As FIFA prepares for the upcoming events of the World Cup, the selection of host countries often invites scrutiny, which is no longer the easiest in terms of their sporting infrastructure, but also their social values and human rights facts.
Saudi Arabia has shown interest in hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, but the ambition raises huge concerns, particularly when it comes to women’s rights. Despite excellent improvements in recent years, women in Saudi Arabia still face major crimes and societal regulations.
The Historical Context of Women’s Rights in Saudi Arabia
Women in Saudi Arabia have traditionally lived under a machine that imposes strict guardianship laws. These laws require women to obtain permission from a male guardian—usually a father, husband, or brother—for major life decisions, including visiting, getting married, or even undergoing certain clinical procedures. Approximately 35% of women in Saudi Arabia have reported experiencing violence. While legal protections against domestic violence are in place, their enforcement is often inadequate.
Although reforms were introduced, along with the lifting of the ban on horse riding in 2018 and increased participation in the workforce, these changes did not remove deep-rooted patriarchal norms. Women’s rights activists faced much backlash, including arrests and imprisonment, highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality within the Kingdom.
Guardianship Laws
Despite recent reforms, the guardianship system remains a major problem. Women are still regularly required to obtain constant permission from their male guardians to travel, work, or engage in various sports. This undermines their independence and ability to fully participate in society. The experience of fans and players at the World Cup could be seriously compromised if they have to navigate these restrictions.
The Personal Status Law, enacted on March 8, 2022, formalizes the male guardianship system and mandates that women obtain their guardian’s consent for marriage, regardless of their age or previous marital history. In contrast, men do not need to seek such permission.
Employment and Economic Participation
Although the Saudi government has set bold targets for women’s workforce participation, many women face barriers in the labor market. Legal restrictions on certain professions, along with societal expectations and norms, often limit their job opportunities. Hosting the World Cup may require a pool of staff capable of assisting global visitors, but existing restrictions may want to limit women’s participation in this critical region. As of the first quarter of 2024, the labor force participation rate among Saudis stood at approximately 51.4%, reflecting a significant rise in participation rates among women.
Public Participation and Safety
Women in Saudi Arabia regularly experience harassment and discrimination in public spaces. While laws exist to protect girls, their enforcement is inconsistent, and cultural attitudes can often trump protection in prison. This raises concerns about the safety and luxury of female fans attending matches or attending events. Ensuring an inclusive and safe environment for all participants is paramount for an event of this magnitude, but the social context of Saudi Arabia may not offer this assurance either.
International Perception and Reputation
The FIFA World Cup is not always just an occasion; it is a mile platform for showcasing the country’s values and commitment to inclusiveness and human rights. Hosting the event provides an opportunity for nations to bring revolutionary photography to the arena. However, the ongoing problems related to the rights of girls in Saudi Arabia are likely to provoke international complaints and protests.
Activism and Global Response
The global community is increasingly aware of human rights issues, and websites hosting an event such as the FIFA World Cup in a country with widespread rights abuses can lead to widespread activism. Protests from global companies and human rights groups could draw attention to Saudi Arabia’s correction of ladies and overshadow the act of wearing it.
Impact on Attendance and Participation
Issues surrounding ladies’ rights should discourage girl lovers from participating in the tournament. The participation of girls is vital to the inclusiveness of any such international event, and if a large part of the target audience feels unwelcome or unsafe, it undermines the spirit of the World Cup. Capacity resistance to sponsors and groups that choose to attend can also affect attendance and the overall success of the event. By 2008, the establishment of a FIFA-recognized women’s national team was legally prohibited, reflecting the strong opposition from religious and political leaders at the time.
Support for Change
If FIFA chose Saudi Arabia as the host nation, it could inadvertently signal a lack of commitment to women’s rights and inclusivity. On the other hand, choosing the nation with the best music documentary on gender equality sends an effective message that is in line with the spirit of the FIFA World Cup – celebrating not only the sport but also the people who play and watch it.
Support for Dialogue and Reforms
The FIFA selection could also act as a catalyst for substitutes in Saudi Arabia. By stressing advancing conditions for ladies as a prerequisite for a World Cup hosting site, FIFA should inspire the Saudi government to similarly improve girls’ rights. However, this requires a commitment to real reform rather than mere cosmetic changes. To host the 2034 World Cup, Saudi Arabia must showcase its capability to offer at least 12 stadiums, each with a seating capacity ranging from 40,000 to 80,000.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup are overshadowed by serious concerns about girls’ rights. Despite several improvements, the prison and social restrictions common in the kingdom raise numerous questions about inclusivity and protection for the ladies who participate. Choosing a more suitable host, would send a clear message about the importance of these values and reinforce them in the country. By making World Cup hosting contingent on improvements in women’s rights, FIFA could serve as a catalyst for meaningful reform in Saudi Arabia.
