The film 'Barbie' continues to make headlines; screening banned in Kuwait and Lebanon

The screening of the film 'Barbie' began on Thursday, August 10, in cinemas across several Middle Eastern countries. Among them, Kuwait and Lebanon have banned the film's release, claiming it poses a threat to traditional values. According to the Associated Press, the film, which features anatomically genderless dolls, contains no explicit sexual tendencies or support for LGBTQ+ rights, but its broader message of inclusivity and gender equality seems to have provoked anger in a region where homosexuality is a taboo. A statement released by the Kuwaiti state news agency KUNA announced the ban on Wednesday night, stating that the film promotes 'ideas and beliefs that are alien to Kuwaiti society and public order.' In Lebanon, Culture Minister Mohammad Mortada stated that the film is 'in contradiction with the values and morals' and 'promotes homosexuality and gender change.' His request to ban the film has been sent to the Lebanese General Security Agency, which traditionally handles censorship decisions. This action has caused significant uproar in Lebanon, a country that has long offered relative freedom and acceptance to both male and female homosexuals. The LGBTQ+ community in Lebanon has faced increasing pressure in recent years as powerful Islamist and far-right Christian groups have gained more influence amid a severe economic crisis. Across the Middle East, many Muslims, Christians, and Jews consider same-sex relationships to be 'sinful.' In some parts of the Arab world, members of the LGBTQ+ community have been arrested and imprisoned. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has agreed to screen the film 'Barbie.' Some praise Barbie while others deem it anti-male. The film's release in Japan has also faced challenges. The global box office is currently dominated by Barbie and Oppenheimer, while conservative backlash has targeted the film for its perceived 'lack of masculinity.'