Contradicting Previous Report of 40 Deaths
Qatar Government Avoids Response
[Asia Economy Reporter Myunghwan Lee] The Secretary-General of the Qatar World Cup Organizing Committee has sparked controversy by stating that 400 to 500 migrant workers have died at World Cup construction sites.
Secretary-General Hassan Al Thawadi said in an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, released on the 29th (Korean time), when asked, "How many foreign workers do you think have actually died?" that "I do not know the exact number, but it is estimated to be between 400 and 500." This statement contradicts the Qatar government's announcement that only 40 migrant workers died between 2014 and 2021.
AP News reported, "Qatar has so far stated that 37 workers died from non-work-related incidents such as heart attacks, and only 3 workers died at construction sites."
However, the Qatari government immediately avoided responding to Secretary-General Thawadi's interview comments. The news agency stated, "We asked the Qatari government and the organizing committee about the claim that 400 to 500 migrant workers died, but they did not respond."
Qatar has faced criticism for subjecting numerous foreign workers to harsh labor conditions while preparing for this World Cup. They introduced a minimum wage system paying migrant workers who perform intense labor $275 per month (approximately 370,000 KRW) and created inhumane systems such as the 'Kafala system,' which requires employer approval to change jobs.
The British media outlet The Guardian reported last year that over 6,500 workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, and other countries have died in the 10 years since Qatar won the World Cup bid.
AP News pointed out, "Secretary-General Thawadi's remarks raise questions about the Qatari government's announcements," adding, "Criticism from human rights organizations is expected to grow louder."
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