Experts call on FIFA to conduct independent human rights audit ahead of Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup Bid

As Saudi Arabia nears confirmation to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, experts and activists are urging FIFA to conduct a thorough and independent review of the kingdom’s human rights record. Legal and human rights experts, along with Saudi activists, have called for strict oversight on Saudi Arabia’s human rights commitments related to the tournament.

Concerns revolve around Saudi Arabia’s track record on freedom of expression, migrant worker rights, and gender discrimination. Organizations like Human Rights Watch have highlighted potential abuses, particularly regarding labor conditions for migrant workers involved in World Cup infrastructure projects.

Critics also point out the lack of significant progress on human rights reforms under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and they call on FIFA to ensure that the country meets basic human rights standards before confirming its bid to host the 2034 event. These calls follow similar criticisms faced by Qatar during the 2022 World Cup.