Secularism
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23 September 2011Le Monde Paris
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THE 10 DAYS OF EUROPE | 2
Saddle those horses
25 December 20102Presseurop -
Secularism
For the free movement of gods
13 August 20102Die Zeit Hamburg -
Poland
Warsaw’s cross row
10 August 2010PresseuropGazeta Wyborcza -
Religion
Is Islam good for Europe?
2 December 20091El Mundo Madrid -
25 August 2009La Repubblica Rome
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Integration
Battle of the burka
25 June 200911Presseurop
On 31 March, the Indian Ocean island of Mayotte became the 101st department of France. For most of the local population, which is 90% Muslim, there is no conflict of interest between their religion and the principle of secularity much cherished by the French state. Le Monde reports. 
Given the political, social and religious confusion that plagues Europe, Spanish philosopher Fernando Savater pleads for a new spirit of openness to talents, ideas and creeds. 
Confronted by a multiplicity of religions and their symbols, most states choose to forbid them. But in doing so, they are heading toward an impasse, claims Die Zeit while pleading for tolerance and pluralism. 
The Swiss referendum on minarets has re-ignited the debate about Islam in Europe. While Muslim philosopher Tariq Ramadan stresses Muslims’ cultural contributions to Europe, journalist Arcadi Espada argues that religion is not a desirable calling card in Europe. 
With moves to ban kebab shops, burkinis, and public prayers, town councils throughout Italy are increasingly resorting to measures that are perceived as discriminatory by Muslims, who are now beginning to respond with court actions. 
Whether it's the burka in France, or the niqab or headscarf in Belgium, the debate about whether to ban certain Islamic forms of dress is back on the European agenda. The European press has been weighing up the issue at a national level about the need to legislate or not.