Libyan authorities are banning rap music on the grounds that it might incite young people to “sex work, suicide, or rebellion against family and society.” The New Arab reports:
Authorities in eastern Libya have imposed a sweeping ban on rap music, the latest move in a broader crackdown on artistic expression in the conflict-riven country. In a decree issued by the Interior Ministry, officials cited “the spread of rap songs, some of which contain obscene words” as justification for the censorship.
The ministry claimed such lyrics violate “the moral values of Libyan Muslim society”. It warned that rap music could ‘corrupt’ youth, inciting them to “sex work, suicide, or rebellion against family and society.”
The order goes beyond just rap, extending to all theatrical and dance performances unless explicitly approved by the government. Under the new restrictions, rappers must seek permission from the Culture Ministry and other relevant bodies before performing or sharing their work.
Officials framed the measure as consistent with Libyan law, which, they said, guarantees freedom of expression so long as it does not contradict public morals or Islamic principles.
The ban applies in eastern Libya, which is governed by one of Libya’s two main warring factions, the Libyan National Army of warlord Khalifa Hiftar. A different faction governs western Libya, the so-called Government of National Accord (GNA). The Tripoli-based GNA has also tightened restrictions on social interactions, such as “reviving a ‘morality police’ force tasked with enforcing dress codes, policing ‘strange’ haircuts, and mandating male guardians for women.” For its part, the LNA has also cracked down on other practices deemed un-Libyan or un-Islamic, such as banning New Year’s celebrations.
On a brighter note, Libya’s southern neighbor, Chad, recently succeeded in eradicating the horrific disease of sleeping sickness, which disrupts sleeping patterns and causes aggressiveness, psychosis, and bizarre behavior. The death rate from sleeping sickness is close to 100%, if it is left untreated.
