In January of 2015, two Islamist gunmen attacked the office of a French satirical magazine called Charlie Hebdo. The attackers were outraged because the magazine had published cartoons making fun of the Prophet Muhammad, including caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad (BBC News, 2015). Twelve people died as a result of this attack. Although there are no explicit prohibitions in the Qur’an about depictions of the Prophet Muhammad, there are cultural taboos on depictions of the Prophet Muhammad and many Muslims find such depictions to be disrespectful (NPR, 2015).

Shortly after the attack at Charlie Hebdo, during a trip to Asia which was aimed at improving religious harmony and inclusion, Pope Francis spoke out in relation to this incident and the killing of journalists because of the magazine cover featuring the Prophet Muhammad (Dias, 2015). He said:

“Religious freedom and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights,” the Pope said, speaking in Italian, but he continued by saying they are also not total liberties: “there is a limit.” He concluded, “Every religion has its dignity. I cannot mock a religion that respects human life and the human person” (Dias, 2015). Pope Francis also denounced the Paris violence.

He added: “One cannot offend, make war, kill in the name of one’s religion, this is, in the name of God,” and he added, “To kill in the name of God is an aberration” (Dias, 2015).

Discussion Questions:

1. According to Pope Francis, religious freedom and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights. Can you explain how far one may go in either direction (religious freedom or freedom of expression)

without crossing the line?

2. The Charlie Hebdo magazine is known for its controversial cartoons on different issues, including its satirical caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. What was your reaction to the killings which took place?
3. Do you agree with Pope Francis that interreligious harmony and inclusion will create better relations among nations?