Saudi Clerics Proclaim Protesting as "Un-Islamic"

Possibly adding fuel to the fire of the Islam-and-democracy-don't-mix debate, a few of the top Saudi clerics have released fatwas denouncing pro-democracy protests, citing them as 'Un-Islamic'. Yes, protests, you know, those things happening all over the region. I'm sure you've heard of them. So, this Muslim blogger argues against their decision.

"Islam and democracy is not an oxymoron. Democracy, human rights, women’s rights, learning, knowledge, is not something alien imposed on the Musim world by the West, these are values that lie at the heart of the Quran."

In light of recent reports that there are thoughts of starting up a Lebanese feminist political party, Mustapha from Lebanon discusses the positives of having such a party. Hooray for the 'Women's Spring".

"In other words, without actually winning elections, parties like a would-be feminist party can influence politicians to embrace their cause. This process is already under way in part because of pressure from feminist activism."

The Lebanese are infamous for their billboards. Some are effective; others are straight up laughable. Either way, they make for a very interesting case study. In unison with Beirut Drive-By Shooting, this IT and social media loving Lebanese blogger discusses advertising in Lebanon- the good, the bad and the really really ugly.

"Lebanon’s billboards are loud. Sometimes they are shocking, sometimes they seem to tell us the same thing over and over as if we didn’t hear or see the first 50 times. These billboards talk to us and never hear the conversations in the passing cars. 'I like that one.' Oh my God! Look at that!'"

Admits it! You love reading the comment section of an online article, trolling and all. Well, here's a blog entry that's all about the comments section. But this isn't an exercise in trolling. Instead, this blogger asks Lebanese expats about their experiences and 39 (in the time of publishing) have responded with their stories and experiences.