Amnesty International Flags Risks in 2030 World Cup Bids

Amnesty International has called on FIFA to “rigorously and transparently ensure” that bids to host the 2030 and 2034 men’s World Cups safeguard human rights. In a new report, the campaign group insists that FIFA “must terminate any agreement to host the tournament if human rights are jeopardized or violated.” FIFA selected Spain, Portugal and Morocco for the 2030 World Cup with the opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. Saudi Arabia is the sole bidder for the 2034 tournament. FIFA commits to rights and sustainability, but Amnesty highlights Saudi’s record and risks in 2030 Cup, including labor and discrimination.

Amnesty claims that FIFA has not responded to its requests to consult with those involved in human rights-based assessments of the bids. FIFA, which is set to formally confirm the hosts of the two tournaments later this year, has reiterated its commitment to “sustainable event management standards and practices, safeguarding principles for the protection of children and adults at risk, and respecting internationally-recognized human rights in accordance with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.” It also stated it would conduct a targeted dialogue with bidders to ensure comprehensive bids that meet minimum hosting requirements.

Amnesty’s Steve Cockburn doubts FIFA’s human rights pledges due to bid issues. He stressed FIFA’s decisions’ impact, stating the World Cup can promote dignity or foster exploitation and repression. Amnesty International highlights migrant exploitation, police force risks, and racial discrimination in Spain, Morocco and Portugal bids. The group noted FIFA’s concerns on Morocco’s 2026 bid, citing issues with criminalizing same-sex acts and restricting expression. President Patrice Motsepe hailed the 2030 bid for uniting Africa and Europe, boosting football growth in Africa.

Amnesty criticizes Saudi Arabia’s investment in sport as a distraction from its poor human rights record, citing potential risks of forced evictions and labor abuses in the lead-up to the 2034 tournament. It also points out entrenched discrimination in Saudi legislation and practices, which could affect fans, workers, players and journalists. Women fans, in particular, face unfair prosecution, and there have been widespread arrests of journalists and activists. Amnesty urges Saudi Arabia to reform labor laws and release imprisoned activists to prevent World Cup human rights violations.

Last year, the Saudi Sports Minister rejected allegations of ‘sportswashing’ and defended the country’s right to host the 2034 tournament. Speaking to the BBC, he cited hosting 85 global events and the bid’s role in modernizing the country through sports. Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal noted room for improvement, saying events drive reform for a better future.