Episode 230: The Controversy Around the Riyadh Comedy Festival

Ali and Asif have their 3rd “emergency” podcast in as many weeks, as they discuss the controversy surrounding the Riyadh Comedy Festival. They first discuss their own perspectives on Saudi Arabia as they have both been there (and Asif lived there). They then go over the human rights concerns that have been raised over the years regarding Saudi Arabia. Finally they debate and give their thoughts on comedians participating in the festival.  The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at [email protected] Notes:More than money: The geopolitics behind Saudi Arabia’s sports strategy: https://theconversation.com/more-than-money-the-geopolitics-behind-saudi-arabias-sports-strategy-240512Saudi Crown Prince Is Held Responsible for Khashoggi Killing in U.S. Report:https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/26/us/politics/jamal-khashoggi-killing-cia-report.htmlCountries with the lowest Human Rights Index scores as of 2023: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1255578/lowest-human-rights-scores-by-country/?srsltid=AfmBOorNaotUiQBjlDbCNbi9yDi13pfWAagBMLRXDO0eDb0XddJ8d3-YSaudi Arabia: the laws on what women can – and can't – do: https://theweek.com/60339/things-women-cant-do-in-saudi-arabiaWorld Report 2024: Saudi Arabia: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/saudi-arabiaDave Chappelle Criticizes Free Speech in America at Saudi Arabia Comedy Festival: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/dave-chappelle-free-speech-riyadh-saudi-comedy-festival-1236391872/Atsuko Okatsuka Details Comedian “Censorship Rules” at Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Comedy Festival: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/atsuko-okatsuka-riyadh-comedy-festival-censorship-rules-1236387458/At Saudi Comedy Fest, American Free Speech Becomes the Punchline: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/02/world/middleeast/saudi-comedy-festival-riyadh-free-speech.htmlBill Burr Defends Performing at Controversial Riyadh Comedy Festival: “They’re Just Like Us”: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/bill-burr-riyadh-comedy-festival-controversy-1236389190/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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