Politics

Saudi Arabia

When a tweet gets you 34 years in prison

The ruling is part of an ongoing clampdown on dissent and minorities in the kingdom. But so far, it's unlikely to have an effect on the kingdom's newly polished image as a global oil provider in times of crisis. Jennifer Holleis reports
By Jennifer Holleis
The Holocaust, colonialism and mutual understanding

Time for a refresher in humanity

It is possible to write about the Holocaust and the crimes of colonial powers without downplaying anything. In her latest book, Charlotte Wiedemann focuses on the numerous blind spots in our culture of commemoration. By Rene Wildangel
By René Wildangel
Indian democracy at 75

Narendra Modi’s damaging dominance

In office for more than eight years, Narendra Modi’s high popularity across India and formidable electoral clout make him nearly invincible. But, while his success in amassing political power is unquestionable, his ability to use it for the benefit of the vast majority of citizens remains very much in doubt. By Shashi Tharoor
By Shashi Tharoor
Pakistan turns 75

Islamabad has serious issues

Seventy-five years ago, Pakistan emerged, along with India, from the British Raj. A country with potential – were it not for the ongoing tensions with India and many home-grown economic problems. Haroon Janjua reports from Islamabad
By Haroon Janjua
The Islamic Republic and Putin's war

Iran's sacred mission in Ukraine?

Since Ali Khamenei, Iran's most powerful man, has openly and unconditionally come out in support of Putin's war in Ukraine, logistical help is on its way, with an allegedly civilian airline playing a key role. By Ali Sadrzadeh
By Ali Sadrzadeh
Data centre plans in Saudi Arabia

Google puts Saudi activists in danger

Internet giant Google is creating a "cloud region" in Saudi Arabia. It says it will protect users there. But digital rights activists say the firm will be putting the lives of government critics at risk. Cathrin Schaer reports
By Cathrin Schaer
Afghanistan

One year on, Taliban torn over reforms

One year on from the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, some cracks are opening within their ranks over the crucial question of just how much reform their leaders can tolerate.
"The Kashmir Files"

Serving up Indian propaganda

The highly controversial Indian blockbuster "The Kashmir Files“, on the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus in the 1990s, is characterised by unilateral representations, negative stereotypes and historical inaccuracies. By Dominik Muller
By Dominik Müller
Human rights in Egypt

Egyptian activist Sanaa Seif "disappointed with German politicians"

Sanaa Seif, sister of Alaa Abd El-Fattah, one of Egypt's best-known dissidents, visited Berlin recently. She spoke to Cathrin Schaer about her brother's hunger strike and Europe's double standards on Ukraine and the Middle East
By Cathrin Schaer
Constitutional referendum in Tunisia

What next for the birthplace of the Arab Spring?

According to Tunisia's electoral board, 94.6 percent of valid votes cast in Monday's constitutional referendum were in favour of President Kais Saied's constitution. Turnout was, however, low at only 30.5 per cent. What will the future hold for the North African nation where the Arab Spring began over a decade ago?
Biden's trip to Saudi Arabia

Trading recognition for oil

With his fist bump greeting for a man he previously called a pariah, US President Biden has paved the way for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's return to the international stage. All other items on the agenda of his Middle East trip faded into the background. By Karim El-Gawhary
By Karim El-Gawhary
Referendum on a new constitution for Tunisia

Rolling back the achievements of the revolution

Tunisians are set to vote on a new constitution on 25 July. The prominent lawyer and women's rights activist Yosra Frawes fears the referendum could facilitate a return to dictatorship. This would also endanger progress on women's rights achieved since 2011. Interview by Claudia Mende for qantara.de
By Claudia Mende