Saudi Arabia, the country that is trying too hard to rebrand itself as contemporary by opening avenues for tourism, sports, etc, has labelled feminism, atheism and homosexuality as ¡°extremist ideas.¡±
A promotional video pushed by Saudi Arabia's state security agency categorises feminism, homosexuality and atheism as extremist ideas, even as the conservative Muslim kingdom seeks to promote tolerance and attract foreigners.
The animated clip posted on Twitter during the weekend by a verified account of the State Security Presidency said "all forms of extremism and perversion are unacceptable".
It listed those concepts alongside takfir - the practice of labelling followers of other schools of Islam unbelievers.
AP
"Don't forget that excess of anything at the expense of the homeland is considered extremism," said the promo's voice over.
Over the last couple of years, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has pushed for a more moderate form of Islam and promoted nationalist sentiment, as part of plans to open the country.
The reforms introduced in the kingdom over the years have given some relaxation to the social life. People were forced to maintain two lifestyles ¨C one inside their homes and one in public sphere. In cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, the atmosphere is comparatively relaxed.
Saudi Arabia is preparing to take over the presidency of the Group of 20 countries next year. The country has loosened social restrictions and launched a tourist visa and has chipped away the guardianship system that assigns each woman a male relative to approve important decisions throughout their lives.
Alongside, the authorities have also been leading a severe crackdown on voices of dissent arresting scores of critics including clerics, intellectuals and activists.
Reuters
According to Reuters, close to a dozen women's right advocates were detained weeks before a ban on women driving - which they had campaigned against - was lifted last year. ¡°Activists and diplomats speculated that may have been a message that reform would happen only at the government's initiative,¡± said the report.
Women were reportedly arrested on the suspicion of Saudi interests and offering support to hostile elements abroad. Some of the charges relate to their rights work.
Homosexuality and atheism have remained illegal and are punishable by death in the absolute monarchy. Public protests and political parties are banned and there is a strict control over media.
Under the Saudi law, supporting groups classified as extremist organisations can lead to imprisonment.