Qantara.de - Dialog mit der islamischen Welt

Atheism remains one of the most extreme taboos in Saudi Arabia. It is a red line that no one may cross. Regarded on a par with terrorists, atheists in Saudi Arabia suffer imprisonment, marginalisation, slander, ostracisation and even execution. Efforts at normalisation between those who believe and those who don′t remain bleak. By Hakim KhatibMore

Politically outspoken rappers risk reprisals from the Egyptian state. Some have already been intimidated while others continue to push the boundaries of censorship with their music. Mat Nashed reports from AlexandriaMore

The outright militarisation of the security apparatus has infected more and more sectors of Bahraini society. In fact, it's now even been written into the country′s constitution. Report by Husain AbdullaMore

Rather than acting as a counterweight to the ruling class, the press across the Arab world serves the interests of oligarchs, despots and governments, says Hazem Saghieh. In interview with Kai Schnier, the Lebanese author and journalist explains why he censors himself and why he believes that journalism from Rabat to Riyadh will never be a catalyst for political changeMore

While heightened political tensions between Turkey and Europe grab the world's attention, an exhibition at Berlin's Schwules Museum refreshingly highlights the gay community's links to Istanbul. Report by Jan Tomes More

Tunisian singer-songwriter Emel Mathlouthi first shot to fame with her hit "Kelmtil Horra", which was adopted as the unofficial anthem of the Arab Spring. With her latest offering, ″Ensen″, Emel has produced the perfect album for our times. By Richard Marcus

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An annual event shows what the Iraqi people want most of all: peace. Young people in Baghdad organise a major street carnival to set positive images against the daily news of violence and war. The event has also given rise to regular participation in civil society. By Eva-Maria Verfurth and Qayssar AlwardiiMore