Saudi Arabia 2034: Small but vocal opposition from Norwegian & Swiss football associations, Australia Players' Union as bid vote passes
On 11 December Saudi Arabia won its bid to host the 2034 World Cup. The announcement follows extensive criticism from human rights organisations, civil society, trade unions and diaspora groups who have documented egregious violations across the country.
A minority of national football associations have also opposed the vote, including the Norwegian and Swiss associations, though ultimately the Swiss FA did vote for the bid while calling for independent human rights monitoring.
Specifically, we are demanding that FIFA and the organisers set up independent control and appeal bodies, in addition to the International Labor Organization (ILO). The right to freedom of expression and freedom of the press, as well as comprehensive protection against any discrimination during the World Cup, particularly on the basis of gender, sexual orientation and religion, are also fundamental to us. In this regard, too, we believe that FIFA and the organisers have a duty, together with renowned, independent, international organisations, to look closely, observe and monitor that the commitments made to workers, teams, fans and media representatives are maintained.Dominique Blanc, Schweizerischer Fussballverband - SFV (Swiss Football Association) President
The Australian Players' Union has also voiced opposition to the bid and called for the rights of "everyone affected by the 2034 Men's World Cup" to be upheld and safeguarded; the Australian football association joined the majority of international football associations in showing support.
The significant human rights risks linked to this tournament are well-documented. By securing hosting rights to the global game's most prestigious event, Saudi Arabia and FIFA must ensure the rights of everyone affected by the 2034 Men's World Cup are upheld and safeguarded. However, FIFA's ongoing governance failures and lack of accountability to its own human rights commitments leave no assurance that harm can or will be prevented.Beau Busch, Professional Footballers Australia Chief Executive