UN experts have called on FIFA and UEFA to suspend Israel from international football. The experts said this step is necessary due to the ongoing genocide in the occupied Palestinian territory.
“The United Nations Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory has concluded that Israel is committing genocide,” the experts said. “International law requires every country to act against genocide, not ignore it.”
The experts highlighted that sporting bodies must not treat human rights violations as normal. “Sporting platforms cannot be used to normalise atrocities,” they added.
States hosting international competitions or participating in matches with Israel must consider their own legal obligations. “National teams representing countries that commit massive human rights violations can and should face suspension,” the experts said.
They clarified that any boycott targets Israel as a state, not individual players. “Players should not face discrimination due to their nationality,” the experts stressed.
International sports associations like FIFA and UEFA are bound by human rights law. UN experts noted civil society campaigns urging these organisations to act against Israel.
“FIFA and UEFA must avoid aiding Israel’s illegal occupation,” the experts said. “Action is needed now to uphold international law and stop the genocide in Gaza.”
