• Launch Event – The 47th Islamic Book Fair was inaugurated on April 21, 2025, under the theme "Towards a Civilizational Awareness."
• Cultural Importance – The Islamic Book Fair featured speeches highlighting reading, Islamic heritage, and Kuwait’s designation as the Capital of Arab Culture.
• Large Participation – The Islamic Book Fair attracted authors, scholars, diplomats, and students, reinforcing its global significance.
• Engaging Activities – The Islamic Book Fair hosted competitions, forums, and discussions fostering intellectual and cultural exchange.
• Forum Theme: A literary forum at the Islamic Book Fair explore poetry and literature’s role in shaping civilizational awareness.
• Distinguished Speakers – The Islamic Book Fair welcomed experts like Dr. Saad Maslooh, Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb, and Talal Al-Aamer, who provided insights into language, rhetoric, and Islamic literature.
• Cultural Revival – The Islamic Book Fair emphasizes poetry and literature as tools for preserving Islamic identity and heritage.
• Event Details – The Islamic Book Fair's literary forum is scheduled for April 23 at 8 PM at the Social Reform Society’s auditorium in Al-Rawda, open to all.
• Broader Fair Activities – The Islamic Book Fair continues until May 3, featuring daily literary and cultural events promoting intellectual dialogue.

On Monday morning, Shawwal 23, 1446 AH / April 21, 2025, the 47th Islamic Book Fair was inaugurated under the slogan "Towards a Civilizational Awareness."

This event is organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, under the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi. The opening was attended by Dr. Khaled  Al-Mathkur Al- Al-Mathkur, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Reform Society, along with several board members and a distinguished crowd of those interested in cultural and religious affairs.

The fair was honored by the presence of the Deputy Qatari Ambassador Ali bin Abdullah Zaid Al-Mahmoud, Turkish Ambassador Tuba Nur Sönmez, and a number of political, cultural, and religious leaders, in addition to participating authors and publishing houses.

The opening conference began with a speech by Saham Al-Dawwas Al-Azmi, Director of the National Library and representative of the Minister of Information, who emphasized the importance of reading and culture, praised the efforts of the Social Reform Society  in spreading culture and awareness, and its commitment to preserving the Arab and Islamic identity through the Islamic Book Fair that it organizes each year. She expressed her happiness that this fair coincides with Kuwait being chosen as the Capital of Arab Culture.

In her speech, Al-Azmi expressed gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah protect him, the Minister of Information, and the gentlemen responsible for the fair, as well as the esteemed attendees.

In his speech, Dr. Khaled Al- Al-Mathkur, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Reform Society , expressed his thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah protect him, the Minister of Information and Culture and his representative at the opening ceremony, and the participating gentlemen, attendees, and visitors from all over the world.

Dr.  Al-Mathkur emphasized the importance of conscious reading and Islamic culture, stating that the Islamic Book Fair is not just an annual event; rather, it is a means to spread moderate thought and a message to support culture and preserve our Arab and Islamic identity. He noted that the Social Reform Society  has taken this mission upon itself for the 47th consecutive year and will continue its efforts alongside the State of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture, engaging those interested in knowledge and awareness throughout the Arab and Islamic world.

The 47th Islamic Book Fair commenced its activities with an unprecedented public turnout, as students from schools and universities, along with those interested in Islamic and Arab culture, intellectuals, and literary figures flocked to the fair, along with widespread participation from authors and publishing houses from around the world to witness this distinguished annual cultural event that unites knowledge and faith, and identity.

 The International Islamic Charitable Organization Participates in the 47th Islamic Book Fair  

As part of its ongoing efforts to spread awareness and knowledge and to promote a culture of charitable work, the International Islamic Charitable Organization is participating in the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area. The fair will take place from April 21 to May 3, 2025, under the slogan "Towards a Civilizational Awareness," with participation from a selection of publishing houses and official entities from within and outside Kuwait.

The organization is represented at the fair by the International Center for Studies on Charitable Work through a special booth (Booth 31), where it showcases its most significant intellectual and research publications addressing issues of charitable work and human development. This is part of its efforts to deepen community awareness of the role of charitable work in advancing societies and emphasizing the organization’s practices based on established scientific and methodological principles and studied experiences.

 Islamic Book Fair Continues Its Activities on the First Day   

The "Islamic Book Fair," organized by the Social Reform Society, continued its activities in its 47th edition under the slogan "Towards Cultural Awareness" at the association's headquarters in the Al-Rawda area. During the evening of the fair, many visitors flocked to the event, which featured a variety of activities organized by the fair's coordinators. Among these activities was the "Genius Challenge" competition, which kicked off its first round on the fair's opening night, Monday, April 21. It consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases. The first phase included 4 teams: "The Distinguished," "The Elite," "Youth of the Call," and "The Merengi." The competition was managed and judged by Mohammad Al-Shammari, an expert in organizing competitions, and included 20 questions covering the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, Islamic culture, medicine, and the animal and plant world. The first phase ended with the victory of "The Distinguished" team, which scored 4 points more than "Youth of the Call," 6 points more than "The Elite," and 7 points more than "The Merengi."

In the same context, the second phase of the first round of the competition comprised 4 other teams: "The Stars," "Abu Ashma," "Uthman ibn Affan," and "The Kamali." This phase also consisted of 20 questions; however, the questions in this phase were considered somewhat challenging by the audience. After fierce competition lasting over 20 minutes, the phase concluded with "The Stars" team winning by 3 points over "Abu Ashma" and "The Kamali" teams, and 7 points over "Uthman ibn Affan."

Thus, "The Distinguished" team (in the first phase) and "The Stars" team (in the second phase) advanced to the semi-final round, and the competition attracted significant interaction among social media followers and attendees at the fair. The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until they conclude on Saturday, May 3.

 Events on the Second Day of the 47th Islamic Book Fair  

The 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society  at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, continued its activities under the slogan "Towards Cultural Awareness," with the generous sponsorship of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. On the second day of the fair (April 22), there was a noticeable increase in activities, which began with the "Prophetic Biography Competition," organized by the Islamic Education Guidance in the Hawalli area, with the participation of 8 schools. This competition included a variety of questions about religion and the Prophetic biography, concluding with the honoring of the participating students and encouraging them to seek knowledge and to embrace their Islamic and Arab identity.

Meanwhile, the evening period of the fair continued the "Genius Challenge" competition that had started the previous day. The challenge consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases, with the first phase featuring 4 teams: "The Happiness," "The Ansar," "The Elite," and "The Farooq." Mohammad Al-Shammari managed and judged this cultural competition, which included 20 questions on the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, Islamic culture, medicine, and the animal and plant world. The first phase ended with "The Ansar" team winning.

In the same context, the second phase of the second round of the competition consisted of 4 other teams: "The Family," "The Kings," "The Chosen One," and "The Rest Area." This phase also included 20 questions, and after a challenge characterized by competitive spirit lasting over 30 minutes, "The Chosen One" team emerged victorious over the other participating teams.

Thus, the teams "Al-Ansar" (in the first stage) and "Al-Mukhtar" (in the second stage) advanced to the semi-finals, and the competition received significant interaction from the attendees and followers on social media platforms.

Additionally, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, along with a literary forum on "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Civilizational Awareness," attended by Dr. Saad Maslooh (Sheikh of Linguists) and Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb (Sheikh of Rhetoricians), as well as the Kuwaiti writer and literary figure Talal Al-Aamer.

The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until the end of its events on Saturday, May 3.

The Literary Forum of the Islamic Book Fair... Figures in Rhetoric Speak

Under the title "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Civilizational Awareness," the 47th Islamic Book Fair organizes a literary forum to enhance the role of literature and poetry in forming the civilizational awareness of nations and peoples, especially given that the Islamic nation is in urgent need of reshaping its civilizational awareness on foundations based on its cultural and religious identity. Poetry and literature are considered among the most important tools for this awakening, due to their capacity to revive heritage, instill values, and stir the collective spirit.

The Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in Al-Rawda, has entrusted this forum to three distinguished figures in Arabic language, poetry, and Islamic literature: Prof. Dr. Saad Maslooh, known as "the Sheikh of Contemporary Linguists," is a prominent Egyptian writer, university professor, and creative poet who has managed to combine authenticity and modernity, and he has many publications in heritage, translation, and modern linguistic studies. Dr. Maslooh also received the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in translation in 2009.

Among the notable figures participating in this forum is Dr. Muhammad Hassan Al-Tayyeb, known as "the Sheikh of Rhetoricians," a Syrian linguistic scholar, university professor, investigator, and correspondent member of the Arabic Language Academy in Damascus, in addition to being a member of the International Association for Islamic Literature and a member of the scientific council of the Doha Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language.

Due to the importance of literature and poetry in advocacy, rhetoric, and preserving Islamic identity, the Kuwaiti preacher and speaker Talal Al-Aamer will also participate in this forum. He is known as an eloquent orator and a fluent writer, regarded as one of the most prominent preachers who combine knowledge and eloquence. Due to his strong interest in the field of Islamic literature, he authored "The Kuwaiti Diwan in Praise of the Prophet," collecting poems from 15 Kuwaiti poets in praise of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This diwan is considered one of the significant literary works shedding light on the art of praise in Kuwait.

The literary forum is scheduled to take place at 8 PM on Wednesday, April 23, at the auditorium of the Social Reform Society in Al-Rawda, with attendance open to both men and women.

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Events of the Second Day of the 47th Islamic Book Fair

The 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area, continued its activities under the slogan "Toward Civilizational Awareness," with generous patronage from the Minister of Information, Culture, and State Minister for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.

The second day of the fair (April 22) witnessed a notable increase in its activities, which began with the "Prophetic Biography Competition" organized by the Islamic Education Guidance in Hawalli, with participation from 8 schools. The competition included a variety of questions about religion and the prophetic biography, and concluded with the honoring of the participating students and encouraging them to seek knowledge, explore, and hold on to their Islamic and Arabic identity.

While the evening period of the exhibition continued, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition, which began yesterday, was held. The challenge consisted of 8 teams divided into two phases. The first phase began with 4 teams: "Al-Saadah," "Al-Ansar," "Al-Nukhbah," and "Al-Farooq." Mohammed Al-Shammari, a specialist in preparing and organizing competitions, managed and judged the cultural competition, which comprised 20 questions covering the Quran, the Sunnah, history, geography, legal culture, medicine, and the animal and plant worlds. The first phase concluded with the victory of "Al-Ansar" team.

In the same context, the second phase of the second round of the competition involved another 4 teams: "Al-Ahel," "Al-Muluk," "Al-Mukhtar," and "Al-Istiraha." This phase also included 20 questions. After a contest filled with competitive spirit that lasted more than 30 minutes, the "Al-Mukhtar" team emerged victorious over the other participating teams.

Thus, the "Al-Ansar" team (in the first phase) and the "Al-Mukhtar" team (in the second phase) advanced to the semi-finals, and the competition received significant interaction from the audience and followers on social media platforms.

Moreover, the "Challenge of Geniuses" competition will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, in addition to holding a literary forum on "The Role of Poetry and Literature in Cultural Awareness" with the presence of Dr. Saad Muslih (Sheikh of Linguists) and Dr. Mohammed Hossan Al-Tayar (Sheikh of Rhetoricians), along with the Kuwaiti writer and novelist Talal Al-Amer.

The activities of the 47th Islamic Book Fair are scheduled to continue daily until the conclusion of its events on Saturday, May 3.

For the third consecutive day... Increased attendance and remarkable interaction at the 47th Islamic Book Fair

In a vibrant cultural scene that combines the spirit of faith and authenticity of knowledge, the 47th Islamic Book Fair continues its activities for the third consecutive day, since its launch on the morning of Monday, April 21, amid notable public attendance and wide participation from educational bodies, publishing houses, and a array of thinkers, intellectuals, and those interested in Islamic cultural affairs.

Training Course for Islamic Education Teachers

The fair began its third day by organizing a specialized training course entitled "Cultural Formation for Islamic Education Teachers," presented by Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Kandari from the Guidance Administration in the Ministry of Education. The course aims to develop cultural skills among Islamic education teachers, providing them with the necessary knowledge and methodological tools to build a comprehensive cultural awareness that stems from Islamic fundamentals and interacts with the contemporary era.

The course addressed the important role of teachers in instilling authentic Islamic values and concepts, and how to employ culture as an effective educational lever that contributes to building a generation that adheres to its identity while being open to the knowledge of science with a critical and conscious spirit. A collection of sources and references that teachers can refer to for systematically and balanced enriching their cultural stock was also presented.

Student Competition... With a Joyful Spirit

Among the most prominent events of the third day was the "Islamic Education Guidance Competition for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational Area," which involved 8 schools: Al-Jahra Private School, Algeria Secondary School, Al-Qayrawan, Al-Saiygh, Um Al-Banin, Al-Salibia, Rehana bint Zaid, and Doha.

The competition included a variety of axes combining religious information, prophetic biography, and ethical situations, in addition to interactive kinetic activities that instilled in the students a spirit of enthusiasm and teamwork.

The competition witnessed significant interaction among the students, where an atmosphere of honorable competition and collective joy prevailed, reflecting the importance of linking religious knowledge with modern educational methods that engage students in the educational process and nurture their spirit of self-learning.

Arabic Calligraphy: Art and Identity 

In another corner of the exhibition, there was a workshop on Arabic calligraphy presented by the renowned calligrapher Hussein Al-Sari, representing "Al-Sari Art for Publishing and Distribution." This workshop was one of the prominent artistic stations on the third day and targeted school students visiting the exhibition, providing them with a hands-on experience in dealing with Arabic calligraphy by allowing them to write their names or selected phrases on various gifts that carried a personal and aesthetic touch. 

The workshop aimed to strengthen the students' connection to this ancient Islamic art and link them to the aesthetics of Arabic writing, which is one of the most significant manifestations of Islamic and artistic identity, through which the pages of civilization were woven. 

Public Attendance 

Since its opening, the 47th Islamic Book Fair has witnessed an increasing public turnout, as crowds of school and university students, pioneers of Islamic thought and culture, in addition to a select group of writers, intellectuals, and researchers, have flocked to the event. There has also been active participation from publishing houses and educational institutions both from within Kuwait and abroad. 

This year, the fair is distinguished by unprecedented momentum in its activities and a rich variety in its cultural and educational programs that target various age groups and intellectual interests, in a diligent effort to reinforce Islamic identity and highlight the authenticity of Arab culture in a modern knowledge framework that meets the aspirations of generations. 

It represents one of the most important annual cultural events in Kuwait, carrying intellectual, educational, and advocacy dimensions that contribute to linking society to its civilizational roots and enhancing its awareness of its cognitive and spiritual issues amidst rapid changes and increasing challenges. 

It is worth noting that the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society  at its headquarters in the Al-Rawda area under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness," is held under the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi. The fair opened its doors from April 21 to May 3, 2025, with participation from over 120 entities and publishing houses, including international participations from Gulf countries, the Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, Maghreb countries, as well as publishing houses from European countries.

 In a vibrant cultural scene that blends the spirit of faith and the authenticity of knowledge, the 47th Islamic Book Fair continues its activities for the third consecutive day since its launch on the morning of Monday, April 21st, amidst a remarkable public turnout and broad participation from educational institutions, publishing houses, and a host of thinkers, intellectuals, and those interested in Islamic affairs.

Cultural Formation Course for Islamic Education Teachers

The fair commenced its third day by organizing a specialized training course entitled "Cultural Formation for Islamic Education Teachers." Presented by Abdulaziz Al-Kandari from the Guidance Department at the Ministry of Education, the course aims to develop the cultural skills of Islamic education teachers and equip them with the necessary cognitive and methodological tools to build an integrated cultural awareness that stems from Islamic principles and interacts with the modern era.

The course addressed the importance of the teacher's role in establishing authentic Islamic values and concepts and how to employ culture as an effective educational lever that contributes to building a generation that adheres to its identity and embraces the advancements of science with a critical and conscious spirit. A collection of sources and references that teachers can consult to systematically and balancedly enrich their cultural knowledge was also presented.

Student Competition... In a Cheerful Spirit

Among the prominent activities of the third day was the "Islamic Education Guidance Competition for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational Area," in which 8 schools participated: Al-Jahra الأهليّة, Al-Jazayer Secondary School, Al-Qairawan, Al-Sayigh, Umm Al-Baneen, Al-Sulaibiya, Al-Rayhana Bint Zaid, and Al-Dawha.

The competition included a variety of themes that combined religious information, the Prophet's biography, and ethical situations, in addition to interactive movement activities that instilled in the students a spirit of enthusiasm and teamwork.

The competition witnessed great interaction among the students, with an atmosphere dominated by the spirit of fair competition and collective joy, reflecting the importance of linking religious knowledge with modern teaching methods that involve the student in the educational process and develop in them a spirit of self-learning.

Arabic Calligraphy... Art and Identity

In another corner of the exhibition, the Arabic calligraphy workshop presented by the renowned calligrapher Hussein Al-Sarri, representative of "Al-Sarri Art for Publishing and Distribution," was one of the most prominent artistic events of the third day. The workshop targeted visiting school students and provided them with a direct experience in dealing with Arabic calligraphy by writing their names or selected phrases on various gifts, giving them a personal and aesthetic touch.

The workshop aimed to strengthen students' belonging to this ancient Islamic art and connect them with the aesthetics of Arabic writing, which is one of the most prominent manifestations of Islamic and artistic identity through which the pages of civilization were woven.

Public Attendance

Since its opening, the 47th Islamic Book Fair has witnessed a growing public turnout, with crowds of school and university students, pioneers of Islamic thought and culture, as well as a selection of writers, thinkers, and researchers, in addition to active participation from publishing houses and educational institutions from inside and outside Kuwait.

This year's exhibition is characterized by an unprecedented momentum in its activities and a rich diversity in its cultural and educational programs, targeting various age groups and intellectual interests, in a diligent endeavor to consolidate Islamic identity and highlight the originality of Arab culture in a modern cognitive framework that keeps pace with the aspirations of generations.

It represents one of the most important annual cultural events in Kuwait, due to its intellectual, educational, and advocacy dimensions, which contribute to linking society with its civilizational roots and enhance its awareness of its cognitive and spiritual issues in light of accelerating changes and growing challenges.

It is worth mentioning that the 47th Islamic Book Fair, organized by the Social Reform Society at its headquarters in the Rawda area under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness" with the generous patronage of the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, opened its doors from April 21st to May 3rd, 2025, with the participation of more than 120 entities and publishing houses, including international participations from the Gulf countries, the Levant, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, and the Arab Maghreb countries, in addition to publishing houses from European countries.

  At the invitation of the Islamic Jamaat in Pakistan, hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis gathered in the capital, Islamabad, to express their ongoing support for Gaza and the Palestinian cause, and to condemn the continuous Israeli crimes in the Gaza Strip.

The Islamic Jamaat called for a march toward the American embassy in Islamabad in protest of the ongoing American support for Israeli crimes in Gaza, stating that this march would be a turning point in political activism in Pakistan.

Rejecting Silence

The Pakistani authorities implemented strict security measures, closing all access routes to the diplomatic area with shipping containers, which prevented demonstrators from reaching the area and led the Islamic Jamaat to change the location for gathering protesters.

Demonstrators flowed in from various parts of Islamabad and nearby cities, waving Palestinian flags and holding banners expressing their ongoing support for the Palestinian people.

In his speech, the head of the Islamic Jamaat, Hafiz Naeem Rahman, stated that the march aims to deliver a clear message to the world that the Pakistani people reject the international silence regarding the "killing of innocent children in Palestine."

Naeem Rahman condemned the Arab, Islamic, and international silence regarding the actions of the Israeli occupation forces in Gaza. He also called for a boycott of products supporting Israel and urged the government to exert more pressure at the international level to stop the genocide in Gaza.

The Islamic Jamaat had organized several demonstrations last week, the most significant of which was a massive rally in Karachi, as well as another demonstration in Lahore, the capital of Punjab province in eastern Pakistan. They pledged to continue the popular movement in Pakistan until the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip comes to an end.

Source: Al Jazeera

On the morning of Monday, April 21, 2025 (23 Shawwal 1446 AH), the 47th Islamic Book Fair was officially opened under the slogan "Towards Civilizational Awareness." The event, organized by the Social Reform Association at its headquarters in Al-Rawdah, was inaugurated under the patronage of Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information, Culture, and Youth Affairs, and attended by Dr. Khaled Mathkour Al-Mathkour, Chairman of the Social Reform Association, alongside members of the Board of Directors and a distinguished gathering of cultural and religious figures.

The fair was honored by the presence of Qatar’s Deputy Ambassador Ali bin Abdullah Zaid Al-Mahmoud and Turkish Ambassador Tuba Nur Sönmez, along with a group of political, cultural, and religious leaders, as well as writers and publishing houses participating in the event.

The opening ceremony began with a speech by Siham Al-Dawas Al-Azmi, Director of the National Library and representative of the Minister of Information. She highlighted the importance of reading and culture, praised the Social Reform Association’s efforts in promoting awareness and preserving Arab and Islamic identity, and expressed her joy that the fair coincides with Kuwait’s selection as the Arab Cultural Capital.

Al-Azmi extended her gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, as well as the Minister of Information and event organizers.

In his speech, Dr. Khaled Al-Mathkour, Chairman of the Social Reform Association, expressed gratitude to His Highness the Emir and the Minister of Information and Culture, along with all participants, attendees, and visitors from around the world. He emphasized the importance of conscious reading and Islamic culture, stating that the Islamic Book Fair is not just an annual event, but a platform for promoting moderate thought, supporting culture, and preserving Arab and Islamic identity. He highlighted that the Social Reform Association has been committed to this mission for 47 consecutive years and will continue with the support of Kuwait as the Arab Cultural Capital and the intellectual community across the Arab and Islamic world.

The 47th Islamic Book Fair kicked off with an unprecedented turnout, attracting students from schools and universities, enthusiasts of Islamic and Arabic culture, and intellectual and literary figures. The event also saw wide participation from writers, authors, and publishing houses from across the world, marking a distinctive beginning to this annual cultural gathering, which brings together knowledge, faith, and identity.

 In an incident that sparked widespread outrage, local authorities in Haryana state, northern India, demolished the "Aksha" mosque, which dates back nearly 50 years, in the village of "Purkhāl" in Faridabad on Tuesday, April 15. This action comes amid the rule of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), known for its extreme Hindu nationalist tendencies.

Legal Concerns:

 According to news reports, residents in the area stated that the demolition was carried out while the case was still pending before the Supreme Court, raising legal and ethical questions about the decision.

Authorities' Response:

The city administration justified the move by claiming that the mosque was an "illegal structure" and that the removal took place under court orders, as stated by the Faridabad municipal body. They emphasized that the demolition decision was not impulsive but had been planned in advance.

Local Residents' Stance:

However, the Muslim residents of the village consider the demolition a unilateral and provocative act. "Mushtaq," a local resident, stated that the authorities did not issue any prior notice and suddenly proceeded to demolish the mosque, which had been built years ago on land donated by a prominent villager. He added that the mosque was used regularly by Muslims for prayer.

Demolition Process:

The demolition process was accompanied by a heavy police presence, with three police assistant commissioners present at the site. The operation began with the removal of the surrounding shops, followed by the destruction of the mosque, a step many described as "pre-planned."

Public Reactions:

This incident sparked local protests, while social media erupted with angry reactions, with many calling the decision "inciting and unjustified." Human rights activists and civil society members sharply criticized the administration, questioning the legality of this action while the case is still under review in the Supreme Court.

Inauguration of the 47th Islamic Book Fair

Dr. Khaled Mathkor Al-Mathkor, the president of the Social Reform Society, confirmed that the events of the Islamic Book Fair in its 47th edition will commence, God willing, tomorrow, Monday, April 21, 2025, at the headquarters of the Social Reform Society in the Al-Rawda area, under the generous auspices of His Excellency the Minister of Information, Abdulrahman Badah Al-Mutairi. He noted that the fair will continue until May 3, 2025.

A Cultural Event with a Civilizational Role

In a press statement on this occasion, Dr. Al-Mathkor stated that the Islamic Book Fair, organized by the society for nearly half a century, has evolved from being merely a cultural event to becoming a comprehensive civilizational platform that affirms the role of culture in building an aware individual and a civil society, embodying the message of the Social Reform Society in promoting thought, knowledge, and human values.

International Participation

He explained that this year’s slogan, “Towards a Civilizational Awareness,” reflects the society's commitment to enhancing human awareness, mentioning that the fair will witness the participation of more than 120 publishing houses from various Arab, Gulf, and European countries. This gives the event an international dimension, further solidifying its status as a prominent cultural gathering in Kuwait and the region.

Governmental and Community Support

Dr. Al-Mathkor praised the significant support provided by the Ministry of Information, under the leadership of His Excellency Minister Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, and also appreciated the cooperation from the Ministry of Education and various volunteer bodies. He emphasized that this collaboration has resulted in a distinguished and exceptional edition of the fair this year.

Diverse Activities for All Audiences

He added: “We have made sure that the activities of the fair cater to various segments of society by dedicating educational morning programs for school students in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, qualitative knowledge competitions, and cultural workshops, in addition to intellectual seminars featuring a select group of thinkers and professors.”

A Special Focus on Children

Dr. Al-Mathkor also indicated a special focus on the children’s segment, offering dedicated sections for children’s books and literature, along with educational and recreational activities to foster a love for reading and knowledge in the new generation. Additionally, the fair will host major cultural competitions, such as the Cultural Impact Competition and Genius Challenge, contributing to building a solid knowledge culture in society.

Kuwait as a Cultural Beacon

Dr. Al-Mathkor concluded his statement by affirming that the 47th Islamic Book Fair highlights Kuwait's role as a beacon of culture and science. He emphasized that the Social Reform Society remains committed to delivering cultural initiatives that honor the nation’s stature and support the goals of civilizational and humanitarian renaissance.

As part of its firm commitment to human rights and achieving sustainable development goals, the State of Kuwait is preparing to host the sixth session of the Government Forum on Combating Human Trafficking in the Middle East on April 24, under the title: 

Protecting Rights and Promoting Justice in Combating Human Trafficking.

Below are the highlights from the statement of Minister of Justice Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, Chairman of the Permanent National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, regarding the forum's objectives and Kuwait's directions on this issue:

First: Three Main Directions for Kuwait in Combating Human Trafficking 

- Enhancing Justice and Respecting Human Dignity 

  This represents Kuwait's vision based on solidifying human rights. 

- Combating Human Trafficking Crimes 

  Through an advanced legal system and effective implementation mechanisms. 

- Developing Mechanisms to Protect Victims 

  Through comprehensive support, referral, and early detection. 

Second: Five Objectives for the Upcoming Government Forum 

- Exchanging Experiences and Best Practices 

  Between governments and international and regional organizations. 

- Enhancing Cooperation and Coordinating Positions 

  To address cross-border human trafficking crimes. 

- Improving National and Regional Response 

  Through more effective mechanisms for identifying and handling cases. 

- Providing Comprehensive Support for Victims 

  And facilitating their access to justice and protection. 

- Discussing Emerging Challenges 

  And proposing innovative solutions to address them effectively. 

 Third: Four Technical and Legal Axes to be Discussed at the Forum 

- Developing Regional and International Partnerships 

  To build capacity and keep pace with modern challenges. 

- Supporting and Empowering Victims 

  To ensure their integration into society after their protection. 

- Building an Effective Legal Framework 

  That aligns with international standards ratified by Kuwait. 

- Reviewing Early Solutions 

  To reduce the spread of this crime and achieve public deterrence. 

Kuwait's hosting of this regional forum reflects its active role regionally and internationally in combating this crime and demonstrates its ongoing commitment to developing legislation and enhancing protection mechanisms for victims, based on a vision grounded in justice and human dignity.

Literary arts are considered a mirror image of society in every time and place. They mirror that society, revealing its virtues and flaws, crystallizing its reality, and serving as a kind of graceful chronicle of that era.

Arab Women in General

The image of Arab women in general, and Muslim women in particular, in Arabic literature, has varied from one period to another, depending on the civilizational state the nation is experiencing, with periods of ups and downs. Women have been presented in Arabic literature in accordance with the cultural changes that affect each society. Sometimes they are presented as an inspiring source of love, passion, and compassion; sometimes as a symbol of beauty and civilization; and sometimes as a source of instinct and seduction in poetry and novels, and more recently in visual arts such as cinema and television drama.

Societal Perception of Women

This reflected the societal perception of women and their modern status after they abandoned their original civilizational role, which was to cease their life as a factory for producing men and spreading moral values ​​in societies. By fulfilling the mission God created for them, they emerged to compete with men in the labor market in the name of feminism and alleged equality, challenging men's roles and losing many of their natural qualities.

Women in Arabic Literature in the Times of the Nation's Prosperity

Islam and the Image of Women

Islam completely changed the image of women in Arabic literature, elevating them from a physical description to a moral one, especially during the periods of the nation's prosperity, which focused on the human being as a human being, encompassing both men and women. However, they remained an inspiration despite being the focus of literary interest and poetic creativity. Just as Islam changed the mental image of most of the values ​​that existed before it, so too did the attention given to the private aspects of women, who were objects of pleasure, instinct, and desire, to become mothers, wives, sisters, and women who may only be approached within the limits set by Islamic law. She is the free and protected woman.

The Era of the Prophet and the Rightly Guided Caliphs

This view of women crystallized during the era of the dawn of the Prophet and the Rightly Guided Caliphs. In subsequent eras, the view of women in Arabic literature was influenced to a small extent by the view of their counterparts in the conquered countries, but it was nevertheless influenced by them. Arabic literature, represented by poetry and poets, was directly and rapidly influenced, reconsidering women as successful physicians, literary poets, teachers, and jurists, significantly influencing cultural life. First: The Umayyad Era (1):

The Umayyad era (661-750 AD) was characterized by a period of great transformation from nomadic and tribal life to urbanization and civilizational construction. Women were a fundamental element in this civilizational construction and an integral part of the influential Arab identity. The image of women in Umayyad poetry was prevalent as the ideal lover. Some poets specifically dedicated themselves to women, such as Jamil Buthayna and Qays ibn al-Mulawwah, also known as Majnun Layla, who wrote about love and women in famous poems. Women reached the pinnacle of respect and appreciation in Arabic poetry when they became "mothers," especially the mothers of caliphs.

When Al-Akhtal praised Al-Walid ibn Abd al-Malik, he praised him by all of his grandmothers, pointing to their noble lineage, their noble families, and their origins:

If I were to mention Al-Walid, his lineage would be traced back to the best of descendants.

The women of Banu Ka'b and Banu Abs gave birth to him. Indeed, they were the best of those who brought him forth.

Some women expressed their grief in Arabic poetry during the Umayyad era, such as Al-Khansa', who composed poetry from the pre-Islamic era until the Umayyad dynasty, depicting feelings of grief and loss.

Second: The Abbasid Era (2):

During the Abbasid era (750-1258 AD), Baghdad was the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate. The status of women witnessed significant development, with a state of great cultural openness in poetry, music, and literature. Women played a significant role in the development of the literary movement, their presence equaling that of poets at the time. Women not only expressed themselves as women but also participated in public affairs that concerned only men. Their poetry was characterized by chastity and modesty, as they did not mention the name of the beloved nor reveal the secrets of their hearts except within the limits adhered to by Muslim society:

O he whose love I conceal, and I do not name him out of fear.

He did not know what I felt from his passion, nor did he know what I suffered for him.

Among those who wrote poetry during the Abbasid era was Rabia al-Adawiyya, whose poetry was characterized by divine love and Sufism. She was a poet, writer, and philosopher all at once. Women in the Abbasid era embodied passion and chaste love on the one hand, and a symbol of wisdom and philosophy on the other.

Third: The Image of Women in Modern and Contemporary Arabic Literature:

Women in modern and contemporary literature have been portrayed in a completely different light than they should be, and Islam has honored them. They have been portrayed in a complex, purely anthropomorphic light over the past ten years. This is evident in Arab dramas presented through cinema and television, where they are presented in a degrading light that falls far short of the reality they experience in our Arab and Islamic societies. Despite the significant deviation of these societies from the practical application of Islamic concepts regarding women, their rights, and their status, drama, and literature have transcended this deviation by far, slipping farther and farther from the truth.

Modern Culture

An example of the contradictory view of women in Arabic literature is Naguib Mahfouz’s literature, his view of women, and his presentation of them. Researcher Howayda Saleh says in her study (3): Naguib Mahfouz presented women in two images, with no third option: the image of the prostitute who earns a living with her body, and the image of the virtuous woman, despite her will, because she is subject to a male-dominated society that has oppressed her in virtue.

This is found in novels such as “New Cairo,” “The Thief and the Dogs,” “The Beginning and the End,” and “Midaq Alley.” As for the image of the virtuous woman, despite her will, who is oppressed by a male-dominated society, in novels such as “The Sugar Girl,” “Palace of Desire,” “Between the Two Palaces,” “Morning and Evening Talk,” and “Mirrors.” The researcher believes that Mahfouz deliberately exposed the patriarchal society that marginalizes, belittles, and demeans women. He either objectifies them, commodifies their bodies, and turns them into prostitutes against their will, forcing them to make a living off their bodies as a result of oppressive social conditions. He also believes that Mahfouz subjugates them under the weight of male guardianship, which renders women ineligible and in constant need of the protection and guardianship of a male-dominated society.

The researcher here does not defend Mahfouz's literature so much as she explains the circumstances that led him to present women in this image. He found women marginalized in a society that viewed them with contempt. He does not present his own vision of women but rather exposes the societal view of them through his various novels.

Fourth: The Image of Women in Islam:

Comparing the image presented by contemporary literature in novels and dramas presented to Muslims day and night with the status of women in Islamic law, we find a vast gap in the way they are viewed and employed. Islam has elevated the status of women, honored them, and made them sisters and equals to men. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, said: “Women are the twin halves of men” (Narrated by Abu Dawud). A young daughter is the joy of her father’s eye. By raising her well, she will be a reason for his entry into Paradise. By treating her well, he will be among the best of people. By being dutiful to her as a mother, he will attain the pleasure of God Almighty. God Almighty says: “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, do not say, ‘O Muhammad!’” {23} And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, "My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small." (Al-Isra')

A man came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and his family) and said, "O Messenger of Allah, who among the people is most deserving of my good companionship?" He said, "Your mother." He said, "Then who?" He said, "Your mother." He said, "Then who?" He said, "Your mother." He said, "Then who?" He said: “Your father.” And so if she is an aunt, paternal aunt, or sister, then she has the right of kinship, the right of affection, mercy, and honor. And a woman has the same rights as men, as God Almighty says: “And women have rights similar to those of their husbands, according to what is equitable. But men have a degree over them. And God is Exalted in Might and Wise.” (Al-Baqarah: 228) One of the manifestations of honoring women is the command to wear the hijab, modesty, and cover-up. This prohibits strangers and strangers from intruding on their privacy. Women are too valuable to be mere objects for anyone to observe. They should not flaunt their beauty or mingle with non-mahrams. Another manifestation of honoring women in Islam is the obligation of their husbands to provide for them. They should not be forced to work to support themselves but rather have the right to full care. In Islam, women are chaste, and protected, with full rights and full capacity. They are neither commodities to be bought and sold, nor are they objects of men, as they are often portrayed in their literature and media.

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(1) A study entitled "Women in Umayyad Poetry" by Dr. Fatima Tajoor, published on the Arab Writers Union Publications website (adapted).

(2) "Women's Literature in the Abbasid Era and Its Artistic Features" by Dr. Khaled Al-Halbouni, Professor of Arabic Language at the University of Damascus (adapted).

(3) A study entitled "The Image of the Arab Woman in the Literature of Naguib Mahfouz" (adapted).