Society

Iraqi Christian Refugees

Finding a Safe Haven in Damascus

The history of Christianity in Iraq dates back to the first century AD, but since the outbreak of sectarian violence following 2003, many Christians are fleeing their homeland and finding sanctuary in Syria. By Stephen Starr
Interview with Jonathan Benthall

"Islamic Charity Organizations Are a Powerful Force for Integration"

Islamic charity organizations have increasingly been accused of channelling funds for terrorist activities. If used properly, Islamic charity traditions like 'zakat' and 'awqaf' are also a potential socio-economic development factor, says Jonathan Benthall
Interview with Franz Magnis-Suseno

"Freedom of Religion Must Also Apply to Minorities"

Franz Magnis-Suseno is a German-born Jesuit Priest and professor of philosophy in Indonesia. In this interview with Anett Keller, the naturalised Indonesian citizen talks about Indonesia's anti-pornography law, religious tolerance, and the definition of blasphemy
Muslim Tennis Player Aravane Rezai

Against All Odds

French woman Aravane Rezai is the daughter of Iranian immigrants. Rezai, the best Muslim tennis player on the WTA circuit and one of the favourites for the French Open title, has found a way to accommodate both her Western and Iranian roots. Wolfgang Scheffer reports
Neil MacFarquhar's Unusual Perspectives on the Middle East

Birthday Greetings from Hizbollah

The popular adage that the most concise book title is also the most attention grabbing isn't always true. A title like "The Media Relations Department of Hizbollah Wishes You a Happy Birthday" is guaranteed to excite the interest of readers following events in the Middle East. A review by Angela Schader
Second German Islam Conference

Without Alternative

The continuation of the German Islam Conference is worthwhile, says Loay Mudhoon. The public row over those attending and the new orientation of the second session of the conference must not be allowed to overshadow the meeting's success up to this point in advancing Muslim integration in Germany, he argues
Smoking Ban in Syria

Smoke-free Zone

Whether it be water pipes or cigarettes, smoking in public spaces is now banned in Syria – an astounding development for the country and a first for an Arab state. Alfred Hackensberger has the details
Interview with Mouhanad Khorchide

"For Me, It's a Question of Finding a Contemporary Interpretation of Islam"

Mouhanad Khorchide, originally from Lebanon, has been appointed Professor of Islamic Religious Education Theory at the University of Münster, where he will take over from Sven Kalisch, a controversial figure in Muslim circles. Kersten Knipp interviewed the theologian
The Niqab in Germany

An Unusual Perspective

What is it like to live as a woman who covers her face with a veil in Germany? How do people on the street react? Chamselassil Ayari wore a Muslim full-body covering garment for one day.
Debate about Integration in Germany

The Nation State and Its Immigrants

The immigration debate is emotionally charged. Nevertheless, there is no place for sensitivities of this kind during discussions and debates. If the Germans want to embrace those who have immigrated to their country, they have to get more involved in the debate – and in an open and self-critical manner. An essay by Zafer Senocak
Interview with Aatish Taseer

A Personal Quest for an Understanding of Modern Islam

Aatish Taseer is a British writer and journalist of British-Indian origin. In this interview with Richard Marcus, he talks about Islamic identity, the ailments of the Islamic world, and his most recent book, the highly acclaimed 'Stranger to History: A Son's Journey through Islamic Lands'
Mohammed Abed al-Jabri

Pioneering Figure in a New Arab Enlightenment

The Moroccan philosopher Mohammed Abed Al-Jabri has died at the age of 76. His death robs the Arab world of one of its most influential critical voices in the debate over identity, history and politics. An obituary by Sonja Hegasy