Ethical and Human Rights Dilemmas in Relation to State Recognition and Cooperation with Religious Leaders

The paper explores some of the ethical and human rights dilemmas that may occur when the “secular” state is in dialogue with leaders of different Muslim faith communities or independent Muslim activists  - with regard to work permits for religious leaders (imams) and in current questions concerning halal food, wearing of hijab or niqab, and anti-extremism measures. Who are the state's privileged partners, and how do state policies in these fields reflect different perceptions of religion and representation?