Freedom of Expression Debates in Europe and the Muslim World after 9/11 discusses freedom of expression debates as it relates to Islam that emerged in Europe after 9/11 and subsequent Muslim reaction. The major controversies covered are the Jyllands-Posten (2005) cartoons in Denmark, the Charlie Hebdo caricatures and the attacks on its offices in 2015 in France, as well as Dutch film controversy of 2008 are analyzed at length. Socio-political conditions in respective countries in relation to Muslims are also taken into account along with detailed description of the background of each controversy. The Western concept of freedom of expression and religion is examined both theoretically and in light of relevant laws at domestic, regional and international levels. Minor controversies regarding freedom of Muslim expression in different European countries are also surveyed with reactions of international human rights organizations. The Laws governing freedom of expression, freedom of religion and blasphemy in major European and Muslim countries are also given space. The book tries to find the answer to a burning question: i.e., what is freedom of expression and what are its limitations? In search of the answer, the book tries to encompass all relevant aspects of the debate both from the West in general, Europe in particular, and the Muslim World.
Haris bin Aziz is postdoctoral visiting fellow at the Department of International History, London School of Economics and Political Science.
Introduction Chapter 1. Controversies Regarding Freedom of Expression and Muslims in Europe Chapter 2. Freedom of Expression and Its Limitations in Europe Chapter 3. Muslims and the Freedom of Religion in Europe Chapter 4. The Debate Outside Europe and Muslim Response Chapter 5. Freedom of Expression and Religion in the Muslim World Conclusion
I read a draft of Haris bin Aziz's book, Freedom of Expression Debates in Europe and the Muslim World after 9/11, learnt from it and found it very valuable. -- Sir Richard Sorabji, Wolfson College, Oxford "Beyond the clash of civilization thesis in the broader context of 9/11, Haris bin Aziz's study Freedom of Expression Debates in Europe and the Muslim World after 9/11, locates common perspectives in the projected differences between the Muslim and the western world. A must read for those who envision a shared world through a thoughtful search for the common ground in the intellectual traditions between Islam and the West." -- Mohammad Talib, University of Oxford
