Migrant Workers’ Concerns Over 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia

The decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia has raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of migrant workers, according to an article by The Guardian.

Millions are expected to be employed in constructing stadiums, transport networks, and hotels. Reports indicate that many workers face dire conditions, including exploitation, unpaid wages, and unsafe living environments.

From 2008 to 2022, over 13,000 Bangladeshi workers reportedly died in Saudi Arabia, with a high number of unexplained fatalities. Human rights organizations warn that the upcoming World Cup could exacerbate these issues, predicting increased exploitation and potential fatalities among migrant laborers.

Despite Saudi Arabia’s assurances of improved worker protections as part of their World Cup bid, testimonies from deported workers reveal systemic abuse, including false contracts and substantial recruitment debts. The country’s reliance on cheap labor from nations like Bangladesh, India, and Nepal remains a critical factor in the World Cup preparations, raising ethical questions about the human cost of such mega-events.