Cartoon Conflict: Pinpointing Responsibility

The ongoing dispute over the Muhammad cartoons has long since ceased to revolve around religious sensitivities, observes columnist Niklas Ekdal. According to Ekdal, regimes such as those in Syria and Iran are using the drawings as an excuse to demonstrate how much power they can mobilise against the West in their own states. However, he adds that Denmark and Europe should still do what they can to resolve the dispute. "Firstly, they should react to attacks on embassies and development aid organisations by immediately imposing diplomatic sanctions. Secondly, they should isolate extremists on all sides. Thirdly, dialogue has already begun – both at a national and international level – and it's the most effective instrument for overcoming differences. Fourthly, a mosque should be built in Copenhagen to make it clear that Islam is not the target of a war between civilisations. Fifthly, Jyllands-Postens' editor-in-chief should take responsibility for his actions and think about resigning. This would create an opening without offending sacred principles."

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