Much of the world has surrendered to Barbie’s charms, as shown by her millionaire figures and records. Despite its success, the film has not been spared from problems, such as those it is now facing in Kuwait and Lebanon. In both countries, Barbie is in danger for “promoting homosexuality“.
Greta Gerwig’s film has met with strong political opposition in both countries. In Lebanon it is on the verge of being banned while in Kuwait it has already been vetoed. Lebanon’s Minister of Culture Mohammad Mortada has also insisted that Barbie “contradicts the values of faith and morals” by not presenting a traditional family. For the time being, Barbie has been requested to be reviewed and appropriate action will be taken against her, so she will most likely be banned as well.
The situation in Lebanon, an Arab country that had the honor of being the first to celebrate Gay Pride in 2017, is not unremarkable. However, the actual situation is very different: the Lebanese Penal Code punishes homosexual relations, seen as unnatural practices, with up to one year in prison.
Kuwait is known for being governed by rather strict standards, especially in the cultural sphere. Knowing this, it is not surprising to read the statements of the chairman of the film censorship committee, Lafi Al-Subaie, who accuses Barbie of “conveying ideas that encourage unacceptable behavior and distort society’s values.”
For the time being, in other Middle Eastern countries Barbie is still on track. In fact, it will be released in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on August 10. However, Barbie arrives after weeks of waiting where it has also been subjected to extensive censorship.
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