د . إAEDSRر . س

Qatar Set To Confiscate Rainbow Flags To ‘Protect’ Supporters. How Badly Will This Taint World Cup?

Article Featured Image

The World Cup is set to start today, but many people have said they are struggling to get World Cup Fever. This could be for a number of reasons, such as that it’s the first-ever World Cup being held in the winter and it’s being held in a country with zero football culture and heritage.

However, another massive factor that is tainting the tournament is the controversy surrounding LGBTIQ+ rights in host nation Qatar.

LGBTIQ+ supporters have been invited to support their teams at the tournament, but with a caveat – they are unable to bring any symbols regarding gay pride such as rainbow flags, which will be confiscated if found in stadiums.

Qatar has stated that this will be done in order to “protect” fans from prosecution, abuse and harassment from others. It’s important to preface by saying homosexuality is a crime in most Muslim nations such as Qatar, therefore the country would view any symbols or actions to be not only disrespectful but possibly also illegal.

Some countries taking part in the tournament seem to be ready to go against the wishes of both Qatar and FIFA. Ten European nations – the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Wales, England and France – are supporting the OneLove campaign, which was set up to show support for LGBTIQ+ rights.

These countries will have their respective captains wearing a distinct armband in protest and support of LGBTIQ+ rights. Poland turned down the offer, with captain Robert Lewandowski opting instead to wear an armband donning the colours of Ukraine in support of the neighbouring country.

In recent days, France captain Hugo Lloris has also hinted at the possibility that he would not wear the armband at the tournament. He stated that while France welcomes foreigners, they want them to follow the rules and respect the culture of France, therefore he would the same in Qatar.

So what does that mean for Malta?

In Malta, the local population generally asks for the same type of treatment when foreigners come to Malta and people can be quite hostile and unwelcoming to immigrants who struggle to adapt to the Maltese culture and norms.

Of course, it’s important to distinguish the difference between adapting to cultures and not being accepting of human rights. However, one can’t help but notice the fact that most countries would ask for the same treatment and respect in their country.

The main point one could make is whether or not global events and mass gatherings should be given more priority than the cultures and norms of the country the event is taking place in. To each their own, but human rights should always be a priority.

Are you looking forward to the World Cup?

READ NEXT: Watch: Fifa Boss Accuses West Of Hypocrisy Over Qatar, Claims This 'Will Be The Best World Cup Ever'

You may also love

View All