Ambassador of Qatar to Germany, Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, speaks at the conference.
Frankfurt: 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 Qatar 2022 World Cup, which will be held later this year.
At 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, appreciated the reforms carried out by Qatar with regard to workers' rights, and said that the main task is to push towards building a long-term positive legacy after the end of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
He also highlighted the procedures followed by FIFA for the protection of workers involved in the construction of World Cup projects, the protection of fans, and other individuals involved in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which are taken in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, and in cooperation with labour unions and independent observers.
Graf noted that the protection programme focuses on companies involved in the construction of infrastructure for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, including stadiums and training venues, as well as service providers involved in the provision of the championship, such as hotels, security, and transportation.
The FIFA official 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.
He added 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 Ambassador of Qatar to Germany, Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani.
The conference also witnessed the participation of the Secretary General of the 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, as well as 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.
