The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Qatar has seized children’s toys from stores deeming their rainbow colours “contrary to Islamic values.”
The ministry did not elaborate on its objection to the toys, but some of the them are visibly the same colour scheme as the LGBTQ flag.
Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar according to the rules stipulated by Islam which considers the homosexual act a major sin.
The tweet from the official handle of the ministry read: “#MOCIQATAR carried out inspection campaigns on several retail outlets in different regions across #Qatar, 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.”
The tweet was supplemented by pictures of rubber toys in rainbow colour. In a separate statement quoted by Qatar News Agency, the ministry said: “The ministry urges all citizens and residents to report any product bearing logos or designs contrary to our traditions.”
Previously 2022 World Cup chief executive Naseer Al-Khater has said: “We have a country that is conservative, however, we are a welcoming country… When it comes to the rainbow flags in the stadiums, FIFA have their own guidelines, they have their rules and regulations. Whatever they may be, we will respect them.
“We are open and welcoming – hospitable. We understand the difference in people’s cultures. We understand the difference in people’s beliefs and so I think, again, everybody will be welcome and everybody will be treated with respect.
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“Just like our culture is a culture of this world, we also expect people to respect our culture. I think there’s a balance and there’s a feeling that people will respect people from everywhere.
“The safety and security of every single fan is of the utmost importance to us. There’s a lot of training going into security personnel to make sure that things that are culturally different are seen in that frame.
“Public display of affection is frowned upon, it’s not part of our culture – but that goes across the board to everybody.”
