The Socceroos were commended by the World Cup organisers in Qatar for making a politically charged speech that criticised the country’s record on human rights.
The best footballers from Australia asked that Qatar decriminalise same-sex relationships and strengthen worker rights in a group video statement.
The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, who organised the tournament in Qatar, responded by stating that “no country is flawless.”
Every nation, whether it hosts important events or not, faces difficulties, according to a statement from the committee.
After the final ball is kicked, “This World Cup has contributed to a legacy of growth, improved practise, and improving lives.
When the World Cup begins on November 20, Qatar will make history as the first country from the Middle East to host the event.
Socceroos and other international football players have brought attention to the country’s human rights situation.
The committee stated, “‘We commend footballers using their platforms to raise awareness for vital concerns.
“We have made every effort to make sure that this World Cup has improved life, especially for those involved in building the venues for the competition and non-competition for which we are responsible.
“Our top focus is protecting the health, safety, security, and dignity of every worker who contributes to this World Cup.”
In their statement, the Socceroos, led by captain Mat Ryan, welcomed the Qatari government’s recent labour improvements but noted “their execution remains patchy and requires improvement.”
The Qatari government’s most recent reforms will alter workplace culture, but they will take time to fully implement, according to the cup’s organisers.
“The Qatari government’s labour reforms are acknowledged by the ILO (International Labour Organisation), ITUC, (International Trade Union Confederation) and numerous human rights organisations as the benchmark in the region,” the committee said.
“Robust implementation of labour laws is a global concern, including in Australia. New laws and reforms sometimes take time to bed in.
FIFA officials in Qatar applaud the Socceroos’ human rights film.
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