LGBT people hesitant to travel to Qatar for FIFA World Cup

Qatar – The LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, And Transgender) community is hesitant to travel to Qatar for FIFA World Cup because same-sex relationships are directly criminalized under the laws in the country.

The community is concerned about the protection of their rights in Qatar. Recently, an international grouping of 16 organizations focused on LGBT rights issued eight action points to the FIFA and the local organizing committee for the safety of the LGBT community.

The Constitution of Qatar criminalizes same-sex sexual activity

The Constitution of Qatar designates Islam as the state religion. Muslim law is strictly enforced in Qatar. Same-sex sexual activity is prohibited under Sharia law. The country operates an interpretation of Sharia law, so it criminalizes same-sex sexual activity.

Earlier, there have been some reports of discrimination and violence being committed against LGBT people.

Related Posts

Safety of LGBT people

The 16 organisations asked the tournament organiser to repeal laws which target the LGBT community. The group asked the tournament organisers to provide safety guarantees to the community and guarantee the right of entry to Qatar.

The eight action points also demanded the right to free expression and ensuring that there is no censorship or ban on the discussion about LGBT issues.

Hardships faced by LGBT people in Qatar

In 2014, a gay man named Mohammed was arrested for alleged same-sex conduct. He was detained for weeks. He also endured verbal abuse and sexual harassment by police officers.

In 2021, he resigned himself to a life of discretion. He decided to dress in a masculine style and not post anything about sexuality.

Recently, Lise Klaveness, a judge and former national team player, spoke about Qatar’s law which criminalises homosexuality. Klaveness, who is gay, said in a six-minute speech, “There is no room for hosts that cannot legally guarantee the safety and respect of LGBTQ+ people.”

As per reports, the government has assured prospective visitors it will welcome LGBT tourists and fans will also be free to fly the rainbow flag at the games. However, Mohammed is afraid because he cannot express his sexuality openly.

About G.Morrison

Discover the world of workers' rights through the lens of G. Morrison. With a commitment to unbiased reporting, G. Morrison crafts narratives that unveil the human stories behind labor struggles, advocating for a fair and just global workplace.

G.Morrison

Discover the world of workers' rights through the lens of G. Morrison. With a commitment to unbiased reporting, G. Morrison crafts narratives that unveil the human stories behind labor struggles, advocating for a fair and just global workplace.

Recent Posts

History is made today: Colombia passes bill to eradicate child marriage

Colombian politicians recently approved a bill to ban child marriage in the country after 17 years of campaigning by rights…

November 16, 2024

Mozambique election protests: Rights experts raise alarm about repression of demonstrators

UN independent human rights experts are calling on authorities in Mozambique to prevent and end repression of protesters after the…

November 16, 2024

First high-profile person to be affected by CNN layoffs, Anchor Chris Wallace

As the network deals with a staffing crisis in the face of declining ratings, CNN anchor Chris Wallace was the…

November 16, 2024

Chicago’s Largest Migrant Shelter Closes as City Transitions to ‘One System Initiative’

Chicago City was able to record a transition regarding its migrant housing policy after the shutdown of its largest shelter…

November 16, 2024

Britain sees major migrant influx: Can Labour party find an effective solution?

Britain has seen the highest increase in migrant arrivals in 2023 - more than any other major economy across the…

November 15, 2024

France-Israel football match: Scuffles seen at Stade de France despite sparse attendance

Inside a sparsely attended Stade de France on Thursday for a France-Israel football match, some French fans booed the Israeli…

November 15, 2024

This website uses cookies.

Read More