Summary:
- FIFA has confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 World Cup, highlighting its growing influence in world sports despite ongoing human rights criticisms.
- The English Football Association (FA) received assurances from Saudi Arabia that LGBTQ+ fans will be “safe and welcome” during the event.
- Human rights organizations have criticized FIFA’s decision, pointing to Saudi Arabia’s poor human rights record, including laws against LGBTQ+ individuals.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that the organization is “inclusive” and trusts Saudi Arabia to address concerns and deliver a successful World Cup.
FIFA’s decision to award Saudi Arabia the hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup has sparked significant global debate, with human rights concerns once again taking center stage. The announcement, made on December 11, 2024, underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in international sports but also raises questions about the nation’s human rights record, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
The English Football Association (FA) revealed that it had sought and received assurances from Saudi officials that LGBTQ+ fans would be “safe and welcome” during the tournament. In a statement, the FA emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion, stating, “Football is a global game and is for everyone. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion means being respectful of all, including all religions and cultures.” The FA expressed hope that hosting the World Cup could act as a catalyst for positive change in Saudi Arabia.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino echoed similar sentiments during the announcement, describing FIFA as an “inclusive” and “non-discriminatory” organization. He acknowledged criticisms and concerns but expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia’s ability to deliver a World Cup that meets expectations.
However, Saudi Arabia’s track record on LGBTQ+ rights remains a contentious issue. Homosexuality is illegal in the kingdom under its strict interpretation of Sharia law, with punishments ranging from imprisonment to capital punishment. Advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights is also prohibited, and public expressions of non-conforming gender identities are criminalized. Despite these laws, Saudi authorities have recently taken steps to present a more welcoming image to international visitors. In 2023, the Saudi Tourism Authority updated its policies to state that all visitors, including LGBTQ+ individuals, would be welcome in the country. However, enforcement of anti-LGBTQ+ laws remains inconsistent.
Human rights organizations have criticized FIFA’s decision to award the tournament to Saudi Arabia without securing concrete commitments for reform. Amnesty International called FIFA’s evaluation of Saudi Arabia’s bid a “whitewash,” highlighting severe risks of exploitation and discrimination against marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals and migrant workers. A joint statement from global human rights groups warned that hosting the World Cup in Saudi Arabia without meaningful protections risks tarnishing the event with repression and abuse.
This decision follows similar controversies surrounding Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 World Cup, where human rights issues dominated discussions. Critics argue that FIFA has failed to enforce its own human rights policies by prioritizing financial and geopolitical interests over ethical considerations.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup also comes alongside FIFA’s confirmation of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal as joint hosts for the 2030 tournament, with three matches set to take place in South America. These decisions reflect FIFA’s broader strategy of expanding its global reach but also highlight ongoing tensions between sports diplomacy and human rights advocacy.
As preparations for the 2034 World Cup begin, all eyes will be on Saudi Arabia to see whether it can deliver on its promises of inclusivity while addressing longstanding human rights concerns. The tournament represents both an opportunity for reform and a test of FIFA’s commitment to upholding its stated principles of equality and non-discrimination.
Source: France24
