Response by FC Bayern
[Note: This is an unofficial translation from the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre. You can find the original response in German here.]
"We’re seeing a positive development as far as the (current) situation in Doha is concerned. The United Nations Labour Organisation confirmed this in November and officially terminated their investigation into the working and living conditions of guest workers in Qatar. The criticised ‘kafala’ labour system now needs to be phased out gradually. The (German) Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel recently told me that the situation of workers in Qatar has improved through football, although of course there is room for further improvement. As a representative of the whole football family, FC Bayern plays its part towards ensuring this can be achieved. We are engaged in a global competition with the best European clubs. But our partners in Doha are also aware of our beliefs. We talk about these matters confidentially, and trust continues to grow with every conversation. That is the most important prerequisite for change."