Friday 18-11-2022 - 13:30

Edge Hill Students' Union Bar will limit its broadcasting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. 

 

Beginning Sunday 20 November, people around the world will tune in to the prestigious football event, hosted this year in Qatar. We will screen a selection of matches, including the England group stage games.

 

We understand Qatar's hosting of this event has caused rightful upset and distress to many. Human rights violations are commonplace in the country. Workers have very little workplace protection, with more than 6,500 migrant workers dying since the nation was first awarded hosting rights. Women are treated as second class citizens and are required to seek permission from a male guardian should they require basic healthcare. Meanwhile, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is rife. Same-sex intercourse punishable by a seven year prison sentence, and queer identities are censored in all media. 

 

As your Students' Union, our vision is to create an environment that encourages inclusivity, celebrates diversity, and empowers all students. As such, we cannot in good conscience support Qatar and its hosting of the FIFA World Cup. We will not show any games featuring the Qatar football team. 

 

In solidarity with our LGBTQ+ and women students, we will also be fundraising for a selection of human rights charities. During World Cup screenings at SU Bar & Venue, an optional 30 pence charity charge will be available to apply to all drinks purchases. All money raised from this additional charge will be donated to All Out, Hope For Justice and Women for Refugee Women.

 

Jack Richardson, Arts & Sciences President

Doreen Morrin, Health, Social Care & Medicine President

Ben Broadhurst, Education President