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Al JazeeraMAR 11 2022
Libya's UN-backed Government of National Unity (GNU) has announced the introduction of a morality police in Tripoli to enforce modesty and traditions to reverse the alleged influence of imported European fashion and trends.
The GNU interior minister, Emad al-Trabelsi, said on Wednesday that patrols — set to start next month — will target "strange" haircuts, prevent gender mixing in public spaces, and ensure women and girls from the age of nine wear head coverings.The GNU interior minister, Emad al-Trabelsi, said that patrols — set to start next month — will target "strange" haircuts, prevent gender mixing in public spaces, and ensure women and girls from the age of nine wear head coverings.
He further added that morality police will be empowered to shut down non-compliant hookah lounges and barbershops, and that women must have a male guardian to travel within the country.He further added that morality police will be empowered to shut down non-compliant hookah lounges and barbershops, and that women must have a male guardian — or mahram — for certain trips.
Libya's proposed "morality police" threatens citizens' fundamental freedoms, especially targeting women’s autonomy and equality. Steps such as compulsory veiling of young girls, enforcing male guardianship for traveling, and policing personal choices dangerously intensify restrictions on freedom of expression, privacy, and self-determination.
Libya aims to safeguard traditional values, focusing on curbing Western influences, social media trends, and behaviors seen as threats to cultural identity. Many citizens support the planned measures to defend against globalization, reinforce social standards, and strengthen Libya's cultural identity amid societal shifts.