FIFA World Cup: Saudia Arabia named as 2034 host

human rights and labor practices. In the case of Russia, the 2018 World Cup was overshadowed by concerns about the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals and critics of the government, while Qatar’s 2022 tournament has faced scrutiny over worker conditions and the treatment of migrant workers.

Despite these controversies, FIFA has continued to award the World Cup to these nations, claiming that the tournament can have a positive impact on human rights in the host country. However, critics argue that hosting the World Cup in countries with poor human rights records only serves to legitimize and whitewash their actions.

The case of Saudi Arabia is no different. The country’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup has been met with skepticism and concern from human rights groups, who warn of the potential for abuse and exploitation of migrant workers in the construction of stadiums and infrastructure for the tournament. Additionally, there are concerns about press freedom, the rights of women, and the treatment of minority groups in the country.

FIFA’s decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia raises questions about the organization’s commitment to human rights and ethical practices. While FIFA has implemented bidding processes and assessments to evaluate human rights risks in host countries, critics argue that these measures are not sufficient to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.

As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World Cup, it is imperative that the country takes concrete steps to address human rights concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in the tournament. This includes implementing reforms to protect the rights of migrant workers, journalists, women, and minority groups, as well as allowing for independent human rights monitoring within the country.

Ultimately, the decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia highlights the complex relationship between sports, politics, and human rights. As fans around the world eagerly anticipate the tournament, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and hold both FIFA and the host country accountable for their actions. Only by doing so can we ensure that the beautiful game remains a force for good and a platform for positive change in the world.