In the book Norwegian Islam: How to Love Norway and the Qur’an at the Same Time (2016), Usman Rana argues for the development of an Islamic religious practice adapted to Norwegian culture and society. Rana believed that preaching in mosques was conservative and disconnected from the realities of Norwegian Muslims. The aim of the book was to reduce the divide between the Islamic and Norwegian identities and make it easier for Norwegian Muslims to take their place in Norwegian society as Muslims.
Ten years have passed since the publication of Rana’s book. How does he view the progress today? How can a person be a committed and conservative Muslim while also being part of a changing society?
These questions and more are on the agenda at this year’s Author Meets Researcher, an annual collaborative event between Kapittel and the Research Days festival.
Marianne Hafnor Bøe is Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Stavanger and researches the intersections between religion, law and gender. She is an expert on Islam and has, among other topics, researched gender equality among Norwegian Muslims and feminism in Islam.
Usman Rana is a doctor, author and public commentator. He has previously served as leader of the Muslim Students’ Society and has written for publications including Aftenposten, Morgenbladet and Vårt Land.
The conversation is hosted by David Sviland from the University Library of Stavanger.
Organised in collaboration with the University of Stavanger.
The event forms part of Kapittel – Stavanger International Festival for Literature and Freedom of Expression, taking place from 16–20 September 2026. More information, the full programme and tickets are available at www.kapittel.no.
Please note that photographs and video may be taken at selected events at Sølvberget and during the Kapittel Festival for documentation and use on social media.
