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Upload a Spoof Video, Go To Jail (In Dubai)

Posted by timothy on from the little-touchy dept.

Taco Cowboy writes with news, as reported by the BBC, that eight people have been imprisoned in Dubai for creating a spoof video about youth culture in that country, for which they were accused of acting "with the intent of inciting to actions, or publishing or disseminating any information, news, caricatures, or other images liable to endanger state security and its higher interests or infringe on the public order." "The video, posted to YouTube, was a gentle satire on young men in the Satwa residential suburb of Dubai who adopt a 'gangsta' pose despite living the sedate, prosperous lifestyle more usually associated with Dubai residents."

4 of 107 comments (clear)

  1. Re:It reminds me of the US by Baloroth · · Score: 5, Insightful

    As an American, it's hard to criticize Dubai when kids in the US getting expelled from school and/or arrested over the content of their jokes or writing assignments.

    No, it's still very easy to criticize. Just make sure you criticize everyone who acts like that.

    --
    "None can love freedom heartily, but good men; the rest love not freedom, but license." --John Milton
  2. Re:It reminds me of the US by jklovanc · · Score: 5, Insightful

    There is a major difference between a couple of days off school and 8 months in prison and a permanent criminal record. Yes there have been some questionable arrests but I have yet to see convictions and prison sentences in the US.

    Any country that can not take a little criticism of their youth really needs to take a hard look at themselves. The only way to change bad things is to first admit they are happening.

  3. Dubai jails self for creating bad press for Dubai by WaffleMonster · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Dubai's reaction generated more bad press for themselves and significantly enhanced viewership of a YouTube video nobody should waste their time watching...

    Keep up the good work Dubai.

  4. The UAE is not an open society by bunyip · · Score: 5, Informative

    Don't ever confuse Dubai with an open and modern society. It's a monarchy that needs to hold onto power and does not toerate criticism or free speech of any kind. They walk a fine line between the glamour of business, yet holding onto traditional values and conservatism.

    It's also illegal to kiss in public, even for a married couple. People have been arrested, imprisoned and deported for such indecency.