Why is Lamine Yamal Being Investigated Over Recent Birthday Party?

After Lamine Yamal's one-minute Instagram reel surfaced on the internet, the Barcelona poster boy has been subject to heavy criticism and severe backlash for inviting a group of dwarves as entertainers for his recent birthday party. Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasia (ADEE) has condemned this act, labelling it “discriminatory and derogatory”, and has threatened legal action against the teenager. However, a certain section feels that the dwarves were given ample respect and that they are professional entertainers.

Lamine's 18th star-studded birthday party at Olivella featured many notable names taking centre stage. This included his FC Barcelona teammates, Gavi and Robert Lewandowski and stars like Bizarrap, Bad Gyal, Ibai and many other influencers as well.

Jesus Martin Blanco, the Director General for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Spain's Ministry of Social Welfare, has urged a thorough investigation into this matter.

What could be the legal consequences of this incident?

According to Spain's general laws, dwarfism is legally recognised as a disability. The law prohibits the use of disabled people as a means of entertainment or mockery. Further investigation into this matter will reveal details as to whether the presence of dwarves at the party was a professional engagement or a degrading display.

Regardless of consent from the dwarves, the portrayal, social reaction, and tone would severely impact legal proceedings. The burning question that the internet has been asking is whether a celebrity status outweighs human dignity. We will have to wait for further developments.

As of now, Lamine Yamal has not even issued a public apology. If found guilty of violating the human rights of people with disabilities, he may be fined up to 1 million dollars, depending on the severity of the case.

What has been the immediate reaction to the incident?

ADEE President Carolina Puente said: “It's unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism are still used for entertainment at private parties, particularly when public figures are involved.” She has urged disability rights groups to raise their voice together in the fight to demand dignity for people with disability.

Spain's General Director of Disability, Jesus Martin, stated: “We are concerned that people with money, people with power, believe themselves to be unpunished. The law is for everyone, for the humble and the powerful.” He strongly believes that everyone is equal under the law and that a thorough investigation is necessary to punish the culprits if found guilty.