Kuwait and Lebanon move to ban ‘Barbie’ ahead of film’s Mideast release

By NICK EL HAJJ
Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Officials in Kuwait and Lebanon have moved to ban “Barbie” as the film is set to open across the Middle East. The movie centered around the American dolls contains no overt sexuality or references to LGBTQ+ rights. But it seems to have drawn fire because of its sheer flamboyance and broad message of inclusion in a region where homosexuality is widely considered taboo. Kuwait said it banned the movie because it promotes “ideas and beliefs that are alien to the Kuwaiti society and public order.” Lebanon’s culture minister said “Barbie” was found to “contradict values of faith and morality” and “promote homosexuality and sexual transformation.” The film is set to open in the Mideast on Thursday