FIFA Criticized for Not Establishing $440M Fund for World Cup Workers

FIFA has received backlash for failing to create a compensation fund for migrant workers harmed or killed during preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

“FIFA is failing in its human rights responsibilities and showing its disdain for the migrant workers who built the Qatar tournament infrastructure that will fuel its profits,” said Michael Page, deputy Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch.

FIFA has been asked by human rights groups — including Amnesty International, FairSquare, and Human Rights Watch — to match $440 million of World Cup prize money for the proposed fund.

• FIFA said that it was “assessing” the fund but has yet to provide an update.
• The potential fund has been backed by American, French, and English football associations.
• It has also garnered support from World Cup sponsors, including Adidas. 

The 2022 World Cup  — which runs Nov. 20 through Dec. 18 — has been marred by other controversies, particularly Qatar’s race to accommodate the anticipated influx of international soccer fans. The host nation has sold 2.9 million tickets and expects to have over 1 million foreign visitors, but in June, only 90,000 hotel rooms were available throughout host city Doha.

MSC Cruises plans to provide three cruise ships to operate as hotels for the tournament. 

Making the Cut

Qatar Airways has cut flights to 18 destinations to make room for international airlines carrying fans to Hamad International Airport in Doha. Qatar expects roughly 500 daily shuttle flights.