Australia’s Socceroos have taken a public stand against the Qatar World Cup

Australia’s Socceroos have become the first team to take a public stand against next month’s World Cup hosts, Qatar.

In a video posted online, the team raise concerns about Qatar’s human rights record, particularly when it comes to migrant workers and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The 16 players take turns reading a collective statement, which was edited together into a three-minute video.

Goalkeeper Mat Ryan kicked it off, saying “There are universal values that should define football”. Adding, these values include “respect, dignity, trust and courage. When we represent our nation, we aspire to embody these values.”

“We are not experts. But we have listened to groups such as Amnesty, FIFA [and] the migrant workers based in Qatar.

“We have learned there has been progress made both on paper and in practice. The kafala system has largely been dismantled, working conditions have improved and a minimum wage has been established.

“Whilst the reforms established in Qatar are an important and welcomed step, their implementation remains inconsistent and requires improvement.

“As players, we fully support the rights of the LGBTI+ people, but in Qatar people are not free to love the person they choose. Addressing these issues is not easy and we don’t have all the answers.

“This must include establishing a migrants’ resource centre, effective remedy for those who have been denied their rights and the decriminalisation of all same-sex relationships.

“These are basic rights that should be afforded to all and will ensure continued progress in Qatar. This is how we can ensure a legacy that goes well beyond the final whistle of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.”

Football Australia releases unexpected statement

It comes as Football Australia also released a statement, declaring “the tournament has been associated with suffering for some migrant workers and their families and this cannot be ignored.”

“As the most multicultural, diverse, and inclusive sport in our country, we believe everyone should be able to feel safe and be their true authentic selves,” FA’s statement said.

“Whilst we acknowledge the highest levels of assurances given by HH Amir of Qatar and the President of FIFA that LGBTI+ fans will be safely welcomed in Qatar, we hope that this openness can continue beyond the tournament.”

A number of other western countries will also make public statements against Qatar’s human rights record when the tournament begins.

Denmark will wear single-colour “protest” jerseys manufactured by Hummel. They have also limited any commercial activity that promotes Qatar.

Players from a further nine European countries, including England, will sport “One Love” armbands. These protests against Qatar’s same-sex laws. This is despite the armbands not receiving approval from FIFA.

The World Cup will take place in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022.