Barbie Banned in Kuwait and Lebanon

Lebanon’s Minister of Culture has taken measures to prohibit the screening of the movie “Barbie” in cinemas, citing concerns about its perceived promotion of homosexuality and its clash with religious values.

This decision has garnered support from the influential Shiite armed group Hezbollah, led by Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who has expressed opposition to the LGBT community. The movie has also faced a ban in Kuwait for similar reasons.

Lebanon has historically been considered a relatively tolerant space for the LGBT community within the conservative Middle East and even hosted a gay pride week in 2017. However, recent developments, including bans on events deemed to “promote sexual perversion” and calls for action against materials supporting homosexuality, have caused tensions.

In a recent statement, Nasrallah urged Lebanese authorities to take strong measures against content that he views as promoting homosexuality, advocating for its prohibition. He sees homosexuality as a significant threat to Lebanon’s social fabric and underscores the necessity for forceful intervention. Notably, he endorses severe consequences, including capital punishment, for engaging in same-sex relationships, regardless of marital status.

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Separately, Lebanon’s cabinet, following discussions with prominent Christian figure Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, encouraged the public to uphold traditional family values. While not explicitly addressing the LGBT community, this statement has sparked discussions about its potential implications.

Ayman Mhanna, the executive director of the non-profit Samir Kassir Foundation, has expressed concerns about these recent actions, describing them as part of a wider pattern of bias. He highlights the alignment of forces such as Hezbollah, the far-right Christian faction, and influential religious leaders in what appears to be a coordinated effort against the LGBT community. Mhanna argues that this coalition signifies a troubling wave of intolerance.

Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as the lead characters, “Barbie” has achieved remarkable success, surpassing $1 billion in worldwide box office earnings since its release on July 21. The film follows the adventures of Mattel Inc’s iconic doll as she embarks on a journey in the real world.