Libya Introduces Morality Police to Enforce 'Traditions'
Libya Introduces Morality Police to MonitorEnforce Public Behavior, Dressing, And Hairstyle'Traditions'
The Facts
Libya will set up a Morality Police to monitor inappropriate public behavior, clothing, and hairstyles beginning in December. Interior Minister Imed Trabelsi reportedly said last week that Libyans' behavior, including on social, must align with the values of Libyan society.Libya's UN-backed Government of National Unity (GNU) has announced the introduction of a morality police to enforce modesty and traditions to reverse the alleged influence of imported European fashion and trends.
Trabelsi said the Morality Police will prevent public gender mixing and ensure mandatory head coverings for women. Women will not be allowed to travel within Libya without a male guardian. People "seeking personal freedom should go to Europe," the minister reportedly said.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.
The Spin
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.