American rapper Macklemore has announced the cancellation of his upcoming October concert in Dubai, citing the United Arab Emirates' alleged involvement in the ongoing crisis in Sudan. The UAE has been accused of supporting the paramilitary force known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been engaged in fighting government troops in Sudan. Despite the UAE's denials of arming the RSF and supporting its leader Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, United Nations experts reported evidence of weapons being sent to the RSF from northern Chad.
The conflict in Sudan escalated in mid-April 2023, resulting in over 18,800 casualties and displacing more than 10 million people, with hundreds of thousands facing famine. The UAE's role in arming the RSF has been a point of contention, with Sudan's government accusing the UAE of fueling the conflict. The UAE has been involved in peace talks to resolve the crisis.
Macklemore's decision to cancel the concert came after receiving requests to show solidarity with the people of Sudan and boycott business in the UAE. The rapper also mentioned his support for Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, expressing concern over performing in a country allegedly involved in human rights violations.
The RSF, originally formed from Janjaweed fighters under former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, has a controversial history linked to crimes during the conflict in Darfur. Dubai, known for its tourism and entertainment industry, has faced criticism for hosting events in a country with strict speech regulations.
Macklemore, a Grammy-winning artist, expressed regret over disappointing his fans but emphasized his stance against performing in the UAE until it ceases support for the RSF. The cancellation of his concert raises questions about the role of artists in promoting social justice and collective liberation.
