Laughter in the Desert: Comedians Help Saudi Royalty Whitewash Brutal Autocracy's Image
Top comedians are using their platforms to help improve Saudi Arabia's reputation through its new comedy festival, which has raised eyebrows due to the country's human rights record and its relationship with the US military. The event is state-sponsored and marks a shift in how Riyadh presents itself as an open and accepting society.
America's top comedians are lending their talents to Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Comedy Festival, a state-sponsored event that aims to improve the brutal autocracy's reputation on the global stage, despite concerns over human rights and censorship. The festival is seen as part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to rebrand itself as a modern and progressive nation. Many of the comedians who are performing at the festival have previously faced backlash for their views or jokes that criticize the Saudi government. By participating in the festival, these comedians risk being associated with the regime despite their own values and intentions.
