Labor unions have filed a formal complaint urging the International Labour Organization (ILO) to investigate alleged abuse and exploitation of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, the host of the 2034 World Cup. The filing outlines concerns such as wage theft, long working hours, and mistreatment under the country’s kafala system. Saudi officials cite recent reforms and a new agreement with the ILO as signs of progress. Labor advocates argue those changes are largely cosmetic and that the continued lack of union rights or independent oversight leaves workers vulnerable. The complaint casts doubt on Saudi Arabia’s commitment to labor protections amid its massive World Cup infrastructure push.
See "Global Trade Unions Call For Investigation Into Migrant Worker Abuse In Saudi Arabia, Host Of 2034 World Cup", Samindra Kunti, Forbes, June 5, 2025