FIFA to tackle Qatar 2022 labour concerns

World football governing body FIFA has pledged to help improve the rights of migrant workers building stadia for Qatar's 2022 World Cup in the wake of threats from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) to disrupt construction plans.

As part of its bid to host the FIFA World Cup, Qatar pledged to build nine new stadiums and refurbish three others, all in the space of 10 years. This work, along with other infrastructure development, is set to see the Gulf state undergo rapid change.

However, concerns have been expressed about working conditions for migrants, which the ITUC recently described as "inhuman".

As a result, FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke met with ITUC officials last week and agreed to raise their concerns with the Qatar tournament organisers.

With strike action affecting a number of venues for Brazil's 2014 World Cup, Valcke added that FIFA would require future World Cup bidders to respect labour issues.

Valcke explained that "it was agreed that FIFA and ITUC will work jointly over the next few months to address labour issues with the Qatari authorities.

"As the world governing body of the most popular sport we have a responsibility that goes beyond the development of football and the organisation of our competitions."

ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow has welcomed FIFA's decision stating that the two parties held a "constructive" meeting.

However, Burrow added "migrant workers in Qatar have no labour rights, wages are exploitative and occupational health and safety risks are extreme. Qatar is a country wanting to gain acceptance from the global community of governments but refuses to acknowledge their treatment of migrant workers.

"The ball is now at the feet of the Qatari Authorities to respect and implement workers' rights. Workers everywhere are entitled to the dignity and respect of Governments and corporations. If the extremely wealthy nation of Qatar wants to host this major international event, we expect civilised treatment of workers."

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