Society

Islam and business

Diyanet – Turkey's religious authority that makes millions

Turkey's highest religious authority brings in huge profits, say experts. But as a historic brewery in Istanbul faces demolition, critics argue that such profiteering is not in line with Islam. By Aram Ekin Duran
By Aram Ekin Duran
Jewish-Muslim dialogue

Rabbis and imams together

In an innovative move for both religions, European Jews and Muslims have committed to standing up in solidarity more often. The aim is to combat the resurgence of right-wing extremists in Europe. By Christoph Strack
By Christoph Strack
Violence against journalists increasing

Press freedom under fire in Turkey

Journalist Levent Uysal recently survived a treacherous assassination attempt. Despite the fact that members of the press are increasingly at risk in Turkey, the government seems loath to protect them. Deger Akal has the details
By Deger Akal
The Arter, art and gentrification

Modern art makeover in Istanbul?

A new modern art museum recently opened its doors at the heart of Istanbul's working-class Dolapdere neighbourhood. An opportunity for this culturally diverse quarter or a threat in an area recognised as a social flashpoint? Ulrich von Schwerin reports on the relationship between art, commerce and gentrification on the Bosphorus
By Ulrich von Schwerin
Conflict in the Gulf

Covering Yemen's forgotten war

Journalists have been largely barred from Yemen. After a year of trying, DW correspondent Fanny Facsar was granted a visa. On her journey, she witnessed a deeply torn country devastated by a conflict that has been all but forgotten
By Fanny Facsar
Rawalpindi's Murree brewery

Beer and whisky made in Pakistan

To many the name of Pakistan calls up images of Islamic extremism, religious intolerance, state corruption and the long years of terror. It’s probably safe to say that single malt whisky, half a dozen brands of beer and a 120-year-old brewing tradition are unlikely to be near the top of anyone’s word association list. By Philipp Breu
By Philipp Breu
Abrahamic Teams in the MENA

Interfaith dialogue – a painstaking process

The declared goal of the Abrahamic Teams is to improve how Jews, Christians and Muslims interact with and live alongside each other. The project, which originates in Germany, is now being implemented in Israel, Egypt and Morocco too. But, as Claudia Mende found out, interfaith dialogue does not progress quickly
By Claudia Mende
Interview with Iraqi expert Saad Salloum

Celebrating religious diversity in Iraq

Dedicated to preserving Iraq's diversity, which he considers the country's real capital, Saad Salloum has launched a new institute to combat hate speech and change the Islamic religious discourse. Interview by Gilgamesh Nabeel
By Gilgamesh Nabeel
Schools in Turkey

Erdogan's youth, religious but not educated?

The Turkish school system is in crisis: pupil performance is slipping. Critics blame the Erdogan government for the trend, which has recently founded hundreds of Imam Hatip religious schools. Information from Burcu Karakas and Daniel Derya Bellut
By Burcu Karakaş, Daniel Derya Bellut
Modi and the revocation of Article 370

Kashmirʹs tormented quest for freedom

Since India scrapped its special status, tensions in Kashmir are rising once again. The conflict over the valley has defined the lives of Kashmiris for decades. Marian Brehmer reports from Kashmir
By Marian Brehmer
Religions for Peace World Assembly

Women push for gender equality in Lindau

At this year's global religion summit on Lake Constance, female delegates from Africa, Asia and the Middle East made clear women must have a greater say. By Christoph Strack
By Christoph Strack
Interreligious dialogue

Like a UN General Assembly of religions

The Religions for Peace 10th World Assembly is the biggest meeting of religions taking place this year. Representatives of religious communities from 100 countries are currently meeting in the German town of Lindau at Lake Constance. The symbolism is huge. But the expectations are possibly even greater. By Christoph Strack
By Christoph Strack