Society

Integration in Germany

Better Than Its Reputation

The German media likes to portray people with a migration background as school failures, petty criminals, welfare recipients or Islamists. A new report gives integration in Germany a surprisingly good report card. By Holger Moos
Sufism in Jordan

A Prism of Spirituality

In Jordan, Sufism is currently gaining ground, even attracting a wave of foreign seekers, both converts and those of Muslim heritage. Michael Gunn encountered various interpretations of what Sufism is or can be
Forced and Arranged Marriages

Between Elucidation and Scandalising Distortion

Filiz Sütcü has carried out academic research into the subject of forced and arranged marriages. She criticises the media's sensational treatment of the issue and explains that public debate is usually more about cultural and religious defamation
Afghan Refugees in Tajikistan

Transit to Peace

Although Tajikistan is one of the poorest countries in the world, it is the country of choice for many Afghan refugees. Many hope that it will be their first stop on the way to Europe or the USA. By Edda Schlager
The Tunisian Islamic Scholar and Activist Tahar Haddad

A Rebel Loyal to the Koran

At the beginning of the 20th century, Tahar Haddad advocated a modern interpretation of the Koran. Only after his death did his work find resonance in Tunisian society. Martina Sabra reports
Bloggers in the Arab World

Playing with Fire

In the Arab world, as elsewhere, the Internet opens up new freedoms and opportunities for democracy. However, it also gives rise to opposition from the authorities. Anyone active on the Internet lives dangerously. By Amira al-Ahl
The Babri Mosque Controversy in India

Sacred Ground for Muslims and Hindus

For centuries, Hindus have claimed the Babri Mosque as the birthplace of their god Ram. Now a court has ruled that the site can be used by both Hindus and Muslims. By Qurratulain Zaman
Islamic Cultural Centre in Warsaw

Building Religious "Bridges" in Poland

An Islamic cultural centre is being built in Warsaw, next to the city's new mosque. Its construction initially sparked protests, but now some are hoping it could be a sign of integration for Muslims. By Rafal Kiepuszewski
The Egyptian Dominican Priest Georges Anawati

A Christian and Islamic Scholar in the Service of Dialogue

Georges Anawati, an advocate of Christian-Islamic understanding, could finally receive the attention he deserves thanks to the Anawati Foundation and his biography. By Martina Sabra
Joint History School Book for Israelis and Palestinians

Difficult Times for a Visionary Project

A history book that tried to be fair to both sides in the Middle East conflict has had trouble gaining the approval of either side, says Joseph Croitoru
Interview with Amr Khaled

A Call for Muslims in the West to Serve Their Societies

Amr Khaled is one the best-known TV preachers of the Arab world, reaching millions of mostly young Muslims. In an interview he talks about the role faith and activism can play for Muslims' integration into Western societies
Afghan Refugees in Iran

The Lowest of the Low

Afghans in Iran constitute one of the largest refugee populations in the world. It was recently reported that thousands have been executed. Iran and Afghanistan are arguing about this. By Iason Athanasiadis