The Washington Center for Human Rights applauds FIFA’s decision not to make “Visit Saudi” a sponsor for the Women’s World Cup. This decision sends a strong message that human rights abuses and gender inequality will not be tolerated in the world of sports.
Saudi Arabia has a long history of oppressing women and denying them basic human rights. Until recently, women were not allowed to drive or participate in sports. Although some progress has been made, women in Saudi Arabia still face significant barriers to equality and freedom.
Given this context, it is deeply concerning that “Visit Saudi” was even considered as a sponsor for the Women’s World Cup. Allowing Saudi Arabia to promote tourism while women in the country continue to face discrimination would have sent the wrong message to the world.
FIFA’s decision not to include “Visit Saudi” as a sponsor is a victory for human rights and gender equality. It shows that organizations can take a stand against human rights abuses and promote positive change.
This decision is also important in light of recent efforts to hold sports organizations accountable for human rights abuses. In 2020, the World Players Association released a report detailing human rights violations in the sports industry. The report highlighted the need for sports organizations to address human rights abuses and ensure that athletes are not subjected to exploitation and discrimination.
By refusing to include “Visit Saudi” as a sponsor, FIFA has taken a step towards promoting human rights and gender equality in sports. We commend this decision and urge other sports organizations to follow suit. Only by standing together against human rights abuses can we create a more just and equal world for all.