Qantara.de - Dialog mit der islamischen Welt

Despite being India′s largest minority, the Muslim community is marginalised both economically and politically. Although Muslims are frequently targeted in acts of communal violence, the government and the population at large generally associate Islam with terrorism. Ghazala Jamil examines the quest of Indian Muslims for genuine participation and representationMore

In the wake of the Paris attacks, the question is how such an outbreak of hate and violence could have happened in France. French crime novelist Karim Miske described life in the desolate banlieues of Paris in his novel ″Arab Jazz″. In interview with Claudia Mende he advises against simplistic answers and talks about the difficulties French society has in accepting its immigrants, who feel more French than ArabMore

The political situation between their home countries may be tense, but that hasn't stopped an Iranian and an Israeli band from jamming together. Now the musicians are joining forces to tour Germany. By Heike MundMore

Counter-terrorism and security legislation already in place, the British government recently published details of its controversial counter-extremism strategy. Vague enough to allow a wide range of interpretations, it was met with alarm by a number of interest groups. With the Paris attacks fresh in everyone’s minds, however, Cameron’s drive against Islamist ideology could well find increasing support among public and politicians alike. By Susannah TarbushMore

These days young Muslims are increasingly seeking answers to their everyday faith queries online rather than in the mosque. The Berlin association ufuq.de recently launched a project called ″Was postest Du? Politische Bildung mit jungen Musliminnen und Muslimen online″, aimed at stimulating debate among the younger generation and suggesting alternative means of social interaction. A report by Götz NordbruchMore

Showcasing a rich diversity of West African music traditions, ″Lost in Mali″ plunges the listener into a world apart. Incidental audio footage of street sounds and children playing enhances the ″on-location″ feel. Richard Marcus reviews the albumMore

While in the mass media, the war of images with and over Islamic State is making headlines, very little attention has been paid to the visual art being created in the region. To get an idea of the diversity of artistic production in the Arab world and the Middle East, head to this year′s international Venice Biennale. Felix Koltermann was in the city on the lagoon, and introduces the most exciting national contributions and artistic installations from the regionMore