10 april 2008 - The immigration of people from different non-Western countries has made the Netherlands into a so-called multicultural country. The immigration of people with a Muslim background has led some people to question the ideal of multiculturalism. They feel that Islam and democracy cannot coexist. Instead of multiculturalism, they stress the need for a strong Dutch culture. In this lecture dr. Markha Valenta (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) will explain the vehement reactions that are currently seen in the integration debate. Why is the issue often avoided by traditional Dutch political parties? Does the current situation constitute a Dutch identity crisis? From her position as both an in- and outsider Markha Valenta takes and uncovers many interesting connections and peculiarities. Markha Valenta is an American historian whose current research is on the relationship between Muslims and the Western world. Wednesday 7th May, by Dr. Markha Valenta, 11.45 - 13.00 hours, Blauwe Zaal, Auditorium