Date: 26 October 2025
Time: 18:00
Location: MuseumsQuartier Wien, Raum D — Vienna, Austria
The topic of 'Islam and Democracy' continues to inspire reflection and discussion in contemporary Europe. Public debate—especially concerning migration and inclusion—is often clouded by generalizations and polarized views. This event seeks to open new paths for understanding and nuance, exploring how faith and democratic values can coexist within pluralistic societies. It encourages open dialogue, empathy, and shared insight among all participants.
Program
“Heaven and Earth – Mystical Dance”
Performance by **Ziya Azazi** — internationally acclaimed artist, choreographer, and founder of *Dervish in Progress*. Born in Antioch/Hatay and living in Vienna, Azazi is one of the most recognized contemporary Sufi dancers in Europe. His art combines the ancient Sufi whirling tradition with modern aesthetics and digital creativity, bridging cultures and emotions. Through his performance, both the dancer and the audience experience an altered state of perception, touching the fine line between emotion, release, and transcendence. The performance opens this evening’s dialogue on ‘Political Islam vs. Democracy’ by inviting reflection beyond ideology — into shared humanity, presence, and awareness.
Panel Discussion
Prof. Dr. Jens Kreinath — Professor of Anthropology at Wichita State University (Kansas, USA). He specializes in the anthropology of Islam, aesthetics of religion, and the meaning of rituals. His fieldwork focuses on heterodox Islamic traditions and interreligious pilgrimage sites in Turkey. He is a leading expert on Syria and intercultural coexistence.
Dr. Fatma Akay‑Türker — Historian and Islamic religious educator, currently pursuing a doctorate in Islamic Theology. In 2023, she founded the Muslim Women’s Society of Austria to promote dialogue around gender and equality from within the Muslim community. Her work represents courage, reform, and social transformation.
Prof. Dr. Fritz Hausjell — Emeritus Professor at the Department of Journalism and Communication Studies, University of Vienna, and President of *Reporters Without Borders Austria (RSF)*. His main areas include migration, diversity in media, media ethics, and public communication. He actively promotes responsible journalism and democratic awareness.
Moderation: Dr. Zeynep Arslan — Doctor of Social Sciences, gender and diversity expert, and author. Her research focuses on identity, postcolonial critique, Alevism, intersectional feminism, migration, and plurilingualism, with an emphasis on the social positioning of marginalized groups.
The organizers of this evening’s performance and discussion aim to create a space free from prejudice — a focused encounter where dance, dialogue, and diversity meet. By combining movement and thought, emotion and intellect, this event seeks a deeper understanding between people, bridging not only East and West but also *Heaven and Earth*.