A group of United Nations experts has urged the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) and Europe’s football association UEFA to suspend Israel from international football competitions due to accusations of committing genocide in Gaza. The experts argue that national teams representing states that commit massive human rights violations can and should be suspended, citing the suspension of Russia after its invasion of Ukraine as a precedent.
The experts’ call comes after a UN Commission of Inquiry reported that “genocide is occurring in Gaza” and that Israel is to blame. They emphasize that FIFA and UEFA have a legal and moral duty to take all possible measures to stop the genocide in Gaza. The experts also stress that countries hosting international organizations and sporting competitions with Israel must not “remain neutral in the face of genocide”.
This development is part of a growing campaign to pressure FIFA and UEFA into taking action against Israel. The “Game Over Israel” campaign, launched recently, calls for a boycott of Israeli football teams and players until Israel’s participation in international football is suspended. The campaign has gained support from high-profile figures, including former footballers Eric Cantona and Gary Lineker, who have denounced the double standards enjoyed by Israel.
The UN experts’ statement highlights the need for FIFA and UEFA to uphold international human rights law and prevent further human rights abuses. By suspending Israel from international football, FIFA and UEFA can help to pressure the Israeli government to cease its alleged genocidal actions in Gaza.
