Human rights specialists from the United Nations have demanded that FIFA and UEFA ban Israel from international football competitions. The experts reference a UN Commission of Inquiry determination about genocide and an International Court of Justice decision from January 26, 2024. These officials argue that sporting organizations cannot ignore severe human rights breaches when their events normalize injustice. They emphasize that states face binding obligations to prevent and punish genocide at all times. The proposed sanctions would target Israel as a nation rather than affect individual athletes.
FIFA and UEFA must comply with international human rights law, as outlined in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Civil society organizations have launched campaigns demanding Israel's suspension from global competitions. The experts warn that FIFA risks legitimizing the unlawful occupation of Palestinian territory through continued participation. Private international sports bodies should not facilitate the maintenance of illegal territorial situations. These officials conclude that legal and moral obligations require immediate action to halt what they characterize as genocide in Gaza.
FIFA and UEFA must comply with international human rights law, as outlined in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Civil society organizations have launched campaigns demanding Israel's suspension from global competitions. The experts warn that FIFA risks legitimizing the unlawful occupation of Palestinian territory through continued participation. Private international sports bodies should not facilitate the maintenance of illegal territorial situations. These officials conclude that legal and moral obligations require immediate action to halt what they characterize as genocide in Gaza.
