The List: Looking Who’s Blogging Now

Iranian politician Mohammad Ali Abtahi

Where its at: www.webneveshteha.com/en/weblog

Why you should read it: To get the views of a moderate Iranian reformist. Abtahi, who was a vice president to former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami, rejects religious extremism, criticizing such practices as the stoning of adulterers. He also provides an Iranian perspective on international news stories from the storming of the Red Mosque in Pakistan to the knighting of author Salman Rushdie. Additionally, his blog offers far more serious, substantive, and regular content than the blog of current President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Why you shouldnt: The wording in the English version of the blog can be rather choppy, long winded, and difficult to follow. Occasionally, the typos can be downright hilarious, as when Abtahi identifies Fax News as the extremist American channel that supports Bush. And in any case, Abtahi and his reformist friends may be a spent political force.

Must-read posts:

Iraq and Happiness for Football
At a time when no country can bring peace to Iraq, Iraqs win over Australia in the Asian Cup soccer tournament unites Iraqis. Lal Masjid (Red Mosque) and Revival of Talebanism
Abtahi explains how instead of combating terrorism, the United States has practically declared war against the world of Islam. The Big Problem of Shaking Hands and Mr. Khatami
Last year, U.S. President George W. Bush got too touchy with German Chancellor Angela Merkel when he gave her an unwanted shoulder massage. The flip side is, Merkel was offended when she found out that Khatami doesnt shake hands with women.

Franois Fillon, Frances prime minister

Where its at: www.blog-fillon.com (in French)

Why you should read it: French Prime Minister Franois Fillons blog offers a rare glimpse inside the insular world of French politics. As President Nicolas Sarkozys right-hand man and former campaign director, Fillon is quickly emerging as a key player in a country that voted for reform. In addition to campaign speeches, newspaper articles, and thoughts on Frances big social and political questions, the blog also contains a section titled coup de coeur, or passion, in which the PM writes more casually about his private interests in art, literature, and sports.

Why you shouldnt: The future of the blog remains uncertain. In a recent post, Fillon admits he no longer has time to blog on a regular basis. From now on, two of his closest aides will post their own reflections and animate debate while Fillon himself makes every attempt to continue moderating the blogs discussion forum and answer questions in due course. Also, its in French.

Must-read posts:

Que souhaiter notre pays pour 2006
Writing shortly after riots erupted in Frances suburbs in late November 2005, Fillon reveals his hopes for the future of France and the new year. Caricatures
Reflections on civil liberties, freedom of speech, and the French integration model following the dispute over the Prophet Mohammed cartoons in Denmark. Dclaration de politique gnrale
Text from the declaration of the prime ministers general policy to the French National Assembly on July 3, 2007.

Imad Moustapha, Syrias ambassador to the United States

Where its at: imad_moustapha.blogs.com/my_weblog

Why you should read it: To dispel negative stereotypes about Syria and Syrians. Moustapha writes about his family, including his adorable baby daughter, and his interest in art. His blog puts a human face on a country that many regard as a rogue state. As Moustapha himself acknowledges, his blog has suddenly made his work as an ambassador much easier. Because people read his blog prior to meeting him, he says, The whole context of my meeting with American people has changed a lot.

Why you shouldnt: The demanding work of diplomacy has cramped Moustaphas blogging schedule, and he hasnt been able to update his blog lately. Also, if youre looking to read about politics, this blog isnt the place. Moustapha blogs about personal experiences.

Must-read posts:

Baby Sidra al-Sayed Moustapha
In January, Moustapha became a proud, first-time father of a baby girl. Hes in charge of diaper-changing. Syrian Artist Saad Yagan
A couple of Moustaphas favorite artistic creations by artist Saad Yagan. Cherry Blossom in Washington
Moustapha and his family enjoy the simple pleasure of walking around the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

David Cameron, British opposition leader

Where its at: www.webcameron.org.uk

Why you should read it: To learn who David Cameron, leader of the Conservative Party, is as a person. Cameron doesnt just blog; he vlogsmaking videos of his views and his travels across Britain to meet people. The video format gives a better sense of his personality through both his voice and body language. The vlog, WebCameron, also invites viewer participation through a discussion forum, and Cameron answers select forum questions.

Why you shouldnt: Watching a video takes longer than skimming a text blog. Cameron also focuses primarily on domestic issues, giving little attention to foreign-policy matters.

Must-read posts:

Cameron lives with a Muslim family for a couple of days
Cameron works at a grocery store and learns why a Muslim family sends its kids to a Jewish school. The big idea on which well build our whole government
Cameron is tired of fast-food politics, and he argues for a new idea that will drive the government. Gordon Brown cannot be the change that Britain needs
Cameron argues that Britains new prime minister has authored many of Britains problems, so he cant be the solution.Click here to see our archive of FP Lists.