How do we bring FGM to an end in Britain?

FGM originates in cultural rather than religious values and traditions, although justifications given for it vary across regions and cultures. Despite commonly being associated with Islam, there are a large number of Islamic countries, including Morocco, Algeria, Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia, where it is not practiced. This does not mean that religion has no influence….

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Eric Pickles writes a letter to 1,000 imams to promote ‘Muslim British Identity’ sparks criticism

A new row has erupted between the British government and Muslim organisations after the minister responsible for community cohesion wrote to hundreds of imams calling on them to do more to tackle violent extremism and demonstrate “how faith in Islam can be part of British identity”. The letter, sent by Eric Pickles, the secretary of…

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Dutch cabinet presents plan to combat forced marriage, honor killings, and homophobia

The Dutch cabinet recently presented an Action Plan for Self-determination. The cabinet will provide a yearly one million euros until 2017 to combat forced marriages, homophobia and violence related to honor. More than 150 specially trained volunteers will be supported to bring these taboo themes up for discussion among their own communities. Additionally a social…

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Muslims of Créteil: whoever harms a Jew will face the Prophet

After a Jewish couple was attacked by three young Muslims in Créteil, the Muslim community condemned “a shameful act that is contrary to Islam,” and hoped both communities could live together in harmony. While the local mosque’s imam did not bring up the recent attack at Friday prayer, it was on the minds of many…

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Mobilizing German Muslims against extremism

Minister of Integration, Bilkay Öney, emphasized on the role of Muslims communities in combatting radical Islamism. Arguing that Islamic extremism being not only a general threat to the German society but also a threat to the security of Muslims, Islamic organizations and communities should take adequate measures as well as support state authorities.

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