It is worth noting that FIFA emphasized that its human rights assessment “is not based on the forced exclusion of certain countries based on general human rights conditions” but is “based on evidence of how the sponsor intends to effectively address the human rights risks associated with the tournament.”
Explaining the “medium” human rights risk assessment for Saudi Arabia’s bid, FIFA’s report said: “Implementing the various measures outlined in the human rights strategy, particularly in certain areas, may require a significant investment of effort and time. . .
“However, the substantial work and specific level of commitment demonstrated by the bid and its key stakeholders, as well as the demonstrable pace of progress and the 10-year time horizon, are mitigating factors that need to be considered, as well as the significant opportunities that exist for the bid in Saudi Arabia. and contribute to the country’s broader positive human rights impact within the framework of the Arab Vision 2030.
The FIFA report mentioned that “the government is committed to respecting, protecting and fulfilling internationally recognized human rights in the game, including in the areas of safety and security, labor rights, children’s rights, gender equality and non-discrimination, and the right to freedoms.” )”.
But the review also “highlights areas where further legal reform is needed and mentions the need for effective enforcement, otherwise the risk of indecent working conditions may increase”.
Regarding diversity and anti-discrimination, the report “identifies gaps and reservations in the implementation of relevant international standards, particularly where these standards are deemed to be in conflict with Islamic law… Sponsors are committed to ensuring a safe and An inclusive playing environment without any discrimination. [and]… also committed to review and possibly amend relevant legislation as part of the Government’s commitments in line with international standards.
FIFA claims that “this tournament has the potential to be a catalyst for some ongoing and future reforms and to bring about positive human rights outcomes for the people of Saudi Arabia and the region, beyond the scope of the tournament itself.”
However, earlier this month, campaign group Amnesty International said, external Unless major human rights reforms are announced, the process of selecting Saudi Arabia as host country for 2034 must be halted. It claims hosting the tournament there could lead to serious and widespread human rights abuses.
Human rights, labor and football fans groups including Amnesty International also criticized the approach last month., external A “flawed” independent report published on behalf of Saudi Arabia claims it failed to properly assess the treatment of migrant workers.
FIFA and the Saudi bid declined to comment.
Amnesty International responded to the publication of the report, saying it was: “A shocking whitewash of this country’s atrocious human rights record. There are no meaningful commitments to prevent workers from being exploited, residents from being evicted or movements People were arrested.
“By ignoring clear evidence of serious human rights risks, FIFA is likely to bear significant responsibility for violations and abuses that will occur over the next decade.
“Saudi Arabia urgently needs fundamental human rights reforms, otherwise the 2034 World Cup will inevitably be tainted by exploitation, discrimination and repression.”
Campaign group Fair Square said FIFA had “explored new depths”.
FIFA has been contacted for comment.
