Stories about Religion from April, 2023
Human trafficking, forced labor and exploitation of migrants in Russia
Russian authorities trafficked people for illegal actions that they were forced to commit while being trafficked, such as prostitution, illegal presence in the country or drug trafficking. Many are deported.
At home, in a presidential palace, and a mosque: Where Central Asian presidents hosted iftar in 2023
Where they are held, who attends them, and what words are spoken at these events can help better understand Central Asia and its people.
End of Ramadan in Taipei shows role of Islam in Taiwan's diplomacy
Though it only makes up about one percent of the population, Taiwan's Muslim community represents an asset for greater visibility and engagement with the Middle East, where China dominates.
Azerbaijan-Iran tensions escalate
The tensions have been simmering since January 2023, after a gunman stormed the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran, killing the security chief and wounding two guards in the embassy.
Russian decolonisation and Eurasia: An imperial legacy? Risks and opportunities for Tatarstan
Public attention to political and economic inequality in Russia’s regions, stirred by the debate on decolonisation, represents a welcome and much-needed development
Snapshots of Ramadan: Capturing a few spiritual and communal moments
Ramadan is a highly celebrated occasion in the Islamic world, as it provides a unique opportunity for communities to come together to break the fast, socialize and give to charity.
The jeweller who made Stations of the Cross for a heritage church in Trinidad hopes they continue to make an impact
Jeweller Gillian Bishop worked in copper and brass to make a distinctive design for her childhood church.
Mongolians celebrate and fear for an 8-year old boy as Dalai Lama names him their next spiritual leader
Mongolia has got not only a spiritual leader but a powerful trump card with which it can influence relations between Tibet and China.
Pakistan's recent Wikipedia ban sparks controversy over blasphemy laws and freedom of speech
The Pakistani government has repeatedly enforced several restrictions on accessing certain websites and online material, often citing reasons such as national security, blasphemy laws, and moral principles.
