Original Source: www.insideworldfootball.com
As the FIFA award for the 2034 World Cup approaches in Saudi Arabia, ITUC Africa has raised urgent concerns over the treatment of migrant workers, filing a formal complaint with the United Nations. Representing 18 million workers, ITUC Africa highlights the severe exploitation faced by African migrants under Saudi Arabia’s Kafala system, where they endure wage theft, unsafe conditions, and systemic abuse.
“These workers play vital roles in both their home countries and the Saudi economy,” ITUC stated. They warned that as Saudi Arabia vies for the World Cup, these human rights violations could worsen, leading to more deaths and further exploitation. According to ITUC, this treatment contradicts international human rights laws, notably the UN’s principles on businesses and human rights.
ITUC’s complaints echo the rising international scrutiny over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, as US senators recently urged FIFA to reconsider awarding the tournament to the Kingdom. With Saudi Arabia being the only bidder, FIFA’s upcoming virtual congress will decide the hosts for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups, a decision now clouded by ethical debates.
FIFA insists its bidding process is robust, having commissioned a review by Clifford Chance regarding the bidders’ human rights policies, yet critics argue that the review lacked depth. In a letter to CAF’s president, ITUC expressed the need for stronger action on human rights from FIFA, urging a commitment to justice in football. They stressed that hosting the World Cup should not come at the cost of human dignity.
The plight of migrants, especially Africans, is dire, revealing stories of harassment and discrimination, where they are often silenced through threats. Women, in particular, suffer extensive abuse including harassment and violence, with harrowing consequences for those who dare to speak out. ITUC’s letter likened the tragic fate of an African worker, who died after burning, to a chilling reminder of the risks faced by those who challenge the status quo in pursuit of basic rights.
The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) Africa raises significant alarm over the rights of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia. Long plagued by allegations of abuse under the Kafala system, these workers, particularly from Africa, endure severe exploitation and mistreatment. As Saudi Arabia gears up to possibly host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the scrutiny intensifies regarding its human rights practices, prompting unions and activists to demand accountability amid these systemic challenges.
In summary, as the World Cup approach looms, the spotlight on Saudi Arabia’s treatment of migrant workers becomes increasingly critical. ITUC Africa’s complaint to the UN underscores the dire need for reform and the safeguarding of human rights. With organizations and lawmakers calling upon FIFA to take a stand, it is crucial that the integrity of international events like the World Cup does not overshadow the fundamental rights of those who are vital to their success.
