, which suggests there is potential for further hypotheses and research.

The study, which has been published as open access in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, was carried out with patients at the neuropsychology unit of Barcelona's Hospital de Sant Pau, and involved researchers at the hospital, Montreal's Concordia University and Madrid's Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute.

There is no universal effect

"We found no general impact concerning the effect of music in terms of whether it had positive or negative effects on learning in cases of MCI, but we did find that it would be modulated for each individual. If people regularly use music as an emotional regulator in their daily life, such as to help them remain calm or for company, they will find it easier to obtain further benefits from music when they have to learn something new," explained Calabria, who has a PhD in Psychobiology.

The subjects of the study were people with mild amnestic cognitive impairment, i.e. they have memory problems as a result of an onset of neurodegeneration that is more specific in the parts of the brain dealing with aspects of learning and memory. The experiments consisted of observing 24 photographs of human faces. Participants were instructed to memorize them, and 10 minutes later, they were asked to look at a new series containing the previous 24 images and 24 new ones, in order to attempt to identify the ones that they had already seen.

A classical choice

The first test was performed with the subjects listening to classical music in the information consolidation phase but not in the recovery phase, while in the second exercise it was repeated with the auditory stimulus during both phases. However, no significant differences were observed in terms of results.

Classical music was used in these exercises because "it's a type of music that falls between relaxing and arousing, and has proven to be the most effective for enhancing memory". Furthermore, the fact that it is instrumental reduces the interference (that can come from lyrics) with the content that the participants have to learn in the memory task.

A ray of light

However, Calabria's team wanted to carry out a third experiment using popular music which was considered arousing rather than relaxing, and after a preliminary study, they used an instrumental version of Un rayo de sol (A ray of light), by the group Los Diablos. In that experiment, according to Calabria, the results suggested that "the use of music as a strategy for mood regulation is associated with better performance in memory tasks."

Ongoing research

This finding opens up the possibility of further research to continue exploring the role of interindividual preferences and attitudes towards music among patients with MCI. The group plans to continue the project until late 2024.

During this time, it will investigate whether background music could be more useful in other cognitive domains, such as in attention and concentration in patients with Parkinson's disease. The experiments will also involve the use of a new infrared spectroscopy device in the Neuro Lab, one of the recently opened new laboratories at the UOC, which will show the activation at the cerebral level while cognitive processes are taking place. This will help to determine whether or not there are any alterations in the brain's modulation, in which areas this takes place, and whether it depends on the type of person studied, regardless of the level of response to music.

In overall terms, this will help to find a type of marker which determines the people most likely to benefit from music in cognitive tasks. "The more we know about how background music shapes cognitive processes, the better the use we can make of music as a therapeutic tool in cognitive stimulation," concluded Calabria, an expert in the study of cognitive processes and a member of teaching staff on the UOC's Master's Degree in Neuropsychology.

This research project receives funding from the Ministry of Science and Innovation of the Government of Spain, and contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 3, Good health and well-being.

Reference article:

Calabria, Marco et al. 'Background Music and Memory in Mild Cognitive Impairment: The Role of Interindividual Differences'. 1 Jan. 2023: 815 – 829. DOI: 10.3233/JAD-221051

Press contact

Sònia Armengou Casanovas
sarmengouc@uoc.edu
+34 619 413 823

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The UOC's research and innovation (R&I) is helping overcome pressing challenges faced by global societies in the 21st century by studying interactions between technology and human & social sciences with a specific focus on the network society, e-learning and e-health.

Over 500 researchers and more than 50 research groups work in the UOC's seven faculties, its eLearning Research programme and its two research centres: the Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) and the eHealth Center (eHC).

The university also develops online learning innovations at its eLearning Innovation Center (eLinC), as well as UOC community entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer via the Hubbik platform.

Open knowledge and the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development serve as strategic pillars for the UOC's teaching, research and innovation. More information: research.uoc.edu.

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The study, led by Marco Calabria, suggests that the impact of music on cognitive tasks may depend on individual differences, such as the use of music as an emotional regulator.

For instance, a study in France found that students who listened to music while reading scored higher on a questionnaire than those who did not.

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Inicio » English » Inspiration » The Sound of Success: Ideas in Music for Concentration and Productivity

The Sound of Success: Ideas in Music for Concentration and Productivity

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Does music help you concentrate? Since we spend a lot of time in front of computers trying to finish our work, wouldn’t it be nice to listen to some of music to help concentrate? Well, music lovers, it seems like Mozart and Beethoven could actually help you with your productivity. Beethoven once said: «Music is where the spirit lives, thinks and invents.»

This relationship between music and the brain is an area that has been intensively explored in research. Many studies point to the ability of music to help employees be more productive and help children in their learning process more effectively. University research in France found that students who listened to music for an hour while reading, scored significantly higher on a questionnaire compared to a group of students who read without music.

Your attention span is better when listening to music

It seems that music for concentration puts students in a heightened emotional state, so that they can be more receptive to information. «It is possible that music causes a change in the learning environment and influenced students’ motivation to stay focused while reading, which led to better performance on a multiple-choice questionnaire,» concluded the french research team in a recent article.

But before you start playing any type, you have to find the music that works better for the type of work you are trying to carry do. For example, the classic from the Baroque period is said to do wonders for brain activity when you are studying or writing. But not all classical music is created equal, so dramatic changes and complicated fugue changes may not be as conducive as a smooth piano piece. So if you have to choose a composer, we would say Mozart. There seems to be evidence that Mozart’s improves mental performance: it is called «The Mozart Effect”.

Build a harmonious space

If you don’t like classical, the discreet sound found in ambient music may work well for you instead. What is the purpose of this if you are not at the airport, you ask? Well, for creative purposes, it’s better than emptiness and silence. According to one of its pioneers, musician Brian Eno: “Background music must be able to accommodate many levels of attention when listening, without forcing one in particular. It must be as ignorable as it is interesting ”.

In fact, researchers have shown that a moderate level of noise, such as that found in the environment, can actually get creative juices flowing. Music with especially low-lows or especially high-highs should be avoided. Certain types of jazz instrumental melodies can also get your brain working.

Music without lyrics

In general, if you are doing work that requires writing, you should avoid listening to music with lyrics as the words in a song are especially destructive to your concentration. Since hearing words activates the brain’s language center, attempting to perform tasks related to another language would be like trying to have a conversation while someone else is speaking to you. But, if you are a cartoonist, and you don’t deal with sentence construction, hearing letters may not have the same effect.

Finally, studies show that listening to music you’re already familiar with may be better if you really need to focus. New songs take you into the unknown and your brain will want to listen closely to see what comes next. With the music you are familiar with you know what to expect, so it doesn’t distract you from your work. And if you like the tune you’re listening to try not to whistle it while you work, as that will only distract you.

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This suggests that music can create a conducive learning environment by enhancing motivation and focus.

However, the type of music matters; classical music from the Baroque period, like Mozart's compositions, is often recommended for studying due to its potential to enhance brain activity.

It is essential to consider individual preferences and the specific context in which music is used to maximize its potential as a tool for cognitive enhancement.