FIFA Faces Criticism Over Saudi Arabia's Uncontested Bid for 2034 World Cup

Human rights groups warn of labor abuses tied to Saudi mega-projects, urging FIFA to demand reforms before confirming the host nation.

Saudi Arabia is the sole bidder for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, with a decision expected next week, raising concerns about labor and human rights abuses in the country.
Human Rights Watch released a report detailing widespread exploitation of migrant workers, including forced labor, wage theft, and unsafe working conditions on massive construction projects.
The report highlights the deaths of hundreds of migrant workers, many of which remain unexplained and uninvestigated, leaving families without compensation or support.
Critics argue FIFA has failed to ensure binding human rights commitments from Saudi Arabia, risking a repeat of controversies surrounding the 2022 Qatar World Cup preparations.
Saudi officials cite recent labor reforms as part of their Vision 2030 initiative, but rights groups claim enforcement gaps and systemic issues persist.