TOK: Faith
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Belgium grants killer the right to die
After a three-year legal battle, a mentally ill criminal imprisoned for almost 30 years has been given the right to end his life. What repercussions will this decision have?
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UK Muslim leaders slam un-Islamic ‘monsters’
Over 100 imams and politicians have publicly condemned so-called Islamic State and pleaded for the life of a hostage. Will this deter British Muslims from joining the terrorist group?
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German leader slams new persecution of Jews
Yesterday, 75 years since the start of World War Two in which six million Jews were killed by Nazi Germany, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke out again against anti-Semitism. Why?
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Deep divide over Grand Canyon tourism plans
Plans to build hotels, restaurants and an amphitheatre at one of America’s most breathtaking natural landmarks has triggered furious debate. Do the perils of tourism outweigh the benefits?
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Mecca modernises ahead of Haj pilgrimage
A new state-of-the-art sound system is being installed at Islam’s holiest mosque, as part of a controversial new redevelopment. Is the pace of change undermining the true meaning of the Haj?
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Renewed violence rocks Israel and Palestine
After a series of senseless murders committed by both sides, the Gaza strip is once again awash with violence. It is one of the most vexed conflicts in history – will it ever end?
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European Court upholds French ban on niqab
The European Court of Human Rights has rejected a French woman’s arguments that banning her from wearing the full veil violates her religious freedom. Did the court make the right decision?
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Bosnia still divided over WW1 assassination
A century ago in Sarajevo, 19-year-old Gavrilo Princip fired the shots that sparked the train of events that led to a disastrous global war. But how should this event be remembered?
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Assisted suicide bid rejected by UK court
The Supreme Court has upheld a ban on doctors assisting patients who wish to end their lives, but calls for parliament to make the law clearer. Should the very ill be given the right to die?
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Bristol divided over its slavery legacy
There have been calls for the removal of the statue of Edward Colston, a benefactor of Bristol who profited through the slave trade. Is it a disgrace or a necessary reminder of the past?
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Returning jihadists pose a threat to the UK
After young British men appear in a recruitment video for a militant jihadi group, security experts warn of serious danger on their return. Hundreds have already gone. What can be done?
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Forced marriage to be criminalised in England
Force someone to marry against their will and you could go to jail. This new law has been hailed as a great human rights victory by some, but will it work in practice for those at risk?
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India’s PM vows to clean up the sacred Ganges
A toxic mix of human waste and chemicals is polluting one of the world’s most important and holy rivers. India’s new prime minister has vowed to take action, but who is most to blame?
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US politicians clash over prisoner deal
The US government has agreed to release five senior Taliban insurgents in return for a soldier held captive in Afghanistan for five years. Will this exchange set a dangerous precedent?
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Cameron declares UK is a Christian country
David Cameron insists on Christianity’s value in public life, but many say he is excluding those of other faiths and those of none. Is religion a helpful guide to running a modern country?