deBuren

The debate on Islam is everywhere in today's society. In the much-discussed study Dynamiek in islamitisch activisme (Dynamics in Muslim Activism), the Wetenschappelijke Raad voor het Regeringsbeleid (WRR, Scientific Government Policy Council) analysed the developments in Muslim thought, political activism, society and law since the seventies. The study caused a great deal of controversy in the Netherlands. For instance, the WRR states that we must not a priori exclude Muslim activists as potential discussion partners regarding foreign policy.

Should Europe indeed encourage the process of democratisation in the Muslim world with a strong policy? Does the recognition of new democratic - albeit religiously inspired? discussion partners not jeopardize our relations with our neighbours?

At a closed meeting at deBuren, the WRR will present and explain its findings to interested Flemish and European politicians and to the press. In a public debate in the evening, featuring among others Zomergasten host Joris Luyendijk and Tarik Fraïhi, the findings and recommendations of the WRR will be further discussed. Rob Heirbaut (VRT journalist) will be moderating.