As the 2034 FIFA World Cup vote nears, human rights experts are calling for a critical examination of Saudi Arabia's bid to host the event. This call for scrutiny follows precedents set by previous international sporting events, such as the Olympics, where human rights concerns were prominent, and many believe lessons from past events should be learned.

In 2008, the Beijing Olympics were marred by numerous human rights violations. Chinese authorities clamped down on dissent, detaining activists and restricting media freedom. The Chinese government faced accusations of harsh crackdowns on Tibetan and Uighur minorities, with reports of widespread repression. Additionally, thousands of residents were forcibly evicted from their homes to make way for Olympic infrastructure, often with inadequate compensation.

The Sochi Winter Olympics in 2014 also faced significant controversies. Many residents were displaced to construct Olympic venues, often without fair compensation. Reports surfaced of migrant workers being exploited, with poor working conditions, withheld wages, and lack of legal protections. The construction for the Olympics caused significant environmental damage, raising concerns among environmental groups and local communities.

Even eight years ago, the Rio 2016 Olympics highlighted further issues. Many residents in the city were forcibly removed from their homes to accommodate Olympic facilities. There were numerous reports of police violence in favelas (slums), particularly against poor and marginalised communities. The economic impact on the city was severe, with long-term debt and abandoned infrastructure posing ongoing challenges.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, delayed to 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, were not without criticism either. The decision to proceed with the Games amid the pandemic faced backlash, with concerns over health risks to athletes, staff, and the local population. Issues were also raised about the treatment and conditions of volunteers and workers, who faced long hours and inadequate compensation.

These historical precedents underline the importance of holding host countries accountable for their human rights records. The Olympics, often seen as a symbol of global unity and peace, have shown that without rigorous scrutiny, the promise of sportsmanship can be tainted by the reality of human rights abuses.

Saudi Arabia's bid for the 2034 World Cup is under intense scrutiny due to the country's human rights record. Critics cite Saudi Arabia’s track record on freedom of expression and assembly, treatment of prisoners and migrant workers, and male guardianship laws that limit personal freedoms for women. It comes after the previous controversy surrounding migrant workers at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Despite recent efforts to modernise and improve its international image, Saudi Arabia, who hope to host the Women's World Cup in 2035, continues to face criticism for its treatment of dissidents, the rights of women, and its use of capital punishment. Women in the Gulf State have seen some improvements in recent years, such as the lifting of the ban on driving and increased participation in the workforce. However, systemic issues persist, including the male guardianship system, which severely restricts women's autonomy.

Saudi Arabia has consistently said it is changing fast as part of the Vision 2030 program to modernise the kingdom’s economy and society, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Hosting more sports and entertainment events is key to the program's strategy to reduce dependence on oil riches.

FIFA, as the governing body of world football, has a responsibility to ensure that its events do not exacerbate human rights violations. The decision to award the World Cup to a particular nation is not just about the ability to build stadiums and manage logistics; it is also a statement about that nation's values and respect for human dignity. 

Human rights organisations are calling on FIFA to adopt a more rigorous vetting process, similar to the recommendations made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in recent years. The IOC has begun to incorporate human rights assessments into its selection process, learning from past controversies to avoid future pitfalls.

The experiences of the Olympics provide valuable lessons for FIFA. When selecting a host nation, it is crucial to ensure that the potential host country’s human rights record is thoroughly evaluated, including issues related to freedom of expression, labour rights, and the treatment of minorities and vulnerable populations. Engaging with local and international human rights organisations can help gain a deeper understanding of the on-the-ground realities and potential risks associated with hosting the event.

Establishing independent bodies to monitor and report on human rights conditions before, during, and after the event can hold the host nation accountable. Mandating that host countries commit to specific human rights improvements as a condition of hosting the event, with clear consequences for failing to meet these commitments, is essential.

As the vote for the 2034 World Cup approaches, FIFA has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to human rights and set a new standard for future sporting events. By learning from the past and taking proactive steps, football's main governing body can ensure that the World Cup is not only a celebration of football but also a beacon of respect for human dignity.