In an attempt to curb what is considered a western cultural influence, Prosecutor General Ghorban Ali Dori Najafabadi strongly criticized the Barbie as an immoral western influence on the minds of Iranian children. Although not outlawed, the government is strongly urging Iranians not to invest in the toy. The initial problems with the mini-skirt sporting Barbie began in 2002, when Iran created a new version of Barbie and Ken; Sara and Dara, wearing modest clothing and promoting family ideas. But the new and improved Iranian version has been unable to curb the influx of the original Barbie.
For similar reasons, Saudi Arabia banned the sale of Barbies in the kingdom in 2003. For other Middle Eastern countries, the “Fulla” was crafted as an alternative, instead wearing culturally acceptable clothing and advising culturally acceptable morals specific to the countries it was sold in.
The Barbie, which in past years (even in the United States) has been seen as an influential toy on the development of young girl’s perceptions of the perfect individual as tall, skinny, and pretty, has in Iran become a symbol of Western influence. As Najafabadi explains "Undoubtedly, the personality and identity of the new generation and our children, as a result of unrestricted importation of toys, has been put at risk and caused irreparable damages," as the toy, among others, brings Western culture to a country which struggles to hold on to its own cultural and religious identity during a period of globalization.
1 comment:
Iran is a nation where you wear sequined midriff tops under a floor length black cover. You pray to the Koran at the dictated times but then indulge in alcohol and sex at the underground nightclubs. This is a political statement of anti-Western thought and by no means is an attempt to protect a woman's image. Barbie is the ultimate achievement in the fashion world and feminist movement. Only Barbie is fabulous enough to balance being a doctor, a lawyer, Madame President while still looking perfectly permed and manicured. Under the Shah's reign Barbie was imported by the ton-load. To dismiss her existence and ban her sale is just another pathetic attempt to prevent the inevtiable student-revolution against the totalitarian regime. Javid Shah and Javid Barbie!
Post a Comment