The working paper consists of the analyses of different forms of Taiwanese public diplomacy and it also contains a future development scenario as far as such an essential tool of foreign affairs is concerned. The research project has been conducted from many points of view. There are institutional, strategic and operational dimensions of public diplomacy with the engagement of government officials and agencies, NGOs, public institutions and citizens as well. Having analysed the whole activity concerning public diplomacy, the main conclusion ought to be made, i.e., the official development assistance and humanitarian aid shall be provided as the most effective tool to enhance Taiwanese international visibility.

Messages directed to potential volunteers via Polish-language websites. An example of voluntary work in African countries

Internet communication is widely used by Polish NGOs in communicating with the public. It is also used by foundations and associations that organize volunteering in Africa. The purpose of this article is to characterize the communications concerning participation in volunteering in the African area, which have been posted on the Polish-language Internet by the aforementioned NGOs. This article presents theoretical issues relating to the Internet as a tool of communication in NGOs, the image of the Other in Polish society (in relation to Africa and the inhabitants of the continent) and volunteering in Polish NGOs. It presents the results of the author’s own qualitative research conducted using an analytical technique, the content analysis method. Messages posted on the websites of NGOs focus on the person of the volunteer experiencing exotic adventures and gathering attractive experiences, at the expense of presenting the beneficiaries of the volunteer’s activities. The described communications present reality in a way that perpetuates stereotypes, while conveying information about the professional, ethical and intelligent nature of the activities of foundations and associations.

The Liberalisation of Islam: the Case Studies of Western Europe

The article refers to the issue of inclusive Islam, which is examined from the perspective of European experiences related to the liberalization of religion. The aim of the article is to show the development of Muslim thought in its progressive version. The first part discusses the views of individual scholars of Islam, which point to the possibility of progressive interpretation of the Quran and hadiths. Particular attention is paid to feminist and secular issues, as well as those related to queer cases. In the second part, the author presents two case studies related to the existence of liberal thought in Islam: the activities of the Ibn Rushd & Goethe Mosque in Berlin and NGOs in the United Kingdom that work for queer Muslims.