The FIFA Congress is on the brink of a monumental decision, yet the stakes are higher than ever. Amnesty International and the Sport & Rights Alliance (SRA) have issued a grave warning – unless Saudi Arabia commits to significant human rights reforms before the vote next month, FIFA must pause the selection process for the hosts of the 2034 World Cup.
Here’s why:
- Lack of Commitment to Human Rights Standards: Neither Saudi Arabia nor the joint bid of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal have presented credible human rights strategies in their bids, failing to meet the rigorous standards set by FIFA. The implications of this oversight are dire.
- Amnesty and the SRA’s assessment reveals that Saudi Arabia poses greater risks, with potential severe and widespread human rights violations.
- Without proper reform guarantees, awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia would lead to discrimination against fans, exploitation of migrant workers, and ultimately, loss of lives.
- Bid Evaluation Reports: FIFA has announced that bid evaluation reports for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups will be disclosed before the upcoming extraordinary Congress. However, until both countries demonstrate concrete human rights protections, the selection process must be halted.
- The bidding process must reflect the same stringent criteria applied to previous World Cup selections, such as the 2026 edition.
- Ensuring the protection of human rights should be a non-negotiable prerequisite for hosting global sporting events of this magnitude.
Discrimination Concerns:
- The LGBTQ community has expressed concerns about potential discrimination and safety issues in Saudi Arabia, prompting calls for reassurance.
- While Saudi Arabia has made assurances of creating an inclusive environment free from discrimination, skepticism remains over its ability to protect LGBTQ individuals.
Migrant Workers:
- The magnitude of Saudi Arabia’s World Cup preparations, including stadium construction and hotel accommodations, necessitates a significant influx of migrant workers.
- Concerns over worker exploitation, occupational safety, wages, and death prevention mirror the issues seen in Qatar, hosting the 2022 World Cup.
- Saudi Arabia’s bid book acknowledges the importance of upholding standards but falls short of addressing the urgent need for reform in labor practices.
Free Speech Repression:
- Amnesty’s report highlights the ongoing repression of free speech in Saudi Arabia, exemplified by the imprisonment of individuals for mere expressions of dissent.
- The lack of serious commitment to reform in this crucial area underscores the need for a complete overhaul of human rights practices before awarding the World Cup bid to Saudi Arabia.
As Saudi Arabia strives to reshape its global image into a tourism and entertainment destination, the road to FIFA’s approval must not come at the expense of basic human rights. The decision to award the 2034 World Cup must be underpinned by a steadfast commitment to upholding dignity, equality, and the protection of all individuals. Let us not overlook the human cost in pursuit of sporting glory. FIFA, the time for decisive action is now.
