Amnesty International has accused Fifa and the Qatari authorities of grossly neglecting the issue of “pattern of abuse against migrant workers” at the World Cup. According to Amnesty’s new investigation report, migrant workers endured grueling 12-hour shifts for up to 38 consecutive days without any time off. The report also reveals that some workers, who were hired as security guards and marshals, had to pay illegal recruitment fees that were never reimbursed and were denied promised overtime pay and bonuses.
Amnesty states that the workers reported their mistreatment through the World Cup grievances hotline but no action was taken. In one case, a manager even threatened to fire a worker and others as retaliation for complaining. These findings have raised concerns about the welfare of migrant workers employed by the Qatar-based company Teyseer Security Services at World Cup sites, including the Khalifa International Stadium, fan zones, and the Corniche.
The investigation was based on interviews with 22 men from Nepal, Kenya, and Ghana. More than a third of them reported working 12-hour shifts every day and laboring for 38 consecutive days without a day off, which is in violation of Qatari labor laws. All 22 workers accused Teyseer’s representatives and recruitment agents of making false promises, like offering senior roles and additional monthly income of £220.
In response to the report, hundreds of workers protested in Qatar in January, demanding unpaid overtime and bonuses before their contracts ended. Although both Teyseer and the government promised compensation, this pledge was not fulfilled.
Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International’s head of economic and social justice, criticized the World Cup organizers for their failure to address worker issues and implement adequate measures to prevent labor abuses. He stated that despite six months passing since the World Cup, Fifa has not effectively investigated the matter or offered remedies, and workers have been waiting too long for justice.
Teyseer denied any wrongdoing and emphasized its adherence to labor laws and human rights. The company expressed shock at the allegations and assured that all employees were paid appropriately for their work. However, Fifa confirmed that the Supreme Committee workers’ welfare department had received complaints from Teyseer workers and worked with the company to address them.
Fifa acknowledged the differing perceptions surrounding the issue but stressed that rectifying the adverse impacts on workers is primarily the responsibility of the companies involved and the Qatari authorities.
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