FIFA must pause the process to select Saudi Arabia as the 2034 World Cup host unless significant human rights reforms are made, according to Amnesty International. Despite being the only bidder after the 2030 World Cup was awarded, serious concerns about discrimination and worker exploitation have been raised. FIFA’s upcoming Congress will address these matters amid strict scrutiny over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
Amnesty International and the Sport & Rights Alliance urge FIFA to pause the selection process for Saudi Arabia as the 2034 World Cup host. They emphasize the need for substantial human rights reforms before any decisions are made. Following the award of the 2030 World Cup to Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, concerns arise over Saudi Arabia’s capacity to meet FIFA’s requirements. Their report highlights the risk of severe human rights violations, predicting exploitation for migrant workers and discrimination against fans, especially those in the LGBTQ community. FIFA plans to release bid evaluation reports prior to their December Congress, but the spotlight remains on Saudi Arabia’s commitment to human rights as they prepare for the tournament.
The bid for the 2034 World Cup by Saudi Arabia comes amid accusations of human rights violations within the kingdom. With FIFA recently awarding the 2030 edition to a coalition of countries, this singular bid raises questions about Saudi Arabia’s adherence to international human rights standards. Amnesty International’s scrutiny is focused on the treatment of migrant workers in construction, the risk of discrimination, and the suppression of free speech amidst Saudi Arabia’s ambitions for a reformed global image, making this topic a poignant aspect of the upcoming decision-making process.
In light of Amnesty International’s assessment, FIFA faces a critical moment in determining whether to endorse Saudi Arabia as the host of the 2034 World Cup. Without clear commitments to human rights reforms, the repercussions could be dire, from exploitation of migrant workers to oppression of LGBTQ fans. As the world watches, the outcome of FIFA’s deliberations will not only impact the future of football but also send resonant messages regarding human rights accountability in global sporting events.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
