Copyright independent
Several prominent comedians, including Dave Chappelle and Pete Davidson, are performing at the Saudi state-sponsored Riyadh Comedy Festival. The festival is part of Saudi Arabia's 'Vision 2030' initiative, which aims to expand its entertainment sector and is reportedly offering comedians substantial payments. The performances have drawn widespread criticism due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record, including the murders of journalists Jamal Khashoggi and Turki al-Jasser, and alleged links to the 9/11 attacks. Some comedians, such as Pete Davidson and Jim Jefferies, have defended their participation by citing the significant financial compensation they receive. Human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch, have warned that the festival is an attempt by Saudi Arabia to 'deflect attention' from its repression of free speech and other human rights violations.
