While more than a million soccer fans are expected in Qatar for the World Cup, taking place from November 20 until December 18, this sporting event is swimming in controversy.
Thousands of foreign workers have died since 2010 during the construction of the eight stadiums.
“I find it extremely unfortunate that the government not only does not have the courage to boycott the games diplomatically, but not only does it lack the courage of its positions,” said Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe, spokesperson for the BQ. in matters of human rights.
The Trudeau government has issued recommendations for Canadians traveling to Qatar.
Dressing modestly and avoiding displays of affection in public are some of her tips. He also recalls that Qatar prohibits relationships between people of the same sex.
Amine will fly Sunday night to Qatar. He has saved money over the past year for the event.
“Yes, there are things that are a bit controversial, that bother me, that don’t go with my values. I am aware of these things, but at the same time, I am mainly there for a sporting event, for soccer. And that’s for sure what I’m going to focus on, ”explains Amine Ben Arous.
“I’m hesitant to watch the soccer World Cup because it’s a conflict of values. There are the values of sport, which are health, exercise, but there are also the values of equality in humanity, ”thinks a parent, who watches his children play soccer, in a stadium located in Laval.
“A good question that I asked myself. It is certain that there are things that have happened, I find that excessively unfortunate. Maybe it would have been better if it was somewhere else, ”believes another.
“It’s too late at this time. You have to give that to Qatar. But I’m going to watch it like anyone else. But my opinion is that it should never have taken place there”, reacted another father.
“It’s not up to us as amateurs either to abandon our team who goes there, who decides to participate,” said a mother present.
Canada has not participated in the World Cup for 40 years. Despite the controversies, these parents will encourage the Canadian team.