Tech giant Amazon has restricted goods including books and rainbow-coloured flags for the UAE customers. The decision was made after the firm received threats of penalties from the authorities. LGBTQ is illegal in the Gulf state. It is also considered a crime to be in a same-sex relationship. Even showing support for LGBTQ rights is an offense in the country.
Amazon says, it must comply with local laws
Though, the news comes as Pride month is celebrating LGBT people around the globe. An Amazon spokesperson told the BBC, ‘’ “As a company, we remain committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We believe that the rights of LGBTQ+ people must be protected,”
They added.”With Amazon stores around the world, we must also comply with the local laws and regulations of the countries in which we operate,”
The New York Times story said, “The Emirati government gave Amazon until Friday to comply under threat of penalties, the documents show. It was not clear what those penalties would be,” It was an internal document of Amazon that shows threats from the government for not complying with local rules and laws.
Saudi authorities seize rainbow toys in crackdown
Recently, Saudi Arabia has said rainbow-coloured toys and clothes as part of a crackdown on LGBTQ. The items include hats, pencil cases, skirts and bows manufactured for children.
Commerce industry officials involved in the campaign said in a report. ‘’“We are giving a tour of the items that contradict the Islamic faith and public morals. Also promote homosexual colours targeting the younger generation,”
According to the New York Times, Amazon was under pressure from the UAE government. Therefore, the decision was to avoid penalties from the authorities. Meanwhile, the UAE embassy in Washington did not respond to the request for comment.
