NATIONS - Scandinavian football associations appeal to FIFA

The football associations of the Scandinavian countries have a clear appeal to FIFA: more pressure must be put on the government of Qatar. The upcoming world championship will be played in that country, but there is quite a bit of fuss about that organization. Human rights are allegedly being violated and working conditions are appalling. That has to stop, the countries jointly say.

The unions of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands believe that FIFA should come up with a substantive response about the conditions in the oil state after a report by Amnesty International. The human rights organization made no bones about it. Qatar is said to have conducted too few investigations into the cause of death of many young migrant workers for years. According to Amnesty, the many deaths were inseparable from the dramatic working conditions.

"We are very grateful that Amnesty is providing new knowledge that differs from the official figures and reports we receive from Qatar," DBU director Jakob Jensen of the Danish Football Association said on the official website. "We are continuing our critical dialogue with FIFA, the government in Qatar and other relevant parties to ensure improvements for migrant workers," said the director, who is supported by neighboring countries.

The upcoming world championship has caused a lot of discussion so far. Some football fans think that the Netherlands should boycott the tournament, if the Orange qualifies at all. Louis van Gaal was clear about the situation in the Middle East during his first press conference. "What I think about that? Do you think I don't mind? Of course I think it is very bad what is happening there. But the unions must unite. I also asked the KNVB and they told me that they are leading the way. But to ask the national coach every time, I think that goes a long way." The unions from Scandinavia have therefore now taken a first step.