In a sign of further political and cultural glasnost, Saudi Arabia allows its first public performance of classical music before a mixed-gender audience …
- A First for Saudis: Mozart Performed for Both Genders (Associated Press/Washington Post)
… while Malaysia contemplates a step backwards:
- Malaysia Angers Women with Travel-restriction Idea (Washington Post)
Turkish Muslim schools teach modern curriculum in the class, but Islam “in lifestyle and prayer†to provide students with an education making them competitive on the job market without losing their religious identity:
- Turkish Schools Offer Pakistan a Gentler Vision of Islam (New York Times)
Local media development NGO finds physical violence has directly affected over 700 journalists in Pakistan…
- Worst Year for Media in Pakistan (AFP/Peninsular Qatar)
…meanwhile Arab media companies feel the heat from Arab states seeking to tighten their grip on the content of broadcasts:
- Arab TV Feels the Pinch of New Broadcast Limits (Christian Science Monitor)
Former peace negotiation experts involved in N. Ireland talks head to the Philippines to jump start talks between the government and Muslim separatists:
- British Experts to Help Manila Peace Talks (AFP/Peninsular Qatar)
The leaning minaret of Jam, despite being one of Afghanistan’s defining historical symbols is threatened by “conflict, looting and neglectâ€:
- Hidden Jewel of Afghan Culture (BBC News)
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