Lebanon has approved the screening of the film "Barbie" in Lebanese cinemas after an attempt by Minister of Culture Mohammad Mortada to ban it, citing claims that it contradicts conservative values. The Director-General of Lebanese General Security issued a decision today, which Reuters obtained a copy of, allowing the film to be shown, with the only condition stated being that viewers must be at least 13 years old.
Last month, Mortada requested the Ministry of Interior to prohibit the film, claiming it "promotes homosexuality and gender transition... violates morals and values, particularly family values, and contravenes emotional, moral, and faith principles" by downplaying the importance of family unity.
Consequently, based on Mortada's decision, Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi referred the film to the committee for reviewing films for exhibition to assess it and provide recommendations. This committee is part of the General Security apparatus, which is under the Ministry of Interior and traditionally responsible for censorship decisions.
The film "Barbie," starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, has surpassed one billion dollars in global sales since its premiere on July 21. Lebanon is traditionally seen as a haven for freedom of expression in the region, but incidents related to censorship have been on the rise.
