Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, told reporters Wednesday that if these issues were not addressed, they risked tarnishing the image of the World Cup, which begins Thursday in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“Major sporting events are supposed to be moments when the world comes together in unity and peace,” he said.
A “dignified and safe” tournament
« The tradition [dans la Grèce antique] wanted this to also lead to all kinds of truces. It is obvious that the World Cup must provide a dignified and safe environment for the competing teams, but also for the fans, for society as a whole and, frankly, for the whole world,” stressed Mr. Türk.
Among the incidents reported regarding entry into US territory, the Iranian national team had to move its training camp from Arizona (United States) to Mexico, with some Iranian officials having been refused visas.
A Somali referee accredited by FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) was refused entry and turned away due to “security concerns”, while footage showed a player Senegalese searched by security personnel on the tarmac of an American airport have been circulated.
Supporters were also affected. Fans from Morocco and Scotland in particular reported that their travel documents had been refused or revoked shortly before their departure, even though they had organized their trip at great expense.
Mr Türk warned that these examples highlighted wider concerns about the enforcement of immigration control measures. He called for policies that respect human rights and dignity, especially during a global event meant to bring people together.
The High Commissioner stressed that major sporting events must provide a safe and inclusive environment for players, fans and officials. He described the World Cup as an opportunity to promote unity, noting that the global dimension of the competition imposed a responsibility on host countries to respect international standards.
Ending dehumanization
These concerns come amid increased scrutiny of human rights issues related to major sporting events and the responsibilities of host countries.
“I also hope that there will be an end to the dehumanization of others, to the dehumanization of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers,” continued Mr. Türk.
“No one benefits from divisive and polarizing speech.”
