The Saudi Arabian Minister of Sport, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, announced the start of an investigation into the death of a worker at the construction site for the 2034 World Cup stadium. He stated that local authorities are treating the matter `seriously` amidst growing concerns regarding the rights of laborers in the Gulf nation.
Muhammad Arshad, a Pakistani foreman in his mid-30s, tragically died on March 12 at the Aramco Stadium site in Al Khobar, according to reports from The Guardian. Arshad fell from an elevated section of the construction area, marking the first reported fatality connected to the construction of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. While the official hosting rights were awarded in December, FIFA`s prior decision in October 2023 had effectively designated Saudi Arabia as the host nation well in advance of the formal announcement.
Minister Al-Faisal emphasized the gravity with which they approach every incident. Speaking on Sunday before the Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix, as reported by ESPN, he stated that each event prompts an investigation to determine the cause. He acknowledged the unfortunate reality of construction-related accidents and affirmed their commitment to preventing future occurrences at Aramco Stadium. He added that they are working closely with contractors to implement robust safety systems and ensure adherence to their global commitments regarding worker safety.
Human rights organizations have voiced strong criticism of FIFA`s decision to grant Saudi Arabia the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup. Their concerns particularly focus on the potential impact of construction projects on both migrant workers and local communities.
In a joint statement issued in December, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and other groups highlighted the extensive evidence of migrant worker exploitation, racial discrimination, suppression of peaceful activism, discrimination against women and LGBTI individuals, and forced evictions for state projects. They warned that without immediate and substantial reforms, the 2034 World Cup risks being marred by widespread repression, discrimination, and exploitation.
The circumstances surrounding Arshad`s death have raised concerns about whether his employer, the Belgian construction firm Besix Group, has complied with Saudi law. Reports indicate that in the days following his death, Arshad`s family, including his three young sons, had not received legally mandated compensation. Furthermore, there are allegations that workers at the Aramco Stadium were instructed to delete any videos or images related to Arshad`s death and to refrain from discussing the incident.
Muhammad Bashir, Arshad`s father, expressed the family`s devastation to The Guardian last month, stating that their world had collapsed. He emphasized the long-term consequences for the family, as Arshad was their sole provider, and they would now be responsible for the children`s living and educational expenses, striving to meet their needs.
These concerns about working conditions in Saudi Arabia arise shortly after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where numerous migrant workers died during stadium construction. While Qatari officials reported only three work-related deaths and 37 non-work-related deaths, estimates suggest the actual figure may be considerably higher. A 2021 report by The Guardian estimated over 6,500 worker deaths during Qatar`s World Cup stadium construction, although the precise number remains uncertain.
Minister Al-Faisal asserts that Saudi Arabian authorities have learned valuable lessons from the Qatar World Cup experience.
Al-Faisal stated that they have engaged with Qatari officials to understand their experiences and challenges. He mentioned ongoing communication with both Qatar and FIFA to determine necessary actions and prioritize worker safety. He emphasized that ensuring worker safety is a crucial mandate and a top priority, given the significant impact of this issue witnessed in Qatar.
FIFA has not yet issued a statement regarding Arshad`s death.
