Libya Introduces Morality Police to Enforce 'Traditions'

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Above: Women carry bags as they walk in front of shops in Libya's southern city of Sebha on Sept. 4, 2024. Image copyright: Adbullah Doma/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images

The Facts

  • Libya's UN-backed Government of National Unity (GNU) has announced the reinstatement of morality police to enforce modesty and traditions to reverse the alleged influence of imported European fashion and trends.

  • The GNU interior minister, Emad al-Tarabulsi, said that patrols — set to start next month — will target certain haircuts, prevent gender mixing in public spaces, and ensure that women and girls starting from age nine wear head coverings.

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The Spin

Narrative A

Libya's proposed morality police threaten citizens' fundamental freedoms, especially targeting women's autonomy and equality. Steps such as compulsory veiling of young girls, enforcing male guardianship for travel, and policing personal choices dangerously intensify restrictions on freedom of expression, privacy, and self-determination.

Amnesty International

Narrative B

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.

S2Jnews

Metaculus Prediction