The upcoming World Cup in Qatar has increasingly focused on women’s rights and the LGBTQ community. Human rights groups criticize the emirate. The question arose: how will Qatar deal with criticism and fans during the World Cup?
The Emir of Qatar calmed down – again and again. In the run-up to the World Cup, he repeatedly repeated that “everyone is welcome”. Also LGBTQ people. However, Tamim bin Hamad al Thani (42) also said: “We expect respect for our culture.”
That leaves room for speculation. It was difficult to predict how strict the Qatari authorities will be during the men’s World Cup.
Rainbow flag is tolerated
This week, a nine-page document was leaked to Blick. It is an instruction for police and security personnel. And of course it regulates how to deal with fans. It negotiates things that seem normal to us in the West.
For example, the document states: “People who carry the rainbow flag or other flags with a sexual identity will not be approached, arrested or prosecuted.” The same goes for people who publicly protest or display critical banners. It also reads, “Women will not be reported if they report rape, sexual harassment, or violence.” Under the directive, fans are also allowed to stay in the same hotel room, regardless of gender or marital status.
The document also answers questions about the dress code: Fans walking around in Thawb, Qatari national dress or other costumes should not be approached or arrested. Only viewers who undress to reveal intimate body parts may be asked to put the clothes back on.
Zero tolerance for alcohol
Fan chants in the streets or shopping centers are tolerated. Only those who sing loudly in residential areas should be warned. What, on the other hand, is not tolerated at all: sexual intimidation, racism, violence among fans. It is also noted that no alcohol is allowed to be imported into the country. Anyone who illegally sells alcohol will face criminal charges or may even be expelled from the country.
It is not clear who exactly wrote the document. However, it is likely an agreement between FIFA and the Qatar Safety & Security Operations Committee. When asked, FIFA said: “Fifa is not commenting on this document.” However, a link in the document leads to an independent page that offers the opportunity to report potential incidents of human rights violations related to the World Cup to FIFA.