Arif Rafiq

Why the world should be concerned about India's recent election results

Uttar Pradesh chief Yogi Adityanath is a radical Hindu cleric who could one day lead the world’s second-most populous country with an iron fist.

Taliban: Seizing Afghanistan and ruling it are two different beasts

The Taliban regime may last longer than before, as it controls more territory and could see global recognition. But holding onto power would require it to make a break with its past.

Modi gets a blank cheque from America

Narendra Modi, Donald Trump and US politicians unite under the banner of Islamophobia.

What explains Lindsey Graham’s change of heart on Pakistan and Afghanistan?

US Senator Lindsey Graham's statements during his Pakistan visit indicate that the US is looking to cut its losses in Afghanistan.

Privatising the Afghan war is dangerous - and more likely than you think

The longest war in US history could be about to get worse as private companies compete to take up more combat duties.

India’s secularism under threat

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi marches through the institutions of the state, Muslims and other minorities are becoming increasingly imperiled and marginalised.

India’s Hindutva extremists cheer on Myanmar's radical Buddhist monks

Is the world's largest democracy also becoming the largest source of extreme Hindu nationalism?

Beware the emerging "New India"

The rise of majoritarianism fueled by Hindu ultra-nationalism threatens India's pluralistic, rich and diverse traditions. Muslims have become targets in India and their oppressors enjoy impunity and oxygen from the government.

Muslims and Liberal Pluralism — are they at odds with each other?

The juxtaposition of Islam as the polar opposite of the values held dear in the West — freedom, equality, and tolerance — is not consistent with history.