Qatar seizes rainbow-colored toys it deems 'un-Islamic' | Inquirer News

Qatar seizes rainbow-colored toys it deems ‘un-Islamic’

/ 07:04 PM December 21, 2021

Qatar seizes rainbow-coloured toys it deems 'un-Islamic'

Qatar map INQUIRER.net file photo

DohaQatar Authorities in Qatar, host of next year’s football World Cup, have confiscated a line of children’s toys from stores deeming their rainbow colors “contrary to Islamic values.”

The emirate’s commerce and industry ministry did not spell out its objection to the rainbow colors, but some of the toys bore a color scheme very similar to the LGBTQ flag.

Article continues after this advertisement

Despite repeated assertions by authorities that anyone will be welcome to visit for next year’s World Cup, homosexuality remains illegal in the conservative Muslim emirate.

FEATURED STORIES

The ministry of commerce and industry “carried out inspection campaigns on several retail outlets in different regions across Qatar,” it said on Twitter.

“The campaigns resulted in the seizure and release of several violations, including the confiscation of children’s toys bearing slogans that go against Islamic values.”

Article continues after this advertisement

The tweet was accompanied by pictures of rubber stress balls and other toys in rainbow colors.

Article continues after this advertisement

“The ministry urges all citizens and residents to report any product bearing logos or designs contrary to our traditions,” it said in a separate statement on the official QNA news agency.

Article continues after this advertisement

There was no immediate response from Qatari authorities to AFP requests to elaborate on the reasons for the seizures.

Qatar’s rights record has been under the spotlight ever since it was chosen as the host of the 2022 World Cup in 2010, with the conditions of the tens of thousands of migrant laborers building the tournament’s infrastructure a particular focus alongside LGBTQ rights.

Article continues after this advertisement
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: Islam, LGBTQ, Muslim, Qatar, Religion, toys, world cup

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.