The crackdown on rap is part of a broader wave of restrictions imposed by Libya’s eastern authority. [Getty]
Authorities in eastern Libya have imposed a sweeping ban on rap music, the latest move in a broader crackdown on artistic expression in the conflict-riven country.
In a decree issued by the Interior Ministry, officials cited “the spread of rap songs, some of which contain obscene words” as justification for the censorship.
The ministry claimed such lyrics violate “the moral values of Libyan Muslim society”. It warned that rap music could ‘corrupt’ youth, inciting them to “sex work, suicide, or rebellion against family and society.”
The order goes beyond just rap, extending to all theatrical and dance performances unless explicitly approved by the government.
Under the new restrictions, rappers must seek permission from the Culture Ministry and other relevant bodies before performing or sharing their work.
Officials framed the measure as consistent with Libyan law, which, they said, guarantees freedom of expression so long as it does not contradict public morals or Islamic principles.
Yet for many artists, the decree marks a return to old patterns of suppression.
Music bans in Libya
Libya has a long and complicated history with music censorship.
During Muammar Gaddafi’s 42-year rule, non-Arabic music and genres deemed Western-influenced were banned. Despite these restrictions, underground music scenes flourished, particularly among the Libyan diaspora.
Libyan musicians abroad, especially in Europe, produced protest songs and rap tracks that resonated with young Libyans, gaining momentum during the 2011 uprising when the genre became a powerful tool for dissent and revolution.
However, the post-revolution period has brought its own set of challenges. The initial burst of artistic freedom was soon curbed by new restrictions, forcing many musicians into silence or exile due to security concerns.
Youssef Ramadan Said, a rapper known as MC Swat, fled Libya in 2017 after what he described as years of arrests, home raids, and harassment by authorities over his music and political views.
“I’m willing to not use obscene words, but would I be allowed to express my opinions freely? I won’t respect their laws as long as I’m not guaranteed my rights,” he wrote on social media in response to the new ban.
Other Libyan rappers have taken a more conciliatory approach, seeing the decision as an opportunity to negotiate their role in society.
“This could be a step to recognise rappers in Libya. I’m willing to change my (writing) style to respect society’s values and (…) hope it won’t restrict our freedoms”, commented Libyan rapper MC Mego on social media.
“I just hope the decision was coming from the Culture Ministry, not the Interior one,” added the Tunisia-based rapper.
The crackdown on rap is part of a broader wave of restrictions imposed by Libya’s eastern government.
Last month, authorities banned New Year’s celebrations, deeming them un-Islamic.
Meanwhile, in western Libya, the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity has also tightened its grip on social norms, reviving a “morality police” force tasked with enforcing dress codes, policing “strange” haircuts, and mandating male guardians for women.
For Libyan artists, the space for creative expression is rapidly shrinking, as political factions seek to control the cultural landscape.
In Libya, two rival authorities are vying for legitimacy and control.
In the east, the House of Representatives (HoR) operates alongside the Libyan National Army (LNA) led by General Khalifa Haftar.
In the west, the Government of National Unity (GNU), based in Tripoli, functions as the internationally recognised government.Â
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has warned that in Libya, individuals are often forced to align with one of the warring parties to ensure their safety.
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