How one word can divide a nation

In Malaysia, the word 'Allah' is causing controversy. In the predominantly Muslim country, Christians are being told that using Allah for their god is not acceptable...even though Christian bibles in Malay Language have been using it for years. Many Muslims believe the term is synonymous with Islam and its use in other religions is offensive. Now tensions between the two groups have turned violent.

FOCUS

AFGHANISTAN

The fight against opium

Opium and heroin trafficking in Afghanistan is a considerable source of revenue for the Taliban, but they are not the only ones who profit from it. In the meantime, the United States have radically changed their strategy in the war on drugs...

20/08/2009 - AFGHANISTAN

Far from the bombs and the ballots, refugees look for a home

While Afghans back home vote in an election marred by violence, thousands of refugees are looking for asylum abroad. Here in a Paris park, Afghans refugees have joined Iranians and Kurds in setting up a makeshift camp.

IRAQ

Carnage on the streets of Baghdad

The recent spate of deadly bomb attacks across Baghdad is seen in some quarters as an attempt to destabilise the government and undermine confidence in its ability to provide security. The attacks were the worst seen in the capital for months.

INDONESIA

Afghan refugees' fraught route to Australia

Afghans account for the vast majority of the 1,600 asylum seekers presently in Indonesia. They are hoping to reach Australia, but for many the journey is riddled with obstacles.

FRANCE

Is the French prison system broken?

According to officials, 80 inmates have committed suicide in French prisons in 2009. Dr Louis Albrand is leading a group of experts to look into the matter. Their report is expected in October.

React to the article

(1) Reaction

They are extremists

by Anonyme - 28/02/2010 - 21:35

However we have extremists in Egypt,but they did not reach this level of extremism.We all Egyptians-Muslims and Christians say Allah without any problems.No-one can claim the ownership of that word.Allah guides all.