Zaoui to speak on freedom

Algerian refugee Ahmed Zaoui is to speak about the roots of religious fundamentalism and the response to it at a lecture at Victoria University in Wellington.

The lecture, organised by the Religious Studies and Political Science & International Relations programmes, will be held in the University's Hunter Council Chamber at noon tomorrow.

Religious Studies head Professor Paul Morris said Mr Zaoui's fight to remain in New Zealand had not only galvanised public opinion but also highlighted the role of religion in society and politics.

"Ahmed Zaoui has been a touchstone for New Zealanders to consider issues surrounding religious fundamentalism, terrorism, security and human rights."

He said the small Muslim community here meant we seldom heard first hand of its politics.

- NZPA