Often people complain about the repression in so-called Islamic nations, and often people hit back that they aren’t all the same. They aren’t, but taking measures like banning a celebration of other people’s faith just sends the message of how repressive you are.

Recently, the Kingdom of Brunei banned the celebration of Christmas within its borders. Whilst Christians would be allowed to celebrate within their own communities, they have to alert authorities beforehand- and the country’s majority Muslim population are to be shielded from the Christmas festivities, as it might ‘damage their faith’.

With two days to the Christian’s major celebration, Somalia has followed Brunei’s lead, and introduced their own ban- very similar in wording to the statement Brunei released announcing their ban.

“All events related to Christmas and New Year celebrations are contrary to Islamic culture, which could damage aqidah (faith) of the Muslim community.” Director General of Somalia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Khayrow said in a statement, according to the Daily Mail.

“There should be no activity at all.”

Somalia has in recent times been hit by terrorist attacks, and another rationale for the ban is that gatherings would serve as a ripe grounds for Al Shabab attacks.

Banning a segment of the population from exercising their religious freedom is exactly what could make outsiders say you culture is repressive.