The GIST: FIFA, the international soccer governing body, is facing backlash once again for their controversial decision to award Saudi Arabia the hosting rights for the 2034 men’s World Cup.
Saudi Arabia, a country known for human rights violations, was chosen as the host after submitting the only bid. This move by FIFA comes amidst their efforts to distance themselves from a history of bribery and corruption in the organization.
The decision has raised concerns from twenty-one human rights organizations, criticizing FIFA for putting the safety of workers and fans at risk by choosing Saudi Arabia as the host country.
Saudi Arabia’s plans for the tournament include matches in five cities across 15 stadiums, with the need for major infrastructure development including the construction of 11 new stadiums and the creation of 185,000 hotel rooms. The majority of this work is expected to be carried out by migrant workers.
This decision by FIFA echoes past concerns raised during the preparations for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where reports of migrant worker deaths surfaced. The lack of accountability from FIFA on these issues has only added to the criticism of choosing Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 World Cup.
