The exposure of human rights violations in Qatar’s construction business in relation to the FIFA World Cup 2022 has put the FIFA, an organisation with a profound commitment to CSR, under immense international public pressure. As the FIFA is struggling to be proactive and meet the expectations of society, this research paper aims to serve as a guideline for the FIFA how to evaluate this situation and to demonstrate the necessity of implementing measures.
The reports of renowned, international, non-governmental organisations deliver proof of severe human rights violations and inadequate protection of workers. The analysis from an ethical standpoint comes to the conclusion that the inevitability to act in this situation is justified. Therefore, the implementation of a four-step approach is suggested, which pursues the improvement of working conditions and the reestablishment of FIFA’s reputation and credibility. Further research could focus upon the analysis of approaches to HRM practices in Qatar by other internationally, operating companies.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1 Background
1.2 Purpose
1.3 Structure
2. Theoretical Background
2.1 Business Ethics
2.2 Corporate Social Responsibility
2.3. The Qatari perspective
3. Methodology
3.1. Types of research
3.2. Materials
4. Results
5. Discussion
6. Recommendations
7. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This paper examines the ethical dilemma faced by FIFA regarding human rights violations in Qatar's construction sector for the 2022 World Cup. It aims to determine, through ethical theory, whether FIFA is obligated to take proactive measures to improve working conditions and protect its own reputation and credibility.
- Application of normative ethical theories to business decision-making.
- Evaluation of human rights and labor conditions in the context of the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
- Assessment of FIFA's corporate social responsibility (CSR) obligations.
- Analysis of stakeholder influence on organizational behavior.
- Formulation of a strategic approach for FIFA to address labor rights issues.
Excerpt from the Book
2.1 Business Ethics
Gupta (2014, p.107) defines ethics “as a collection of principles of right conduct that shape the decisions people or organizations make.” As ethical issues that arise in modern business can be very complex and dynamic, it is often very difficult to determine right and wrong conduct (Fisher & Lovell, 2009). The morality, which is characterized by the norms, beliefs and values of individuals or organizations rationalises ethics (Crane & Matten, 2010). Hence, determining between right and wrong is always dependent upon the morality of the involved individual or organizations. Relating this to business situations, it can be noted that ethics in business focuses upon whether a specific practice or conduct is morally acceptable or not. In order to provide ethical standards for employees, most international companies define their own code of conduct (Torrington, Hall, Taylor & Atkinson, 2008).
Common business situations are always influenced by individual and situational factors, nevertheless, normative ethical theories seek to provide rules and principles for what is right and wrong in every business situation (Beauchamp & Bowie, 1997). Among normative ethical theories, two types of theories concerning the rightness and wrongness of actions can be identified: consequentialism and non-consequentialism.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Outlines the background of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and states the paper's purpose to evaluate FIFA’s ethical responsibilities regarding human rights violations.
2. Theoretical Background: Defines essential concepts including business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and the unique cultural and labor dynamics in Qatar.
3. Methodology: Details the qualitative research approach based on reports from international non-governmental organizations regarding working conditions in Qatar.
4. Results: Summarizes the recurring findings of human rights violations, including poor housing, deceptive recruitment, and restrictions on movement.
5. Discussion: Applies consequentialist and non-consequentialist ethical frameworks to evaluate FIFA's potential actions and responsibilities.
6. Recommendations: Proposes a four-step approach for FIFA to improve labor conditions and protect its credibility without changing the event venue.
7. Conclusion: Synthesizes the analysis, concluding that FIFA has a responsibility to act, and suggests avenues for future research.
Keywords
FIFA, Qatar 2022, World Cup, Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, Human Rights, Labor Rights, Kafala System, Stakeholder Management, Consequentialism, Non-consequentialism, HRM, Migration, Accountability, Sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research paper?
The paper evaluates the ethical challenges FIFA faces concerning documented human rights violations within Qatar's construction industry, which is heavily involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup.
What are the core themes addressed in the analysis?
Key themes include business ethics, the application of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), international labor standards, and the influence of stakeholders on global sports organizations.
What is the central research question?
The research seeks to determine if FIFA is ethically compelled to take proactive measures to address labor abuses in Qatar and how they might do so while maintaining their reputation.
Which methodology is employed in this study?
The study utilizes a qualitative research methodology, analyzing reports from international non-governmental organizations, such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, published between 2011 and 2014.
What topics are covered in the main body of the work?
The main body covers the theoretical frameworks of ethics (consequentialism vs. non-consequentialism), the specific labor context in Qatar (including the "kafala" system), and recommended strategic actions for FIFA.
Which keywords best describe this research?
Relevant keywords include FIFA, Qatar 2022, Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, Human Rights, Labor Rights, and the Kafala system.
How does the "kafala" system influence HRM practices in Qatar?
The "kafala" system ties a migrant worker's legal and economic status to a specific employer or "sponsor," which creates an imbalance of power and potential for abuse, as documented in the paper.
What specific four-step approach is recommended to FIFA?
The approach includes: acquiring written agreements from companies regarding labor standards, addressing rights issues with Qatari authorities, requesting full disclosure of violations, and publicizing guarantees for migrant worker protection.
- Quote paper
- Julius Ohnesorge (Author), 2014, The Qatary Predicament. A critical evaluation of FIFA’s prominent ethical dilemma, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/352821
