World Cup fans could bring political tensions to quiet Qatar

"Qatar is a devoutly apolitical place, with speech and assembly heavily restricted and a large population of foreign workers who could lose their livelihoods if they cause a stir."

"Foreign workers are barred from forming unions and have no political rights. At least 60 workers were arrested in August for staging a protest over unpaid wages"

"Qatar has already faced criticism in public forums over its criminalization of homosexuality"

Really sounds like a choice place to hold an international sports event. love how these sporting bodies (FIFA, IOC) just ignore blatant human rights violations to line their pockets s/

Qatar is a devoutly apolitical place

Who writes this? Nowhere is "apolitical". The fact that dissent is minimised is a political act in itself.

"Apolitical." Ha ha.

Still, within the limits of their culture, Qatar seems to be handling this as best as they can. Perhaps the experience will lead to positive changes.

I was curious about Qatari music. This is an interesting blend of traditional and modern: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jep6KZFHN6o&list=PL39kaf8eCmKD_VmXp7E6l9qMF85sQEN37

One of the richest countries in the world and they mandate a minimum wage of $275. How generous.

The real culprits here are the corrupt and venal football authorities who chose Qatar in the first place.

The HEADLINE is a "given"

It's not a matter of "IF" it's a matter of Over-Reaction.

They will have German, Dutch, Italian AND ENGLISH fans all together in the same tiny city of Doha. No alcohol will help but the potential for trouble of the old fashioned type should not be overlooked.

They will have German, Dutch, Italian AND ENGLISH fans all together

What will the Italian fans be doing there?

England fans will find whatever alcohol there is, legal or otherwise - or brew it - drink all of it, get absolutely bladdered, moon the locals and pick a fight with rival fans. This will turn into a riot that will trash the place.

I don't think the Qataris really thought this through. Maybe a trip to a Liverpool/Man City game would have been helpful.

quote: What will the Italian fans be doing there?

They will be getting into trouble on the beach and in the dunes, because (according to the article) all consensual sex is banned in Qatar ['Separate laws prescribe up to seven years for anyone who “copulates” with a man or woman over the age of 16 "without compulsion, duress or ruse.”']

TL;DR: Just watch it on the telly.

quote: What will the Italian fans be doing there?

They will be getting into trouble on the beach and in the dunes, because (according to the article) all consensual sex is banned in Qatar ['Separate laws prescribe up to seven years for anyone who “copulates” with a man or woman over the age of 16 "without compulsion, duress or ruse.”']

So, the Italian fans will be going to the Qatar World Cup to go to the beaches?