Nobel Peace Prize message

A ray of hope brought forward Iranian pro-reform activist Shirin Ebadi as the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and if that doesn't send a strong message to the Muslim and Arab world then perhaps nothing will.

The supporters of sharia law would do well to reflect on how the rest of the world recognizes the bravery of a Muslim woman who has continuously struggled for women's rights in, would you believe, the 21st century, after men have almost had an eternity to sort out such basics.

The award was more than justified, but how sad that it had to be awarded to someone who is almost an outcast in many Iranian circles simply because she believes in something that the rest of the world takes for granted. There must be some feeling of guilt within Iran and perhaps other Muslim countries that treat their women badly, as this award clearly indicates a great divide between civilizations, religions and views on humanity.

DAVID WALLIS
Medan, North Sumatra