Separating sport and politics, concentrating only on football - that's what FIFA boss Gianni Infantino wants for the World Cup in Qatar. But his claim is denied. Not only from the fans in the German stadiums, but also from the DFB and other associations.
Despite the appeal by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the German Football Association (DFB) wants to get involved in the human rights debate about host Qatar during the World Cup. "FIFA has repeatedly committed to providing concrete answers to these issues - a compensation fund for guest workers and the concept of a guest worker center to be set up in Doha - and we will continue to push for these to be delivered," wrote the DFB in a statement along with nine other European nations.
"Let's concentrate on football," Infantino wrote in a letter to the associations of the 32 World Cup participants during the week: "Please don't allow football to be dragged into every political and ideological battle."
Nevertheless, they will “support impulses for positive, progressive change and we will continue to work and commit ourselves to a convincing result with regard to the two decisive and open issues,” wrote the DFB and Co. on Sunday. The "significant progress" made by Qatar, particularly with regard to the rights of guest workers, is acknowledged and the "commitments made by the Qatari government and FIFA regarding the safety, protection and inclusion of all fans" are welcomed," it said. They also agree with FIFA that diversity is "a strength".
However, according to the ten national associations, "commitment and advocacy for diversity and tolerance also mean supporting human rights. Human rights are universal and applicable everywhere". They believe "in the power of football to make further positive and credible contributions to progressive and sustainable change".
In addition to Germany, the national associations from Belgium, Denmark, England, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland and Wales signed the statement.
