Veils, Crucifixes, and the Public Sphere: What Kind of Secularism? Rethinking Neutrality in a Post-Secular Europe

The Lautsi case in Italy attracted widespread attention in Europe and beyond. Though the issue under contention was a Christian symbol, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) judgements showed changes in assessment both about religion (in contrast with former cases regarding Muslim veils) and secularism (which did not have the same meaning for everyone). In light of those rulings, this paper reflects on the concepts of neutrality and secularism and their normative implications for European citizens in terms of belonging, solidarity and cohesion. An open and plural public sphere, in which intercultural exchange can flourish, is crucial if Europe is serious about the integration of its immigrants, many of whom possess a Muslim background. A ‘post-secular’ Europe may have to reconsider long-held stereotypes about religion and nuance its self-understanding as ‘secular’, in a way that religious citizens can identify with Europe too. The discussion will draw on the ideas of Taylor, Casanova, Habermas, Weiler and Beck to illustrate some of the political, ethical and theoretical complexities of the Lautsi case, specifically issues to do with neutrality, secularism and the role of religion in the public sphere

Source and Source Relations

In seeking to understand the construction of news, how journalist-source relationships function is a core concern of journalism studies. These relationships are not necessarily a simple one-way transfer of information but can be a complex interaction that may require understanding of journalism practices, journalism ethics, media law, commerce and the state to elucidate. Normatively, whether identified, anonymous or confidential sources or whistle-blowers, sources can provide journalists with the means to challenge official and elite narratives. This entry details the type and nature of professional relationships between journalists and their personal sources and note the mounting threats to this vital practice. While there are laws to protect journalist’s sources, international organisations note they are at risk of erosion, restriction and compromise - a direct challenge to the universal human rights of freedom of expression and a threat to investigative journalism