Lebanon’s Minister of Culture has announced a ban on the popular film “Barbie” in cinemas across the country. The decision, which is backed by the influential Shiite armed group Hezbollah and its leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, is based on concerns that the film promotes homosexuality and conflicts with religious values. The film has also been banned in Kuwait for similar reasons.
Despite Lebanon’s reputation as a relatively safe haven for the LGBT community in the conservative Middle East, recent developments have raised concerns about increasing intolerance. In 2017, the country held a gay pride week, but recent bans on events seen as promoting “sexual perversion” and calls for action against materials promoting homosexuality have ignited tensions.
Nasrallah, in a recent address, called on Lebanese authorities to take strict measures against content he perceives as promoting homosexuality. He views homosexuality as a threat to Lebanon’s societal fabric and advocates for forceful intervention. He even endorsed severe consequences, including capital punishment, for engaging in same-sex relationships, regardless of marital status.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s cabinet, following a meeting with prominent Christian figure Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rai, urged citizens to uphold traditional family values. While the statement did not explicitly address the LGBT community, it has sparked discussions about its potential implications.
Ayman Mhanna, the executive director of the non-profit Samir Kassir Foundation, expressed concerns about these recent actions. He described them as part of a broader pattern of prejudice, highlighting the convergence of forces like Hezbollah, the far-right Christian faction, and influential religious leaders in what appears to be a coordinated campaign against the LGBT community.
The film “Barbie,” starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, has achieved remarkable success since its release on July 21, surpassing $1 billion in global box office sales. The film follows the adventures of Mattel Inc’s iconic doll as she embarks on an adventure in the real world. Despite its success, the recent bans in Lebanon and Kuwait have cast a shadow over its global reception.
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