By love-89.com In light of recent developments, the Gulf kingdom stands as the sole bidder for the 2034 World Cup, but serious questions about human rights practices in Saudi Arabia are resurfacing. I’m here with Ambet Yuson, the General Secretary of the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI), a trade union that has previously collaborated with FIFA on governance reforms. Ambet, can you share your thoughts on the current situation, particularly regarding the treatment of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia?
Ambet Yuson: Absolutely. We’ve raised concerns that FIFA is not adequately addressing human rights risks associated with holding major tournaments in Saudi Arabia. Just two months prior to likely confirmation of the World Cup hosting, our attempts to discuss the exploitation of migrant workers have been largely ignored.
Could you elaborate on the complaints you submitted to the International Labour Organisation?
Yuson: Yes, in June we reported what we termed an “epidemic of abuses” against migrant workers in the region. A troubling case involves thousands of Filipino workers who have gone without wages for years due to the failure of their former employers to pay them. Despite repeated requests for FIFA to engage with us on these critical issues and to establish strict conditions for hosting, we’ve received no response.
What does this imply for FIFA’s process in awarding the World Cup to Saudi Arabia?
Yuson: It’s alarming. FIFA is conducting a bidding process without what we consider a robust assessment of human rights conditions. Moving forward with Saudi as a host could leave a “permanent stain” on the integrity of sports. It appears that FIFA is effectively endorsing exploitation and injustice on a global platform.
In your opinion, what actions should FIFA take now in light of these findings?
Yuson: First and foremost, FIFA needs to take accountability. No credible assessment of Saudi’s human rights plans can be completed without input from independent organisations working on the ground. The time for action is now—before any decision is finalized and what we have witnessed becomes an irreversible blemish on the world of sport.
I understand that your concern has garnered attention from a group of lawyers who are also critical of FIFA’s engagement. Can you tell us about that?
Yuson: Indeed, just recently, a collective of prominent lawyers, including a former chair of FIFA’s independent governance committee, expressed frustration with FIFA’s failure to engage on critical legal submissions regarding human rights. Their response to these serious charges was described as “not good enough,” indicating a troubling trend in FIFA’s governance.
What specific numbers illustrate the gravity of the situation regarding migrant workers?
Yuson: The BWI’s complaint highlighted abuses affecting around 21,000 migrant workers, including those from countries such as the Philippines, Nepal, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Many have experienced severe delays in wage payments—some of which extend for years. For example, nearly 8,830 Filipino workers from the now-defunct Saudi Oger company were reportedly left unpaid. Of that, only 1,352 have received any compensation, which has forced some workers to take out loans just to make ends meet.
Given the surrounding context, what do you think are the next steps for FIFA?
Yuson: As Saudi Arabia is about to be confirmed as the host in December, it’s crucial that FIFA incorporates insights from trade unions and international NGOs that are barred from operating within the kingdom. Article 7 of FIFA’s human rights policy emphasizes the importance of engaging with relevant authorities and stakeholders to uphold international human rights responsibilities. It’s time for FIFA to demonstrate that commitment decisively.
Thank you, Ambet, for shedding light on this critical issue. Your insights bring much-needed attention to the complexities surrounding the upcoming tournament and the rights of workers involved.