FIFA is unable of self-regulation; without external reform, human rights abuses will continue to be perpetuated, says new FairSquare report*
A 174-page report prepared by FairSquare* The report says that the internal reforms implemented in 2016 did not improve significantly; the situation even worsened in some areas. The conclusion is that FIFA is incapable of self-regulation; without external reform, human rights abuses will continue to be perpetuated. Full report here.
Power Structure and Patronage System
The report describes a patronage system that prevents FIFA's self-regulation. Senior officials and member associations are immersed in a relationship of mutual dependence, where political support for the FIFA president is incentivized through the distribution of development funds. This system reinforces the concentration of power and lack of transparency, hindering any attempt at internal reform, as occurred in 2016 when FIFA eliminated independent oversight mechanisms, including the dismissal of Miguel Poiares Maduro as head of the Governance Committee and the dissolution of an Independent Human Rights Advisory Council in 2021. More details about Miguel Poiares Maduro´s case.
"It is impossible to be FIFA´s president without spending a few million dollars. We do not know where that money comes from."
Miguel Poiares Maduro.
Social Damage and Human Rights Violations
The report highlights the serious risks that FIFA operations represent for human rights, with the case of Qatar World Cup 2022 a compelling example of negligence by not taking measures to mitigate the risks for migrant workers. Other documented abuses include mass evictions, destruction of livelihoods, police abuse, extrajudicial killings, forced labour, and physical, sexual, and psychological violence. In addition, FIFA has demanded exemptions from labour and tax laws in the countries hosting the tournaments, depriving developing countries of millions in revenue.
Gender Equality and Protection of Athletes: Institutional Neglect
FairSquare It also accuses FIFA of not taking significant measures towards gender equality, nor of establishing a safe protection body for athletes, despite having committed to doing so.
External Reform Proposal
FairSquare maintains that only external reform could correct FIFA's course. It suggests that the European Union (EU) can be key in this intervention, given its ability to legislate in a binding manner and less susceptible to political pressure. This legislation could establish a more effective governance framework, overcoming the failed attempts of 2012 and 2016. To FairSquare, "Football is too important socially, politically and economically to be so poorly governed".
Call to Action
FairSquare sent a letter to FIFA´s President Gianni Infantino with a report summary on October 7, 2024, allowing him to respond. However, the organization has not received a response as of the publication date.
*FairSquare is a nonprofit organization that combines extensive research and advocacy to promote systemic change and stop human rights abuses. FairSquare produces original findings to generate debate and shape narratives in specialist areas: labor migration, political repression and sport. FaisSquare focuses on Europe, the Middle East and South Asia.
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