Society

Ritual Islamic Food Production

"The Halal Trend Is Unstoppable"

The ritual slaughter of animals for religious reasons is basically permitted in Germany, although management of the practice is complicated and controversial. But the enormous potential of and demand for 'halal' foodstuffs here in Germany is leading to an increase in production. Daniela Schröder has researched the issue
Hans Christian Schmid's "Storm"

The Truth Is a Matter of Negotiation

The UN International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in The Hague has been occupied since 1993 with the war crimes committed during the Yugoslav Wars. Hans-Christian Schmid has now made a film showing how the West also places political decisions over individual's lives. André Tucic investigates
Iraqi Gay Refugees

A Temporary Haven in Lebanon

A campaign of murder, intimidation and torture is driving many of Iraq's gay men to join the millions of their compatriots who have fled to other countries in the region. Those of them that make it to Lebanon, while still facing an uncertain future, have the benefit of a relatively tolerant society. Austin Mackell reports from Beirut
Interview with Joumana Haddad

"Eroticism is the Pulse of Life"

With her erotic cultural magazine "Jasad" ("Body"), Lebanese poet and journalist Joumana Haddad deliberately breaks taboos in a society that likes to draw a veil over the human body – both literally and figuratively. Susanne Schanda spoke with the woman behind the magazine
Iraq's National Museum Reopens

Only Photos on View of the Nimrud Treasures

The National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad reopened a few weeks ago – prematurely, say critics. Inadequate security systems jeopardise the legacy of Mesopotamia and Babylonia, reports Birgit Svensson from Baghdad
Interview with Winfried Verburg

A Place of Learning for All Religions

The Diocese of Osnabrück is organising an inter-faith school project that is unique in Germany. In co-operation with the Jewish community and Muslim organisations, the diocese is planning to open a primary school for children of the three Abrahamic religions. Eren Güvercin discussed the project with Winfried Verburg, director of the Education Department of the Episcopal Vicariate Osnabrück
Interview with Thomas Eich

An Islamic Debate on Bioethics within the Framework of Sharia

Bioethical issues are hotly discussed in Islamic countries. According to the Islam scholar Thomas Eich, the limits to medical intervention usually lie where it can result in harm to society or interference in God's creation. He spoke with Sarah Zada
Max Baron of Oppenheim

An Encyclopedic Travelogue Free from the Arrogance of the Time

As diplomat and explorer, Max Baron of Oppenheim's knowledge of the Orient was exceptional for the time. His interest in the Arab world was unique as well in that it was free from condescension. A portrait by Andreas Pflitsch
By Andreas Pflitsch
Mohamed Talbi

''Religious Dogmas Terrorize the Spirit''

The Tunisian intellectual Mohamed Talbi is regarded as one of the most critical leading thinkers in the Arab world. In his most recently published book, he denounces traditional Islamic religious scholars and argues for a contemporary reading of the Koran. Rachid Boutayeb introduces Mohamed Talbi
By Rachid Boutayeb
Lebanon

One Woman's Fight to Preserve Beirut's Architectural Heritage

During the reconstruction phase that followed the Lebanese civil war, many important buildings were torn down. Conservationists were, however, able to save a number of individual structures. One of the most important of these buildings is the so-called "Yellow House". Martina Sabra reports
The Arab Music Channel 4Shbab

Music for the Young That Is Pleasing to God

4Shbab, the first commercial Islamic music channel in the Arab world, has set itself the task of providing young people with information and entertainment that are in line with Islamic values. Amira El Ahl visited the broadcaster in Cairo to find out more
Refugees in Pakistan

Incapable Government

Pakistan has to cope with more refugees and internally displaced persons than any member of the European Union. State authorities have proven unable to support them adequately. Popular suffering, however, compounds the Islamist militancy that is threatening the country's security. Mohammad Ali Khan reports from Peshawar