Riyadh Comedy Festival Faces Human Rights Criticism

Source: Saudi Arabia: Riyadh Comedy Festival Whitewashes Abuses (2025-09-24)

Human Rights Watch has criticized the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, accusing it of glossing over serious human rights abuses. The organization highlights concerns that the event may be used to distract from ongoing issues related to freedoms and justice in the region. Despite the festival's entertainment focus, critics argue that it fails to address or acknowledge the broader human rights violations occurring in Saudi Arabia. The controversy raises questions about the role of cultural events in overshadowing important social and political issues.

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