The football official advocating for Fifa to uphold its promises regarding human rights in Qatar has urged the organization to make public its findings on potential shortcomings at the World Cup.
Lise Klaveness, the president of the Norwegian Football Federation, wrote to Fifa a year ago calling for an inquest into the legacy left by the Qatar World Cup and specifically, a lack of financial remedy for mistreated migrant workers. In response the Fifa president, Gianni Infantino, commissioned a report from the organisation’s human rights and social responsibility subcommittee. That report is yet to arrive with Klaveness arguing that a lack of transparency over publication speaks to a broader problem within Fifa.
Klaveness, speaking to the Guardian, expressed our eagerness for the report. Though we did not receive any official updates, we had heard through unofficial sources that it would be ready by Christmas. However, it was not, and now we are even more impatiently awaiting its release. It has been a year since the World Cup and it is time for the report to be revealed.
“I believe the deadline is approaching,” stated Klaveness. “It’s crucial for it to be clear and at the moment, we are uncertain of when or how it will be released. I think it would be beneficial for Fifa to utilize this approach in addressing the issue, by being consistent and transparent as it is now a necessary aspect of their responsibilities, and to provide a transparent report.”
The decision to award Qatar as the host for the 2022 World Cup sparked controversy due to the mistreatment of migrant workers, which raised international concerns. In response to pressure, Fifa initially showed willingness to provide financial compensation for injured workers or the families of those who had lost their lives. However, this stance shifted during the tournament, with Infantino proposing to use a legacy fund for the development of the sport globally instead.
Fifa has implemented the United Nations’ principles on the intersection of business and human rights. Principle 25 specifically states that signatories must take necessary measures to ensure that individuals affected by business operations have access to effective remedies.
Last year, the Norwegian Football Association sent a letter to the secretary general of Fifa stating the importance of showing dedication and adherence to their Human Rights policy in both the present and future. They asked for Fifa to confirm whether they have fulfilled their responsibility to address any issues related to the 2022 World Cup.
Klaveness expressed optimism that the report would provide effective and positive actions, potentially impacting the conversation surrounding Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup. The proposal, unopposed by other nations, is expected to be approved by Fifa in the final quarter of 2020.
According to sources, the Guardian has been informed that a preliminary version of the Qatar report has been presented to Fifa. A specific date for its release has not yet been determined.
Source: theguardian.com
