Ten of the teams taking part in the 2022 Men’s World Cup have demanded further action from FIFA and the Qatari government on human rights in that nation. Belgium, Denmark, England, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, and Wales issued a joint statement on SUN 06 NOV 2022 calling for improved treatment of migrant workers in Qatar, and further commitments from FIFA on human rights.

The proclamation comes shortly after FIFA issued a letter to the 32 teams in the Men’s World Cup, asking them to “focus on the football”. Although labour laws in Qatar have improved since the nation was awarded hosting rights in 2010, a recent report from Amnesty International found that migrant workers in Qatar still face problems including unpaid wages, refusal of days off, and unsafe working conditions.

In their statement, the ten football associations advocate for further progress, and additional action on two specific issues: a compensation fund for migrant workers killed or injured while on the job, and the establishment of an assistance centre for migrant workers.