Pope Francis Advocates Limits on Freedom of Speech and Expression

Weighing in on the debate over freedom of speech and expression, Pope Francis said anyone that insults religion could expect “a punch in the nose.”

Indian Author Perumal Murugan Stops Writing After Hindutva Protests

Perumal Murugan, an acclaimed novelist in India, announced the death of his creative artistry after receiving threats from right wing Hindu groups.

Saudi King Halts Flogging of Raif Badawi, Refers Case to Supreme Court

Blogger Raif Badawi, who was sentenced to 1,000 lashes for insulting Islam, found a new ray of hope after the late King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia intervened.

French Premier Manuel Valls Declares War on Radical Islam

As people protested against the Charlie Hebdo killings and rallied for freedom of speech, French premier Manuel Valls declared war on radical Islam.

Global Religious Hostilities on the Rise

The year 2012 saw a six-year high in religious hostility.

German Newspaper That Reprinted Charlie Hebdo Cartoons Firebombed

Less than a week after the Charlie Hebdo attack claimed 12 lives, a German paper fell victim to arson for printing the controversial French cartoons.

Charlie Hebdo and Blasphemy: Pick Up Your Pen, Not Your Sword

In the wake of the Charlie Hebdo tragedy, January 7, 2015 in Paris, many opinions abound, and it becomes difficult to offer any unique insight of one’s own without being drowned out, or indeed, wondering if you should offer anything at all.