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Religion, nationality and the state - Part 2

Ros Atkins Ros Atkins | 13:32 UK time, Friday, 4 August 2006

Hello. We've just finished the editorial meeting and you've set the agenda so clearly that there was only so much to talk about. As you'll see from the posts below, we've been discussing religion and nationality and which is most important to you. A great deal was left unsaid (though you've carried on debating the issue on the blog) so we're going to return to the issue tonight…

One point that several of you made is sure to feature. Ussama in the Pakistani capital Islamabad put it clearly - ‘religion provides people with comfort, human rights and support that the state used to provide but doesn't anymore'. Do you agree? Do you think religion is taking over the responsibilities of the state in your life? We'll also make plenty of time for those of you still wanting to talk about religion and nationality as well.

The relevance of our discussions has been reinforced by today's news. More people have died , killed by their own countrymen, and thousands of civilians are fleeing - with both sides manned by Sri Lankans. Are the boundaries between state, nationality and religion becoming blurred? Do you agree with the comment from of the Pew Forum last night that 'nationality is increasingly defined by religion'?

Much to talk about. We'll do our best to get as many of you on air as we can but there are no restrictions on this blog. If you post a comment, so long as you don't break the , we will definitely publish it.

There are other stories which have also got you talking. Israel's military is preparing for a in Lebanon in spite of at the EU and the UN. Also, popstar Madonna has arrived in Italy with a show that features a crucifix which well in certain quarters. Both stories may well have featured on another day. But with the strength of feeling you've been expressing on this religion / nationality debate, that is what we'll go with today.

We're live again at 17 hour GMT and you can listen live here.

Speak to you later.

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