The decision to award the hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup to Saudi Arabia has fueled much debate and raised considerable issues. Despite its efforts to modernize, Saudi Arabia remains rustic, deeply rooted in strict cultural and spiritual practices that can harm the spirit of the World Cup. According to recent estimates, foreign nationals comprise 37% of Saudi Arabia’s population, reflecting a notable demographic shift influencing cultural norms.
The large expatriate workforce has created tensions between traditional Saudi values and the diverse customs of these foreign workers. Severe restrictions on religious freedom, women’s rights, persecution of LGBTQ people, inflexible legal guidelines, and customs of dominance create an environment that is fundamentally incompatible with the global celebration of diversity and unity that the World Cup represents. This article will discuss why Saudi Arabia doesn’t seem to be the perfect host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Cultural and Religious Homogeneity
Saudi Arabia is a country where Islamic law, or Sharia, governs all elements of existence, from governance to everyday interactions. The country is considered a strict adherence to Wahhabism, a conservative form of Sunni Islam. This cultural and spiritual homogeneity is not always just a social norm but is enforced through regulation. Non-Muslim religious practices are restricted and public presentation of non-Islamic religions is prohibited. The majority of Shia Muslims in Saudi Arabia, around 80%, are Twelvers, primarily residing in the Eastern Province and Madinah.
This consists of a ban on spiritual symbols such as crosses, a ban on non-Muslim religious services, and restrictions on non-Islamic non-secular texts. In terms of ratings, the World Cup is a party on a global scale. It brings together people from all corners of the arena representing a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds.
Restrictions on Women’s Rights
Women’s rights in Saudi Arabia have historically been severely restricted, and while there have been some recent reforms, the scenario is far from the best scenario. However, women in Saudi Arabia are subject to male guardianship, where they need permission from a male family member to make key decisions, including traveling overseas, getting married, or pursuing certain scientific means.
While authorities have in ordinary years allowed girls power and participation in sporting events, these adjustments are regularly seen as superficial and do not address underlying systemic gender inequality. In 2022, women’s participation in the labor force was reported at 37%. Despite this progress, the figure remains low compared to their educational achievements, with women accounting for about 70% of university students.
LGBTQ Rights and Safety
One of the most widespread concerns about Saudi Arabia’s suitability as a World Cup host is its stance on LGBTQ rights. In Saudi Arabia, same-sex relationships are illegal and punishable by intense consequences such as imprisonment, corporal punishment, and in some cases even the death penalty. Reports indicate that executions for homosexuality have taken place, with at least five individuals being executed in 2019 for related offenses.
The LGBTQ network in Saudi Arabia lives in constant fear of persecution, and there is no criminal protection against discrimination based primarily on sexual orientation or gender identification. The FIFA World Cup is an opportunity that should be open and attractive to everyone.
Freedom of Expression and Human Rights
Freedom of speech is severely restricted in Saudi Arabia. The media are tightly controlled by the authorities and any complaint from the ruling family or instructions from the authorities can have harsh consequences along with imprisonment. Activists, reporters, and social media users who speak out against the authorities or advocate for human rights are regularly arrested and detained without a fair trial. The state’s safety rating is 3.9 out of 10, indicating significant problems with arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings.
Lack of freedom stifles the open alternative of ideas and criticism, which is an essential factor in the enjoyment of the World Cup. During the World Cup, fans, journalists, and activists from all over the world come together to share their views, have a good time about their culture, and engage in discussions about the event and its wider implications.
Alcohol Consumption and Public Morality Laws
Saudi Arabia enforces strict laws regarding alcohol consumption and public morality. The sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol is prohibited and violations can lead to heavy penalties. Public behavior is also regulated with strict dress codes and bans on public displays of affection. While precise statistics on alcohol consumption are challenging to obtain due to its illegality, reports suggest a significant underground market.
Estimates indicate that around 5% of the Saudi population may partake in alcohol consumption. These legal guidelines are in strict evaluation of the festive atmosphere usually associated with the World Cup, where fanatics from all over the world gather to rejoice, often in environments where drinking alcohol is part of the social entertainment.
Potential for Cultural Clashes
The World Cup attracts lovers from different cultural backgrounds, each with their own traditions, behaviors, and expectations. In a rustic environment like Saudi Arabia, where cultural and religious norms are strictly enforced, there is a high potential for cultural clashes. What has considered everyday behaviour by fans from one section of the arena is likely to be considered unnecessary or illegal in Saudi Arabia. This should lead to misunderstandings, legal issues, and generally unpleasant usage for many traffic.
Exclusion of non-Muslim and Secular Fans
Saudi Arabia’s spiritual and cultural policy should lead to the exclusion of non-Muslim and secular enthusiasts. The US’s strict enforcement of Islamic practices can also alienate people who no longer share the same ideals. For example, non-Muslim fanatics might find it difficult to navigate prayer plans, dietary Restrictions, and unworldly Rites. Secular fans who may not follow any religion can also experience problems in an environment where spiritual practices are woven into the fabric of daily existence.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup can present a lot of challenges. The World Cup follows the pattern of global unity and values that are at odds with the restrictive environment in Saudi Arabia. From a lack of spiritual freedom and gender inequality to the persecution of LGBTQ individuals, these issues make Saudi Arabia the wrong host for the FIFA World Cup. The world’s most famous sporting event must be held in a region that holds the spirit of inclusiveness and respect for every person regardless of their background.
