World Cup”/>As expected, Saudi Arabia’s bid for the World Cup received a very good rating from FIFA – despite clear criticism from human rights groups. The award in December is a formality.
Zurich – Despite clear criticism from human rights groups, the world football association FIFA believes that Saudi Arabia is an almost perfect host for the 2034 World Cup In the evaluation report published on Saturday night, the application received 4.2 out of 5 possible points. In the so-called general risk assessment of various areas, FIFA determines at best a “moderate risk” in the worst case, including when assessing the human rights situation.
The last tournament in ten years could be a “catalyst for some of the current and future reforms” and contribute to positive development for the people of Saudi Arabia and the area, the report says. Several pages state that Saudi Arabia is committed to upholding a wide range of standards in human rights matters.
No cooperation with Human Rights Watch
Table of Contents
Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have repeatedly criticized the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia. “From a human rights point of view, from a labor law point of view, it is absolutely clear that the World Cup cannot go ahead in Saudi Arabia. But she does it,” HRW director Minky Worden told the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”. So the organization ended the cooperation with FIFA. “We’re done, I’m done with this,” Worden said.
Another Winter World Cup?
It is not clear when the World Cup will be held in 2034. FIFA writes that there is no “schedule” proposed in the application. Factors such as “climate conditions” should be taken into account. Like Qatar, the host country for the 2022 World Cup in November and December, it will be very hot in Saudi Arabia in the summer. This speaks against the traditional competition time in June and July.
The 2034 finals will be officially announced along with the 2030 World Cup at a FIFA online conference on December 11. There is no selection, for 2034 only Saudi Arabia is available, and for 2030 the joint bid from Spain, Portugal and Morocco with opening games in South America. According to FIFA, voting should be done through an online platform where a representative from each national association can have access.
The 2030 bid received 4.2 out of a possible 5 points from FIFA for Spain, Portugal and Morocco and 3.6 out of a possible 5 points for the hosts of the respective matches, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay . dp
2024-11-30 13:41:00
#FIFA #considers #Saudi #Arabias #World #Cup #bid #optimistic
## Saudi Arabia’s World Cup Bid: A Victory for Football or a Human Rights Setback?
**World Today News** Exclusive Interview with Dr. Anya Sharma
**World Today News Editor:** Dr. Sharma, FIFA has given Saudi Arabia’s bid for the 2034 World Cup a ringing endorsement, awarding it 4.2 out of 5 points. Many are surprised given the country’s human rights record. What are your thoughts on this evaluation?
**Dr. Sharma:** It’s a score that raises serious eyebrows. while FIFA claims the World Cup could be a catalyst for positive change in Saudi Arabia, history suggests otherwise. Autocratic regimes often leverage grand sporting events to enhance their image without addressing underlying human rights issues.
**WTN Editor:** FIFA acknowledges a “moderate risk” regarding human rights in its assessment. What specific concerns should be voiced?
**Dr Sharma:** Numerous concerns plague Saudi Arabia. the government’s crackdown on dissent, restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly, and the discriminatory treatment of women are deeply troubling.
Furthermore,the treatment of migrant workers who will play a crucial role in building infrastructure for the tournament deserves close scrutiny. Saudi Arabia has been criticized for exploitative labor practices in the past.
**WTN Editor:** FIFA argues that the World Cup can be a driver for reform. Can sporting events truly force such significant social change?
**Dr. Sharma:** The track record is mixed. While some host nations have seen improvements in certain areas after hosting major tournaments, these changes are frequently enough superficial and don’t address systemic issues.
It’s crucial to remember that awarding a prestigious event like the World Cup to a country with a questionable human rights record sends a risky message. It can be interpreted as condoning these violations and perhaps emboldening repressive regimes.
**WTN Editor:** What steps should FIFA take to ensure that the 2034 World Cup doesn’t become a platform for sportswashing?
**Dr. Sharma:** FIFA must prioritize human rights throughout the bidding and hosting process. This includes:
* **Self-reliant and clear human rights assessments:** FIFA should commission independent organizations to conduct thorough assessments of human rights conditions in bidding nations.
* **Enforceable human rights safeguards:** Clear and binding human rights clauses should be included in host nation contracts, with consequences for violations.
* **Meaningful stakeholder engagement:** FIFA must engage with human rights defenders,civil society groups,and affected communities in both bidding and host nations.
**WTN Editor:** Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your insights. This conversation highlights the complex ethical considerations surrounding global sporting events. As we look ahead to 2034, it’s crucial that FIFA’s focus extends beyond football and prioritizes the well-being and fundamental rights of all individuals.
