FIFA hails Qatar's labour rights reforms at Frankfurt conference

 

 

 

FIFA has praised the reforms carried out by Qatar in terms of protecting workers' rights since it won in 2010 the right to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. During a conference on human rights organised by the German Football Association (DFB) in Frankfurt, FIFA's Head of Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Andreas Graf said that the main task is to push towards building a long-term positive legacy after the end of the World Cup 2022, appreciating the reforms carried out by Qatar with regard to workers' rights.He also highlighted the procedures followed by the FIFA for the protection of workers involved in the construction of World Cup projects, the protection of fans, and other individuals involved in the World Cup, which are taken in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, and in co-operation with labour unions and independent observers, as the protection program focuses mainly on companies involved in the construction of infrastructure for the World Cup, including stadiums and training venues, as well as service providers involved in the provision of the championship, such as hotels, security and transportation.Graf confirmed that such initiatives contribute significantly to promoting a frank and fruitful discussion on the steps taken by FIFA officials and their counterparts in Qatar to organise the World Cup in a way that preserves human rights, adding that according to a number of experts and international organisations, the spotlight on Qatar in the context of organising the tournament has promoted positive change, and there is a broad consensus on the need to ensure that the progress made remains after the tournament.The conference witnessed several constructive discussions with the participation of many relevant parties, including representatives of the German Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance, and Qatar's ambassador to Germany Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani.The conference also witnessed interventions by HE the Secretary General at Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Hassan al-Thawadi, via video call, and discussions with Amnesty International Germany, Reporters Without Borders, the Building and Wood Workers' International, and DFB Vice President Shashich, German international player Joshua Kimmich, representatives of football fans, sponsors and other parties.In recent years, FIFA has been keen to work with its member federations and civil society as part of ongoing efforts to encourage discussion, exchange of views and perspectives on human rights in sport, in line with FIFA's human rights policies and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.