Press TV Islam and Life: Islam & Democracy: Does the Muslim vote in Britain count? P3

Topic: Islam & Democracy
Broadcast Date: 22nd April
Presenter:Tariq Ramadan
Guest:
Dr Musharraf Hussain
Director, Karimia Institute

Description:
In the run-up to the UKs general election, voters are getting ready to go to the polls.
Whilst much of the country is baffled about who to vote for and which partys policies are the clearest, the Muslim community may be facing other issues besides that.
Two weeks ago on Islam & Life we asked the question, how can Muslims increase their representation in Britain?
Critics believe it appears that Muslims in Britain are expected to engage but only enough to bring about minimal change; or else they are branded extremist, ie they must engage but not strategically.
Religious resurgence and democratization are two important global, modern developments, and religious revival can often coincide with the formation of more democratic political systems. However, the two concepts can just as easily be at loggerheads. Special attention is required when observing these issues against the backdrop of the Muslim world, owing to the strength of Islamic resurgence and intensity of demands in recent years for greater popular participation in the political process, for example in such countries as Pakistan, Malaysia, Egypt and Algeria.
The demand and desire for democracy is wide-spread in contemporary global affairs and the assertion of communal identities and demand for increased popular political participation remains strong.

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• Dr Musharraf Hussain
• Karimia Institute
• Islam & Democracy
• Tariq Ramadan
• Muslim vote
• Election