Saudi Comedy Festival under the circle of controversies.
The first global comedy festival is going on in Saudi Arabia. This festival is going on in Riyadh from 26 September to 9 October. While the Comedy Festival has brought comedians from all over the world on one platform, the event has also come under disputes. The festival includes big American comedians like Dave Chapel, Kevin Heart, Jimmy Carr.
But human rights organizations and some comedians have strongly objected to this. On October 2, the seventh anniversary of the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashogi was also part of the controversies related to the Saudi Crown Prince. At this time, the event of this festival raises many questions.
American comedian Dave Chapel’s comment
Dave Chappell has come under target during the festival. He told the stage, “Speaking here is much easier than America.” He also commented on American ‘Cancel Culture’ and freedom of expression, which made the audience applause. However, he did not comment on Saudi rule or human rights, which raised questions on his silence. Dave Chappell is being targeted because his jokes have been in controversies for many years, especially on Trans Community and other sensitive issues. Because of this, he has faced criticism.
Objection of human rights organizations
Human Rights Watch and other organizations have seen the festival as an attempt by the Saudi regime to improve their image. They say that the comedians have been forced to keep quiet on human rights violations of the Saudi government by paying huge amount. The contracts have also clarified that artists have been forbidden to criticize the Saudi government, royal family or religious practices.
Some comedians protested
Comedian Etsuko Oakatsuka refused to attend the festival and told that he was asked to avoid content that criticizes the Saudi government or religious beliefs. Mark Marran, Shane Gillis and others have also criticized the event.
Comedians participating in the festival are being given an amount ranging from $ 350,000 to $ 1.6 million, which is attractive to many artists. Pete Davidson and others have accepted this financial incentive, although they have also mentioned their concerns against personal morality and Saudi rule.
